The Weathertightness Overview Group was appointed by the Building Industry Authority (BIA) to inquire into the nature, extent and effect of weathertightness problems in New Zealand and the potential contributing causes. The group’s findings were released on 17 September 2002.
Please click to go to the Building Industry Authority website and view the Overview Group’s report.
North Shore City supports the findings of the Overview Group in principle and we favour a co-ordinated local government approach to resolve the problems - provided issues of resourcing, conflicts of interest and liability are addressed. Click here to go to the Local Government New Zealand website for more information.
We are making a submission to the Government Administration Select Committee which is considering the issue. We're also urging residents and homeowners to get involved in the inquiry and make their views known on the leaky buildings issue. Click here for information on how to make a submission to the select committee.
If you have concerns about the weathertightness of individual properties you should seek advice from an accredited building advisor or a registered engineer. Other organisations that can provide further information on the weathertightness issue include:
Government's Weathertightness Service to help homeowners with 'leaky buildings' at www.dia.govt.nz/weathertightness or call them on 0800 116 926 between 8.30am and 7.00pm (Monday to Friday)
The Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) on (04) 237 1170 or www.branz.co.nz
The New Zealand Institute of Building Surveyors on 0800 113 400 or www.buildingsurveyors.co.nz
The Consumers' Institute on (04) 384 7963 or www.consumer.org.nz.
Our What to look for when buying a terraced house or apartment guide helps buyers choose a good quality property that’s right for them. Jointly produced with Auckland Regional Council and the support of other Auckland councils, this guide may help you identify potential leaky building problems, although this is not the booklet's main focus. The guide suggests what to look out for, some key questions to ask and features information on choosing the right location, neighbourhood character, building quality, layout and design, as well as looking at management and maintenance issues and ways to reduce noise. For more information, please click here.