Do I Have to Display my BWOF in my Building? Fireco Explains why Displaying your BWOF Matters
When it comes to building compliance in New Zealand, a Building Warrant of Fitness is more than a piece of paperwork. A BWOF is proof that your building meets NZ’s strict safety standards, but many building owners overlook the fact that simply having a BWOF isn’t enough.
According to the Building Act 2004, Section 108(4):
“The owner must publicly display a copy of the Building Warrant of Fitness.”
This makes it clear that displaying your BWOF isn’t up for debate, and the Building Performance NZ website backs this up by explaining why displaying your BWOF is important:
“A building owner needs to renew a building’s warrant of fitness (BWOF) every 12 months, signing, issuing and publicly displaying it. This confirms the building’s specified systems have been maintained and inspected.”
Displaying your BWOF publicly shows tenants, employees, and visitors that your building’s safety systems are fully operational and regularly checked, which gives everyone confidence in the safety and compliance of your premises.
Where to Display Your BWOF
Your BWOF should be in a prominent, easily visible location where anyone entering the building can see it. Common locations include:
- The main foyer or entrance
- Reception areas
- Other high-traffic common areas
Placing your BWOF in a visible spot satisfies legal requirements while reinforcing your dedication to safety and compliance.
Why Displaying Your BWOF Matters
Displaying your BWOF certificate is about transparency and safety, as a clearly visible BWOF demonstrates:
- Your commitment to maintaining all specified systems and keeping the building safe.
- That inspections and maintenance have been carried out by qualified professionals.
- Reassurance for occupants and visitors that your building is compliant with NZ safety standards.
In short, public display of your BWOF is a simple way to show that safety comes first.
Consequences of Not Displaying Your BWOF
Failing to display your BWOF, or displaying an incorrect or expired copy, can have serious consequences:
- Fines of up to $20,000 for non-compliance.
- Possible prosecution if your BWOF is not renewed on time.
- Damage to your building’s reputation and trust with tenants, staff, or visitors.
Maintaining an up-to-date and visible BWOF protects both your legal standing and the people in your building, but staying compliant also shows your commitment to safety and professionalism.
How Fireco Can Help Secure and Display Your BWOF
Here at Fireco, we make BWOF compliance simple. Our network of Independent Qualified Persons (IQPs) can help conduct inspections of specified systems and complete Form 12A, and advise on correct visible display locations for your BWOF certification.
We handle the technical details so you can manage your building knowing your premises are safe and compliant.
Need help with your BWOF? Get in touch with the Fireco team today.
