Fire Compliance in New Zealand: What Every Building Owner Needs to Know

1. Specified Systems

Buildings with fire alarms, sprinklers, smoke control systems, emergency lighting, or other fire protection equipment are classed as having specified systems under the Building Act.

As a building owner or manager, your responsibilities include:

• Ensuring proper installation and ongoing maintenance
• Scheduling regular inspections and servicing
• Keeping detailed records of tests, maintenance, and repairs

Using a certified Independent Qualified Person (IQP) ensures your systems meet the required standards and that your records are valid for compliance purposes.

2. Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF)

For buildings with specified systems, a valid Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) must be issued annually.

A BWOF confirms:

• All specified systems have been inspected and maintained
• Form 12A certificates have been issued by IQPs
• Your Compliance Schedule logbook is current and accessible

Missing a BWOF renewal or failing to maintain your systems can result in fines of up to $20,000.

3. Fire Safety and Evacuation Plans

A well-documented Fire Safety Plan is required under the NZBC. These plans outline:

• Evacuation routes and assembly points
• Staff roles and responsibilities during an emergency
• Procedures for alerting occupants and emergency services

Review and update your plan whenever the building layout changes. Regular fire drills ensure staff know what to do and help demonstrate proactive compliance during inspections.

4. Emergency Lighting and Exit Signage

• Emergency lighting helps occupants safely evacuate during power failures.
• Exit signage guides people to safe exits.

Check your signs and lighting regularly and replace any damaged or burnt-out signs. Blocked exits or faulty lighting are common compliance breaches.

5. Fire Extinguishers and Hose Reels

Portable fire-fighting equipment must be installed, visible, and easily accessible.

Compliance requirements:

• Serviced and checked at regular intervals (usually every 12 months)
• Suitable for the types of fire risks present (Class A, B, C)

Tip: Keep equipment in good condition, get extinguishers serviced regularly, and make sure staff know how to use it safely.

6. Smoke Control and Alarm Systems

Smoke control systems and fire alarms are vital for early detection and safety.

Requirements:

• Regular testing and maintenance by IQPs
• Integration with evacuation procedures and emergency services notifications
• Records kept in the Compliance Schedule logbook

7. Fire-Rated Doors and Building Materials

Fire-rated doors, walls, and partitions slow the spread of fire and provide crucial time for evacuation.

Compliance tip: Check doors regularly to ensure they close properly and that seals are intact. Propping doors open or damaged doors can result in compliance breaches.

8. Compliance Schedule and Records

Accurate records are key to functional systems and BWOF compliance.

• Keep a current Compliance Schedule for all specified systems
• Document inspections, maintenance, and IQP Form 12As
• Make records easily accessible for auditors or emergency services