The requirements of change of use of existing buildings in the main centres of New Zealand in relation to acceptable solutions of the Building code handbook to what is reasonably practicable : a dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Property Studies at Lincoln University

Abstract

The New Zealand Building Code published in 1992 is a document designed to give consistency in building design throughout New Zealand. The associated Handbook gives simple answers to questions frequently asked about the Building Code and associated legislation. The handbook states in the introduction 1.0.1 that legal interpretation must however be based on the actual wording of the Building Act 1991 and Regulations themselves. The Handbook provides for acceptable solutions which, if used, will result in compliance with the New Zealand Building Code. The Handbook also provides for alternative solutions if they comply with the Building Code. The purpose of this study is to attempt to determine whether or not there is consistency in interpretation of the Building Code between differing Territorial Authorities in New Zealand. The study relates to a change of use situation of an existing building rather than a new building and therefore encompasses ''what is reasonably practicable." It is in this area that some differences could be expected. In theory there should be few differences in interpretation. To achieve a result a subject property was chosen that was two storey, reasonably old and planned for conversion into an activity which is clearly a change of use. The change of use was retail/accommodation to a bar thereby requiring compliance with structure, fire, means of escape, moisture, lighting, warning systems, hygiene, ventilation, sound and light. The study was composed to gauge local authorities' interpretations as to requirements of each of the above to determine their opinion or ruling as to "what is reasonably practicable." The results were achieved by surveying Territorial Authorities with a questionnaire based on various sections of the building code as related to the subject property. The results when received were analysed and conclusions made. These results show there is little consistency in the majority of the areas surveyed.