THE LATEST NEWS FROM ITM, YOUR BUILDING SUPPLIES SPECIALIST
O 20 CT 26
ISSUE 127
Changes to the granny flats building consent exemption
BRANZ: What mould reveals about building performance
Codewords: Supervision - Getting it right as an LBP
Pricing: Put your own oxygen mask on first
05
07
09
13
INDUSTRY NEWS
Outstanding construction growth leading the economy out of the doldrums 03
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INDUSTRY NEWS
LBP NEWS
Outstanding construction growth leading the economy out of the doldrums
Stricter disciplinary penalties for licensed practitioners
GRANNY FLATS
LBP NEWS
Changes to the granny flats building consent exemption
Improving occupational licensing to help homeowners
BRANZ
ROOFING
What mould reveals about building performance
Polyglaze - bring outdoor spaces to life
CODEWORDS
CODEWORDS
Supervision: Getting it right as an LBP
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying: what designers need to know
03
05
07-08 09-11
ISSUE 127: OCTOBER 2026
In this issue 17
19
20
21
PRICING
ITM ANNIVERSARY
Put your own oxygen mask on first
13-14
35 years of ITM
23
LBP NEWS Builder fined for unlicensed work and using another’s licence
17
PROMOTIONS
Building Business contributes towards your LBP skills maintenance requirement. Log in to the LBP portal lbp.govt.nz and update your Skills Maintenance activities today. All prices exclude GST. Promotions are valid October 1st - November 30th, 2026, unless specified otherwise. Building Business is a magazine produced by ITM Support Office. For feedback or address updates contact: ITM Support Office, PO Box 101556, North Shore, Auckland. Email: buildingbusiness@itm.co.nz Ph: 09 415 2787
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NEW
Outstanding construction growth leading the economy out of the doldrums
While overall gross domestic product (GDP) in the
As residential construction gathers momentum,
June quarter nudged up just 0.2%, construction
its impact extends well beyond building sites,
increased 2.7%, its biggest quarterly rise since June
supporting demand for materials, machinery,
2023, with a significant part of that growth made
transport and a wide range of specialist trades and
up of residential building.
professional services.
When compared with other sectors in the
Time to celebrate?
economy, the stats are even more remarkable. Agriculture, forestry and fishing all experienced negative growth; transport, postal and warehousing fell 1.7%, while accommodation and food services dropped 3.8%. Infometrics economist Brad Olson described construction’s performance as one of the standout aspects of the figures, noting that the sector maintained solid growth despite rising costs.
Building momentum It’s been a long, hard slog for everyone over the last
Time to pop the champagne corks? Not quite. While the GDP stats and over 40,500 new homes consented in the year to June point to a positive future, economic conditions will remain challenging for residential builders. Economists expect growth to continue unevenly through the end of the year, with modest improvement forecast for 2027. Business and consumer confidence have risen slightly, but global events, fuel price spikes and rising interest rates will continue to pose risks.
18 months or so, coping with a spluttering economy,
That said, the construction sector has proved
stubborn inflation, and increasing uncertainty
remarkably resilient. The economic headwinds
recently about the situation in the Middle East.
and fuel spikes of the June quarter were expected
But the stats show builders have weathered the stormy times and emerged as significant drivers of economic growth. The figures suggest house building is not simply benefiting from an economic recovery – it is helping to drive it.
to weaken activity significantly as businesses and households cut spending. Instead, residential construction continued to expand.
3
INDUSTRY NEWS
It’s official. Construction is leading the way to growth in the economy, with increased building activity eclipsing every other sector.
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Changes to the granny flats building consent exemption Two changes have been made to the exemption conditions and take effect from October 8th, 2026.
What is changing? Certified composite structural building products can now be used This exemption change allows certified composite structural building products to be used. This includes some Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) systems and solid timber building systems. The building product will need to be used: ▶
within the scope and limitations of its registered product certificate (CodeMark), and
▶
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure compliance with the Building Code.
This change supports modern construction methods, including prefabricated and off-site manufactured homes, and gives people more options when designing and building a granny flat. Using existing water and drainage services With this exemption change you may be able to use existing water supply, wastewater and stormwater services when building a granny flat, rather than installing new systems. Using existing council or utility connections If your property is already connected to council or other utility provider (called a network utility operator (NUO) in the exemption), you may be able to use or modify those connections for a granny flat. The utility provider must agree that the existing connection is suitable. You do not need a building consent to make these changes. But you must get any approvals required by the utility provider.
Using existing on-site water and drainage systems If your property uses on-site systems, such as rainwater, wastewater treatment or stormwater disposal systems, you may be able to continue using them or upgrade them for your granny flat. The systems must have enough capacity and comply with the New Zealand Building Code. Installing a new on-site system If council or other utility services are not available, or cannot support an additional connection, you may be able to install a new on-site system for the granny flat.
Updated guidance available From October 8th, 2026, you can access updated granny flats guidance, quick guides and other supporting resources showing these changes. New foundations guidance available Guidance is now available to help homeowners, designers and builders understand foundation options that may be suitable for granny flats built under the building consent exemption. The guidance provides practical information to support planning and construction. Plan, design, build, and complete your granny flat with the help of these resources on the building.govt.nz website:
Guidance
Granny Flats Exemption Guidance December 2025
5 GRANNY FLATS
The changes allow more building products to be used under the exemption and make it easier to use existing water supply, wastewater and stormwater services. New guidance is also available to help homeowners and building professionals understand foundation options for granny flats built under the building consent exemption.
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What mould reveals about building performance BRANZ’s latest research demonstrates that mould is more than a moisture problem. It may be one of the clearest indicators that a home’s ventilation, heating, and building performance are not working together. BRANZ article written by Stephen McNeil and Vicki White
Homes are struggling to manage moisture While many of HEEP2’s findings reinforce what building scientists already know, they provide fresh evidence that moisture-related problems remain widespread in New Zealand homes. In addition to 48% of households reporting mould, 32% reported damp, and 75% experienced condensation during winter, conditions that are ideal for mould growth. Moisture is an unavoidable part of daily life. Every shower, pot of boiling pasta and load of washing adds moisture to the air. Drying a single load of washing indoors can generate up to 5 litres. What matters is how effectively that moisture is managed and, on almost every measure, Kiwi homes are coming up short.
7
Why cold homes are at greater risk One of HEEP2’s clearest findings was the role temperature plays in mould risk. Many homes at higher risk for mould and condensation do not necessarily have higher moisture levels; they are simply too cold. As air cools, its capacity to hold water vapour decreases, increasing the risk of moisture condensing on cold surfaces. Cold surfaces also increase local relative humidity (RH), promoting moisture absorption into linings and furnishings and significantly increasing the risk of mould growth. Measurements of indoor temperature and RH highlighted this effect, particularly in bedrooms overnight, where some of the lowest temperatures and highest RH levels were recorded. Over winter, three-quarters of bedroom measurements exceeded 60% RH and about one-fifth exceeded 75% RH – levels associated with an increased risk of mould growth.
CONTINUE >>
Kitchen and bathroom extraction are among the first lines of defence, removing moisture at the source. Only 52% of the homes studied had both working kitchen and bathroom extract ventilation vented to the outside. Just 13% had a whole-house ventilation system, and only 2% had a balanced system – generally the best-performing option.
Even something as simple as opening a window to remove moisture happens inconsistently. HEEP2 found that only 47% of households aired bedrooms daily, while 23% never opened a bathroom window during or after showering or bathing.
BRANZ
Despite decades of housing improvements, mould remains stubbornly common in New Zealand. BRANZ’s latest Household Energy End-use Project 2 (HEEP2) found visible mould in 48% of owneroccupied homes, one of the highest reported rates in the developed world.
8
Designing homes to manage moisture
BRANZ
These findings reinforce the importance of treating a house as an integrated system. Building performance depends on a range of factors such as insulation, airtightness, and thermal bridging – all of which influence how moisture behaves. A well-insulated home will help keep interior surfaces warmer, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming. Thermal bridges – cold paths through a building where heat escapes and surfaces cool – create localised cold spots, which can result in condensation and mould even when indoor temperatures and air moisture content are at acceptable levels. Eliminating thermal bridging is therefore a critical consideration in both building design and construction detailing.
Ventilation Ventilation remains a critical part of the picture, particularly as homes become more airtight. While improving airtightness helps retain heat and improve energy efficiency, it increases the need for ventilation to be carefully designed and managed. Mechanical systems can provide a more reliable way to manage indoor moisture, with balanced ventilation systems offering the added benefit of recovering heat while supplying fresh air.
still occur. Equally, a warm home without adequate ventilation can struggle to manage the moisture generated by everyday activities such as showering, cooking and drying clothes. Building performance influences both of these factors. Homes perform best when ventilation, heating, and building design work together. Mould is often the visible sign that one or more parts of that system are not working as they should.
More information The findings come from Household Energy End-use Project 2 (HEEP2), a nationwide study that monitored more than 300 owner-occupied homes, providing the most comprehensive picture of indoor moisture in New Zealand homes. The indoor moisture report is the second in a three-part series, following the indoor temperature report, with a report on household energy use to come. Scan here to download the full research report free from the BRANZ website.
Study report: SR512 [2026]
Household Energy End-use Project 2: Moisture in New Zealand homes
Using the warmth of the sun Design decisions matter, too. The home’s orientation, window placement, and external shading all influence how much warmth a house gains in winter. It can also help prevent hidden moisture problems. Warm, moisture-laden air can move into wall and roof cavities and condense on colder surfaces within the structure, creating interstitial moisture. BRANZ researchers are increasingly seeing these issues in roof spaces, highlighting the need to manage moisture throughout the building envelope, not just within the home. The lesson from HEEP2 is that there is no single fix for mould. Moisture can be removed from the air, but if a home remains cold, condensation and mould can
Vicki White, Andrew Pollard, Manfred Plagmann, Aidan Bennett-Reilly, Suzanne Jones, Steve McNeil
This article is from www.branz.co.nz - it was published in August 2026 and has been reproduced with permission from BRANZ.
Supervision: Getting it right as an LBP Codewords article provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Undertaking supervision is an important
In practice, supervision means more than simply
responsibility and should not be taken lightly.
being available by phone or occasionally visiting
Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) who
a site. The supervising LBP must actively assess
supervise building work are accountable for
the work, the workers involved, and the level of
ensuring the work is completed competently and
oversight required.
complies with the building consent and Building Code requirements. Effective supervision protects building quality, supports workforce development, and helps maintain public confidence in the LBP scheme. The process of providing supervision is so important that we have a practice note to help LBP supervisors and those who are being supervised to have clarity on their roles, responsibilities and reporting obligations. The practice note sets out clear expectations for acceptable conduct and behaviour and establishes clear standards for the industry to follow. Practice note supervision [PDF, 1.6 MB]
Meaning of supervision The Building Act 2004 provides that ‘Supervise’, in relation to building work, means provide control or direction and oversight of the building work to an work: ▶
is performed competently, and
▶
complies with the building consent under which it is carried out.
Who can supervise Restricted Building Work? Only LBPs can carry out or supervise Restricted Building Work (RBW). They may only supervise work that falls within their own licence class and competence. For example, a Carpentry LBP can supervise nonlicensed workers undertaking carpentry RBW, but cannot supervise bricklaying or blocklaying RBW unless appropriately licensed. Site licence holders cannot supervise RBW. Their role focuses on project coordination and management, not responsibility for restricted work. An important principle of the LBP scheme is individual accountability. An LBP cannot supervise another LBP carrying out work within the same licence class, as each licensed practitioner is individually responsible for the work they undertake and for providing their own Record of Work (RoW) or Certificate of Work (CoW).
CONTINUE >>
extent that is sufficient to ensure that the building
9
CODEWORDS
Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) who supervise building work are responsible for its quality and compliance. This article explains supervision requirements, accountability, and how to provide effective oversight.
10
Choosing the right level of supervision The appropriate level of supervision depends on
Remote supervision still requires the LBP to ensure compliance and quality outcomes.
CODEWORDS
several factors, including:
Common mistakes in supervision
▶
complexity of the work
Many complaints and disciplinary matters arise
▶
skill level of the worker
not because supervision was absent, but because
▶
previous experience working together
it was inadequate for the circumstances. Common
▶
site conditions
mistakes include:
▶
communication challenges
Assuming presence equals supervision
▶
the number and location of sites being
Simply being listed as the supervising LBP or
supervised.
making occasional visits to a site is not sufficient.
The level of supervision should be reassessed whenever work activities change. The Practice Note identifies three recognised approaches: 1.
Direct supervision
2.
General supervision
3.
Remote supervision
Direct supervision Direct supervision involves working closely with the person being supervised while maintaining visual contact or remaining within earshot. This is typically required for: ▶
inexperienced workers
▶
apprentices learning a task for the first time, or
▶
complex and high-risk work.
General supervision General supervision is the most common approach.
Supervision requires active oversight, direction and verification that work is being carried out correctly. Using the wrong level of supervision A common error is providing general or remote supervision to workers who are inexperienced or undertaking unfamiliar tasks. Complex work performed by low-skilled workers typically requires direct supervision. Relying on Council inspections for quality control Building Consent Authority inspections are not a substitute for supervision. The LBP is responsible for ensuring work is correct before inspection rather than relying on inspectors to identify problems. Failing to reassess risks Supervision requirements can change throughout a project. A worker may be competent at one task but require additional guidance when moving to a more complex stage of construction. Failing to reassess supervision needs can lead to
Under general supervision, the LBP:
errors and non-compliance.
▶
remains on site
Supervising beyond capacity
▶
periodically checks the work
There is no legal limit on the number of sites an
▶
provides direction when required, and
LBP may supervise. However, taking responsibility
▶
ensures quality standards are being achieved.
for too many projects can result in insufficient
This approach is suitable for workers who have already demonstrated competence in the task being undertaken. Remote supervision Remote supervision may be appropriate where experienced and trusted workers are carrying out work on another site, provided there are: ▶
clear communication channels
▶
planned site visits, and
▶
identified stages where the supervisor must be present.
oversight, missed issues, and reduced quality assurance. Supervisors must ensure they remain within their capacity to provide effective supervision. Poor communication Language barriers, unclear instructions, or inadequate documentation can contribute to onsite mistakes. Supervisors should ensure workers understand expectations, drawings, specifications and consent requirements.
Inadequate documentation Records of Work and Certificates of Work must accurately describe the work carried out or supervised. Poor records can create difficulties years later when questions arise about responsibility or compliance.
Codewords Quiz 1. According to the Building Act 2004, supervision means providing enough control, direction, and oversight to ensure building work is: a) Completed on time and within budget b) Performed competently and complies with the building consent c) Approved by the Building Consent Authority d) Undertaken by apprentices only
Consequences of poor supervision Indicators of poor supervision often include: ▶
failed inspections
2. Who can supervise Restricted Building Work (RBW)?
▶
poor workmanship
a) Any experienced construction worker
▶
rework
b) A Site Licence holder
▶
safety issues
▶
missed project milestones
c) An LBP supervising work within their own licence class and competence
▶
disorganised sites
▶
dissatisfied clients
d) A Building Consent Authority inspector
A supervising LBP is accountable for the compliance and quality of the work they supervise and record in each Record of Work submitted for a site. If that work does not comply with the building
3. Which supervision approach typically requires the supervisor to maintain visual contact or remain within earshot of the worker? a) Remote supervision
consent, building code or the supervision is negligent
b) General supervision
or incompetent, the LBP may face disciplinary
c) Direct supervision
proceedings before the Building Practitioners Board.
d) Site management supervision
Key takeaway
D DESIGN
EP EXTERNAL PLASTERING
Good supervision is about applying the right
level of control, direction and oversight for the circumstances.
S
BB
LBPs should carefully consider the complexity of SITE
BRICK &
BLOCK LAYING the work, the competence of those performing
it, and their own capacity to supervise effectively. When done well, supervision helps deliver
C developsF compliant, high-quality buildings, future tradespeople, and protects the integrity CARPENTRY FOUNDATIONS of the LBP scheme.
A
R
This article is relevant to ALL classes:
This article is from Codewords Issue 132. Log in to the LBP portal lbp.govt.nz (or scan the QR code) and update your Skills Maintenance activities.
ALL
Answers: 1.b 2.c 3.c
ROOFING
ADD TO YOUR LBP ACTIVITY LOG
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Put your own oxygen mask on first Written by Andy Burrows, The Trades Coach
That means understanding, before signing the
estimating, sales activity, training and the hours
contract, whether the price will cover the cost of
spent organising tomorrow’s work. Some costs arrive
delivering the work, the true overheads of running
annually; others disappear into the owner’s evenings
your business and a fair return for you as the owner.
and weekends. They are still real.
Good project management matters enormously. But
Your own time deserves particular attention. If you
even a well-run site struggles to rescue a job that
are estimating, supervising, managing clients and
was never priced to make enough money in the first
running the company, those roles have a cost, even
place.
when you are not drawing a proper wage.
Know what your margin must cover
Paying yourself fairly for the work you do (including
Most builders know their direct job costs: labour, harder question is how much each job must contribute to everything beyond the site. Vehicles, insurance, software, accounting, premises and administration all need paying. So do
after hours) is also different from earning a profit. Profit should provide a return for the capital, guarantees, responsibility and stress you carry, while helping the business build resilience. A company that only works because its owner works for free is not on a sound footing.
CONTINUE >>
materials, subcontractors and equipment. The
13
PRICING
Every airline safety briefing gives the same instruction: put your own oxygen mask on before helping others. For builders, that announcement holds a business lesson. Before you pour your energy into managing a job, coordinating trades and meeting client expectations, make sure your own company can breathe.
been diligent in your estimating, the price is the
14
price. If the client can’t afford it, then talk about reducing the scope, not your margin. Discuss budgets early. Identify mismatches before
PRICING
investing days in estimates. A strong sales process helps clients understand what they are buying and helps you recognise which opportunities deserve further effort. Sometimes the right commercial decision is to walk
Set the target before setting the price
away.
Once you understand your true overheads, assess
Protect the relationship before work begins
how much work your business can realistically deliver. Then establish the job margin required to cover those overheads and generate your target profit.
A badly priced job creates pressure that follows everyone onto site. Hoping to recover the shortfall through variations, surprise extras or shortcuts risks disputes, damaged trust and compromised quality.
Be careful with the arithmetic. Margin and markup are not interchangeable. Adding 20% to a job’s costs produces a margin of approximately 16.7% of the selling price, not 20%. That misunderstanding can leave a substantial hole across a year’s work. Keep cost classifications consistent, too. An expense included in your job costs should not also appear in overheads, and nothing should fall between the two. The result should be a clear pricing threshold, supported by realistic assumptions about workload, capacity and risk. It should guide your decision before you sign the contract, when you still have
Genuine changes should be priced and agreed
choices.
transparently. They should not become a rescue plan
Make your sales process support your price
for an inadequate original price.
If customers will not accept the price your business needs, simply shaving the margin is not a sustainable sales strategy.
Before committing, check that the job offers a credible return and that your cash flow can support its delivery. Busy is not the same as profitable, and profit does not automatically mean cash in the bank. Put your own oxygen mask on first. A financially healthy builder is better placed to look after everyone else.
Sometimes, it’s hard to step back from the pit face, look dispassionately at what you have been doing and make changes. If you need help, email me at andy@tradescoach.co.nz, and we can schedule a time to talk.
Look instead at how you attract, qualify and engage prospective clients. Are their budgets realistic? Do they understand the scope? Can you explain the value of your planning, communication, workmanship and reliability? Assuming you have
Andy specialises in working with the owners of construction related businesses to build systems and profitability into their operations.
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T E C H N O L O G Y
LONGER RUN TIME
Auckland builder, Angelo Madut, has been fined $8,000 after carrying out restricted building work without the required licence or supervision and using another Licensed Building Practitioner’s (LBP) licence without their knowledge or consent. The Manukau District Court handed down the
“Restricted building work must be carried out or
sentence after a prosecution by the Ministry of
supervised by appropriately licensed practitioners.
Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).
It is an offence to use another practitioner’s licence
Judge Forrest imposed a total fine of $8,000 plus court costs after finding Mr Madut guilty of carrying out restricted building work while unlicensed and
without their consent,” says Bevan Yee, Acting National Manager, Occupational Regulation at MBIE.
unsupervised, and knowingly making a false or
“Licensed Building Practitioners and the
misleading statement under the Building Act 2004.
LBP scheme play an important role in giving
Unsupervised foundation work Mr Madut carried out foundation construction work at an Auckland residential development before obtaining an LBP licence. Foundation work is restricted building work and must be carried out or supervised by an LBP. During a building inspection, Mr Madut told an inspector that another licensed practitioner had
homeowners and councils confidence that restricted building work is being carried out by appropriately qualified people.” Homeowners and industry participants can verify a practitioner’s licence status by checking the LBP Public Register before engaging them to undertake restricted building work. Check the Public Register
supervised the work and provided a copy of that
Practitioners who believe their
practitioner’s licence. MBIE’s investigation established
licence may have been used
that the practitioner was not involved in the project
without their consent should
and had not authorised the use of their licence.
contact MBIE.
Stricter disciplinary penalties for licensed practitioners
▶
The maximum suspension period will double from 12 months to 24 months.
Tougher penalties are coming for errant building
▶
The Board will be able to direct the Registrar to cancel a person’s license without also requiring a specified period before relicensing.
▶
If an LBP’s licence has been suspended in
practitioners, with changes to the Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) scheme included in a Bill before Parliament. The proposed changes to disciplinary systems and penalties in the Bill are: ▶
Maximum fines will double to $20,000.
▶
The LBP Board may order an LBP to pay “any sum it considers just and reasonable” towards the costs of investigating and prosecuting a complaint, as well as conducting a hearing before the Board.
the past three years, the register must show this, including the reason for the suspension. ▶
If an LBP’s licence has been cancelled as a result of disciplinary action in the past three years, the register must show that information.
LBP NEWS
Builder fined for unlicensed work and using another’s licence
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Improving occupational licensing to help homeowners Improvements to occupational licensing for licensed tradespeople and the work they do are underway, with them expected to take effect in the next six months. ▶
What the improvements include Expected to take effect in the next six months, work is underway to improve occupational licensing for licensed building practitioners (LBPs), licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers and the work they do. Changes include: ▶
▶
▶
▶
improving the disciplinary processes for LBPs by allowing the registrar to triage complaints and appoint investigators where needed publishing details of LBPs whose licences have been suspended for disciplinary reasons – helping homeowners choose an LBP for their building work progressing work to establish a new waterproofing licence class – homeowners can be confident LBPs completing their wet area bathrooms and level-entry showers are suitably qualified and accountable for their work improving the complaints processes for licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers – registrars can start the complaints process without a complainant
establishing codes of ethics for licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers to promote professional standards of behaviour – any breach will become a disciplinary offence.
Why the improvements are being made The improvements to occupational licensing are intended to: ▶
support building work being done right the first time
▶
encourage tradespeople to complete quality building work
▶
give homeowners confidence in the tradespeople working on their homes and a clear path to follow if things go wrong
▶
maintain a balance between affordability and the quality of construction within the building sector.
More information For more information
about regulating building professionals and practitioners go to: mbie.govt.nz
LBP NEWS
The improvements to occupational licensing ensure that trusted professionals undertaking building work can be held accountable if the work is not done right the first time.
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Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying: what designers need to know Codewords article provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying is
For designers, clear documentation will be
now open to certifying plumbers and drainlayers to
more important than ever. Building consent
apply for endorsement.
documentation should clearly identify plumbing
This allows endorsed plumbers and drainlayers to certify eligible plumbing and drainlaying as complying with the building consent. For that work, building consent authorities (BCAs) will rely on a certificate of compliance issued by the endorsed plumber or drainlayer instead of carrying out inspections.
and drainlaying proposed as self-certifiable and provide sufficient information for the BCA to assess compliance at the application stage.
How it works Plumbing and drainlaying that is intended to be self-certified must be listed in the building consent application. If the BCA is satisfied that the design complies with the Building Code and
drainlayers, it is also important for designers to
meets the definition of self-certifiable plumbing
understand how the scheme interacts with the
and drainlaying, it will list that work on the building
building consent process.
consent.
A building consent will still be required where one
Not all plumbing and drainlaying is eligible. Eligible
is currently required. BCAs will continue to assess
plumbing and drainlaying must be designed to an
building consent applications and determine
Acceptable Solution or Verification Method (AS/
whether the proposed work complies with the
VM), subject to some exceptions. Certain work,
Building Code before issuing a building consent.
including plumbing within common walls or work
building consent, then it does not qualify for selfcertification.
that penetrates fire separations, is still subject to BCA inspections.
CONTINUE >>
While self-certification is aimed at plumbers and
If plumbing and drainlaying doesn’t need a
21
CODEWORDS
A new self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying scheme is now open. Designers need to understand what work is eligible and how it should be documented in building.
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying also has limits on the type of buildings. To be eligible for self-certification, the building must not be taller than 3 storeys and not contain apartments. Designers should understand the limits of the
CODEWORDS
scheme and work closely with project teams to ensure building consent documents accurately reflect what is proposed. This includes clearly identifying the work intended to be self-certified on plans and specifications, as well as any requirements necessary for the completed work to demonstrate compliance with the Building Code.
More information For more information about the Self-certification for plumbing and
Codewords Quiz 1. What is the primary role of a designer when a project includes proposed selfcertifiable plumbing or drainlaying? a) Carry out the self-certification themselves. b) Clearly identify and document the proposed self-certifiable work within the building consent application and documentation. c) Approve the plumber’s certificate of compliance. d) Conduct inspections on behalf of the BCA.
drainlaying scheme scan here to visit the Building Performance website:
2. Which statement about building consents under self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying is correct? a) Building consents will no longer be required for eligible plumbing and drainlaying work.
Guidance Document
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying scheme SEPTEMBER 2026
b) The designer decides whether a building consent is required. c) Building consent requirements continue, and BCAs will still assess compliance of proposed building work before issuing a building consent. d) The Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board issues building consents. 3. Why is it important for designers to understand the scope of self-certifiable plumbing and drainlaying work? a) So they can issue certificates of compliance. b) So they can determine whether proposed work can be self-certified within the building consent application. c) So they can perform all compliance testing themselves.
ADD TO YOUR LBP ACTIVITY LOG This article is from Codewords Issue 132. Log in to the LBP portal lbp.govt.nz (or scan the QR code) and update your Skills Maintenance activities.
d) So they can remove Building Code requirements from the design.
This article is relevant to the Design class:
D DESIGN
EP EXTERNAL PLASTERING
Answers: 1.b 2.c 3.b
22
23
We recently brought the ITM network together in Queenstown for Conference 2026, and this one felt a little extra special. This year marks 35 years of the ITM Co-operative. Thirty-five years of independently owned stores,
That’s always been the heart of
strong local relationships, plenty of hard work, and a
ITM: the relationships between
whole lot of people backing each other along the way.
our stores, our teams, our
Conference 2026 gave us the chance to celebrate that properly. Not just the milestone itself, but the successes, partnerships, and people that have helped shape ITM over the past three and a half decades. A few packed days of business sessions, supplier catch-ups, the ITM Football Cup, dinners, activities,
suppliers and the communities we’re part of. 35 years down. Plenty more to build.
great conversations and more than a few laughs. But the best part? Having our people together.
With 94 stores nationwide, we've got you covered NORTHLAND
■ Bay of Islands ITM Kaikohe 09 407 7600 ■ Bay of Islands ITM Paihia 09 402 7703 ■ Bay of Islands ITM Waipapa 09 407 8002 ■ Dargaville ITM 09 439 8730 ■ Far North ITM Kaitaia 09 408 3927 ■ Far North ITM Mangonui 09 406 0048 ■ Mangawhai ITM 09 431 4963 ■ Toots ITM Ngunguru 09 434 3171 ■ Waipu ITM 09 432 0203 ■ Whangarei ITM 09 437 9420
AUCKLAND
■ Albany ITM 09 415 6889 ■ Barrier ITM Tryphena 09 429 0466 ■ Dayle ITM Avondale 09 828 9791 ■ Dayle ITM East Tamaki 09 274 4942 ■ Dysart ITM Glen Innes 09 521 3609 ■ Hillside ITM Glenfield 09 443 8101 ■ MacClure's ITM Henderson 09 836 0088 ■ Mahia ITM Takanini 09 267 0234 ■ Matakana ITM 09 422 7525 ■ Papakura ITM 09 294 9410 ■ Tuakau ITM 09 236 8226 ■ Waiuku ITM 09 235 7289 ■ Warkworth ITM 09 425 1021 ■ Weck’s ITM Patumahoe 09 236 3684 ■ Weck’s ITM Pukekohe 09 238 3678 ■ Western ITM Kumeu 09 412 8148 ■ Western ITM Whenuapai 09 416 8164
WELLINGTON ■ Crighton ITM Greytown 06 304 7193 ■ Crighton ITM Seaview 04 568 3896 ■ Toa ITM Heretaunga 04 527 6800 ■ Toa ITM Porirua 04 232 5999
WAIKATO/BAY OF PLENTY
■ Acorn ITM Hamilton 07 856 6789 ■ Cambridge ITM 07 827 0953 ■ Coromandel ITM 07 866 8848 ■ Dayle ITM Kopu 07 868 9829 ■ KKBS ITM Katikati 07 549 0689 ■ Matamata Post & Rails ITM 07 888 8189 ■ Mount ITM Mt Maunganui 07 575 3126 ■ Omokoroa ITM 07 552 5770 ■ Opotiki ITM 07 315 5984 ■ Otorohanga ITM 07 873 4841 ■ Pauanui ITM 07 864 8579 ■ Rotorua ITM 07 347 9423 ■ Taupo ITM 07 378 9899 ■ Tauranga ITM 07 541 1232 ■ Te Puke ITM 07 573 9993 ■ Thomsons ITM Hamilton 07 849 3674 ■ Thomsons ITM Whatawhata 07 829 8518 ■ Timmo’s ITM Te Awamutu 07 871 7545 ■ Tokoroa ITM 07 886 6611 ■ Turangi ITM 07 386 5736 ■ Whakatane ITM 07 307 0031
HAWKES BAY
■ Napier ITM 06 842 0531
MANAWATU/TARANAKI
■ Central ITM Carterton 06 929 7598 ■ Central ITM Feilding 06 323 3400 ■ Central ITM Marton 06 327 5458 ■ Crighton ITM Levin 06 368 4057 ■ Hometown ITM Foxton 06 363 8049 ■ Manawatu ITM 06 356 9490 ■ New Plymouth ITM 06 758 8939 ■ North Taranaki ITM Inglewood 06 756 7535 ■ North Taranaki ITM Waitara 06 754 8822 ■ North Taranaki ITM Waiwhakaiho 06 759 7435 ■ Stratford ITM 06 765 7800
TASMAN/NELSON/MARLBOROUGH ■ Blenheim ITM 03 578 3049 ■ Havelock ITM 03 574 1018 ■ Motueka ITM 03 528 7254 ■ Nelson ITM 03 548 5487 ■ Picton ITM 03 573 6888 ■ Takaka ITM 03 525 0005
CANTERBURY/WEST COAST ■ Ashburton ITM 03 307 0412 ■ Basher’s ITM Amberley 03 314 8311 ■ Darfield ITM 03 318 7474 ■ Geraldine ITM 03 693 9397 ■ Greymouth ITM 03 768 0441 ■ Hamptons ITM Waltham 03 374 3333 ■ Hillside ITM Hornby 03 349 9739 ■ Kaiapoi ITM 03 327 8829 ■ Kaikoura ITM 03 319 5447 ■ McMullan ITM Hokitika 03 755 8519 ■ McVicar ITM Harewood 0800 191 674 ■ ProBuild ITM Rolleston 0800 445 520 ■ Rangiora ITM 03 313 4862 ■ Timaru ITM 03 688 8074
OTAGO/SOUTHLAND
■ Dunedin ITM 03 262 1008 ■ E H Ball ITM Invercargill 03 218 3787 ■ Fraser Hardware ITM Balclutha 03 418 0170 ■ Gore ITM 03 208 0649 ■ Mosgiel ITM 03 489 8885 ■ Southbuild ITM Winton 03 236 6055 ■ Southern Lakes ITM Alexandra 03 427 2221 ■ Southern Lakes ITM Cromwell 03 445 0081 ■ Southern Lakes ITM Queenstown 03 451 1567 ■ Southern Lakes ITM Wanaka 03 443 2545
FOR YOUR NEAREST ITM STORE PHONE 0800 FOR ITM OR VISIT ITM.CO.NZ PRODUCTS ON PROMOTION: All prices exclude GST. Promotions are valid October 1st - November 30th 2026, unless specified otherwise. Some products may only be available in some ITM stores, but as part of our rain check policy, they can be ordered in at the advertised price. Contact your local ITM store to confirm availability.
ANNIVERSARY
35 YEARS OF ITM
SOMETIMES, A FEW SCRIBBLES ON A PIECE OF 4X2 SAYS IT ALL.