New Bill to Extend Earthquake-Prone Building Remediation Deadlines in NZ

“To address these issues, we are reviewing the earthquake-prone building system to simplify and clarify the regulations,” Mr. Penk stated.

The New Zealand Government is advancing a Bill to extend remediation deadlines for earthquake-prone buildings, aiming to address challenges related to the current seismic risk system, according to Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk.

There are over 5,000 buildings nationwide identified as earthquake-prone. The complexity and high costs associated with compliance have led to delays in remediation efforts. Recent discrepancies in risk assessments, such as those reported for a building in Porirua with varied risk ratings, have highlighted the need for a more straightforward and transparent system.

“To address these issues, we are reviewing the earthquake-prone building system to simplify and clarify the regulations,” Mr. Penk stated. “Building owners require more certainty and incentives to either remediate or demolish their earthquake-prone buildings.”

The Building (Earthquake-prone Building Deadlines and Other Matters) Amendment Bill, which has passed its first reading, proposes a four-year extension to remediation deadlines for all non-lapsed earthquake-prone buildings as of April 2, 2024. This extension will be effective once the Bill becomes law, expected by the end of the year. Additionally, there will be an option for a further two-year extension if needed.

Nearly 500 buildings have remediation deadlines expiring within the next four years. This extension aims to alleviate immediate legal and enforcement pressures on building owners while the review is underway. Building owners who can undertake remediation work are encouraged to do so.

“The review’s goal is to develop a system that balances safety with practical considerations of cost and feasibility,” Mr. Penk added. “Ensuring New Zealanders' safety through effective management of seismic risk remains our top priority.”