Your BWOF Renewal Checklist: Stay compliant, avoid fines, and keep your building safe.
If your Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) is coming up for renewal, it’s important to be prepared. A current BWOF isn’t just a legal requirement in New Zealand, it’s a key part of keeping your building and the people inside it safe.
To help you stay on top of the process, here’s a simple step-by-step checklist for renewing your BWOF, and how Fireco can help make it easy for business owners and property managers.
1. Review Your Building’s Compliance Schedule
Your compliance schedule is the roadmap to your BWOF. It lists all the specified systems in your building – like fire alarms, sprinklers, emergency lighting, or lifts – and how often they must be inspected and maintained.
Tip: If you’re not sure where to find your compliance schedule or what’s on it, Fireco can help you track it down and explain what’s required.
2. Book Your IQP Inspections Early
Each system on your compliance schedule must be inspected by an Independent Qualified Person (IQP) – this is someone approved by the local council to check that these systems are in good working order. Read more about IQPs on the Building Performance NZ website here.
Leave it too late, and you might miss your renewal deadline!
Tip: Fireco’s team includes qualified IQPs who can inspect, test, and certify a wide range of systems. We know what your building needs and how to get it done quickly.
3. Collect Your Form 12As
For every system inspected, you’ll need a Form 12A certificate, which you’ll get from your IQP who carries out the inspection. This form confirms that the inspection and maintenance of that system has been carried out as required.
You’ll need to include these forms when submitting your BWOF.
Tip: We’ll provide all necessary Form 12As as part of our IQP service, so you don’t have to chase paperwork or coordinate multiple contractors.
4. Complete and Submit Your BWOF
Once you have all your Form 12As, you’ll need to complete the BWOF form, confirm the compliance details, and submit it to your local council.
Tip: Fireco can handle this whole process for you, from inspections to paperwork, making sure nothing is missed and everything’s compliant.
5. Display Your BWOF
Once issued, your BWOF must be displayed in a visible location within your building – often in the front entry, reception, or lobby.
Tip: It’s not just a formality! Displaying your BWOF is legally required, plus it shows staff, tenants, and visitors that the building is safe and up to standard.
6. Keep Records for 2 Years
You’re required to keep copies of all inspection reports, Form 12As, and the compliance schedule for at least two years. These may be requested by your council or during an audit.
Tip: Fireco keeps detailed records of every inspection we complete, so you’ll always have easy access to your compliance history.
The Easiest Way to Secure Your BWOF? Leave It to Fireco – Your Local BWOF Experts
BWOF renewals can feel like a headache, especially when juggling multiple systems, inspectors, and documents. But with Fireco, it doesn’t have to be stressful.
We take care of the process from start to finish:
- Qualified IQPs
- Timely inspections
- All Form 12As supplied
- Hassle-free paperwork
- Local knowledge & trusted by councils
Is your BWOF due soon? Let’s get it sorted early, contact Fireco today to book your inspections and avoid the last-minute rush.
