Catch up on the key updates from Property Council’s advocacy team, including:
MBIE providing certainty around seismic standards
The uncertainty that is created with ever-changing seismic standards is one of the industry’s major challenges. Across New Zealand, many property owners have invested significantly in upgrading their buildings to meet appropriate seismic standards as well comply with health and safety legislation. However, it is disheartening when seismic standards change, with little or no engagement with the property industry
Earlier this year, the Government announced a review of seismic risk management in existing buildings under the earthquake prone building system. Property Council has been working closely with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), in order to help keep our members informed of any changes as early as possible. We can confirm that there will be no regulatory changes anticipated to occur ahead of the review’s final report aside from the legislation currently before Parliament to extend earthquake-prone building remediation deadlines by four years
It is great to get some certainty regarding timeframes so that the industry is best prepared for what’s to come. We will continue to keep you updated on what is happening in this space.
Non-earthquake-prone buildings also under the microscope
On 15 August, Property Council submitted on the proposed changes to the Seismic Assessment Guidelines for non-earthquake-prone buildings.
Property Council did not make comments on the technical nature of the document but rather provided feedback on the broader issues within the system.
We recommended that:
- The Joint Committee pause or halt this consultation to re-evaluate the implications of updating these seismic assessment guidelines, given that this could create more uncertainty in the sector.
Join our taskforces!
Property Council has several dynamic and engaged member taskforces, who provide insight and support our advocacy team on a range of issues, from Build-to-Rent to Seismic strengthening and Environment & Sustainability.
These groups are ever-changing and are open to all members.
Recent submissions
Submission on Queenstown Lakes District Council Long Term Plan 2024-34
Submission on Overseas Investment (Build-to-Rent and Similar Rental Developments) Amendment Bill
Submission to MBIE on removing barriers to using overseas building products
Submission on Draft Auckland Regional Transport Plan 2024-2034
Author | Sandamali Ambepitiya
Sandamali arrived at Property Council with a Bachelor of Arts and Law, and experience as an advisor with the Employers & Manufacturers Association.
Conscientious and detailed, Sandamali leads our advocacy in the South Island and Wellington regions. She is also leading our work on the reform of the resource management and building systems and sustainability / seismic strengthening.
An excellent listener, Sandamali is in her element when facilitating stakeholders and members to develop our advocacy positions.
