Navigating Auckland’s Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) with Fireco: Your Compliance Partner
Acquiring a Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) in Auckland is a crucial step in ensuring that your commercial property complies with safety standards. However, the process can be complex, involving numerous guidelines and annual cycles. At Fireco, we understand the challenges associated with securing and maintaining a BWOF, and we’re here to simplify this journey for you.
Understanding the Auckland BWOF Process
A Building Warrant of Fitness certifies that the building owner has had all specified systems within the building inspected and properly maintained according to their compliance schedule – which is proven by a BWOF certificate.
Essentially, a BWOF is a certificate that proves all systems in the building are in optimal working order, essential for the smooth and safe operation of the premises. It’s the responsibility of the building owner to ensure their specified systems are in correct working order and up to BWOF standard. The BWOF is a yearly process, requiring Auckland building owners to:
- Obtain a BWOF
- Display a copy of the BWOF certificate (Form 12) in a visible location
- Provide Council with a copy of the BWOF and IQP Certificates (Form 12A)
Fireco offers streamlined solutions to navigate through the compliance journey, saving you time and alleviating the stress associated with the process.
Types of Specified Systems in a BWOF
The Auckland Council defines ‘Specified Systems’ as:
“A specified system is a system or feature that is contained within a building for the primary purpose of maintaining health or life safety of building users i.e. fire alarm, sprinkler, mechanical ventilation system, etc.”
You can read more from the Auckland Council’s ‘Compliance Schedules and Building Warrant of Fitness’ document here.
Navigating compliance starts with understanding the specified systems within your Auckland commercial property. These can include fire suppression systems, emergency warning and alarm systems, lifts, escalators, service elevators, access-controlled doors, and lighting systems, among others. Our expert team at Fireco is well-versed in identifying and managing these systems, providing you with comprehensive assistance tailored to your property’s unique needs.
Why Choose an Independent Qualified Person (IQP) in Auckland
An IQP is a key player in the BWOF process. They’re highly trained compliance professionals registered with the Auckland Council, conducting detailed annual inspections during your compliance schedule. It’s important that they’re “independent”: meaning they have no financial interest in the buildings they inspect for the sake of objectivity.
Fireco collaborates with experienced IQPs across Auckland, ensuring that your specified systems are thoroughly inspected, and maintenance is appropriately documented on the Form 12A. This meticulous process ensures that your property meets the regulations outlined in the New Zealand Standard code.
The Role of an Auckland BWOF
The BWOF is not just a certificate; it’s a sign of your commitment to safety and compliance with the Building Act of 2004. Failing to comply with Auckland BWOF regulations risks major penalties, as explained by the Auckland Council:
- If a person is the owner of a building for which a compliance schedule has been obtained, they are liable for a fine of up to $20,000 with a further fine of $2,000 for each day the offence is continued.
- Building owners can be fined up to $20,000 for failing to display a Building Warrant of Fitness or displaying a false or misleading Building Warrant of Fitness.
- Building owners who fail to give written notice of a change of use commit an offence and are liable to a maximum fine of $5,000.
- It is also an offence carrying a fine of up to $100,000 to use or permit the use of a building, which is not safe or sanitary, or if it has inadequate means of escape from fire.
At Fireco, we understand the importance of a cost-effective BWOF process. By partnering with us, you tap into a network of expert compliance professionals who provide advice on adhering to codes and completing BWOF maintenance efficiently.
Advantages of Partnering with Fireco
- Expert and Trusted Professionals: Access a network of compliance experts in your local Auckland area.
- Comprehensive Guidance: Receive advice on adhering to codes and completing BWOF maintenance effectively.
- Time and Cost Savings: Save time and money without the stress of handling every aspect of the BWOF process.
Our goal at Fireco is to empower you to achieve your Auckland BWOF with confidence. For expert guidance on navigating the BWOF process, trust Fireco. Learn more about how we can help here, or email info@fireco.co.nz. Let us be your dedicated partner in ensuring the safety and compliance of your commercial property in Auckland.
