Govt seeks feedback on new rules for overseas building products

The Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment (MBIE) is calling on industry professionals and the public to provide feedback on a new proposal that could make it significantly easier to use overseas building products in local construction projects.

The draft Building Product Specifications document sets out internationally recognised standards and specifications that can be used to demonstrate compliance with New Zealand’s Building Code. If adopted, the new rules would streamline the consenting process for proven overseas materials such as windows, plasterboard and cladding.

MBIE's Manager of Building Performance and Engineering, Dave Gittings, said the goal was to create a clearer, more efficient framework. “This new document streamlines the process for those looking to use proven and tested overseas products, knowing they will be accepted through the consenting system,” he said.

“Designers will be able to use overseas products that comply with any one of these standards and specifications to show the building work meets overall Building Code requirements.”

MBIE expects a wide range of stakeholders to take interest in the proposed changes – including councils, builders, developers and designers – and has indicated that more product categories will be added in future updates.

“We think there’ll be a lot of interest in the changes – from councils who will be using the Building Product Specifications when assessing compliance – to designers, builders and developers keen to understand what other options are out there,” Dr Gittings said.

What this reform means for sellers and buyers

For homeowners planning renovations or new builds, this could mean greater access to a wider range of products, potentially leading to more design flexibility, faster approvals and better cost control.

If your clients are preparing to build and want guidance on financing or navigating the approval process, please introduce us.