If you’re a building product manufacturer, importer, retailer, or distributor based in New Zealand, you must be aware of the regulatory requirements that apply to your business. The Building Product Information Requirements (BPIR) are a set of regulations introduced by the New Zealand government in 2016 to enhance the quality and transparency of building products used in New Zealand.
New regulations were made by the government in June 2022, giving the sector an 18-month transition period to prepare to comply with these changes. The regulations will commence on 11 December 2023, when manufacturers and importers must meet their obligations. The regulations apply to designated building products manufactured in, or imported into, Aotearoa, New Zealand on or after 11 December 2023.
What is required for BPIR regulations?
The BPIR regulations require building product manufacturers, importers, retailers, and distributors to provide accurate, up-to-date, and accessible information about their products to building consent authorities, building certifiers, and other building professionals. This information should include product performance, installation requirements, and maintenance instructions.
Critical requirements for BPIR
One of the critical requirements of the BPIR regulations is that all building products must be tested and certified to relevant New Zealand standards before they can be sold or used in New Zealand. Building product manufacturers, importers, retailers, and distributors must be able to provide evidence of this certification when requested by building consent authorities or other regulators.
Another critical aspect of the BPIR regulations is ensuring that all building product information is readily accessible to building professionals, such as architects, engineers, and builders. This information should be available in various formats, including online databases, product catalogues, and technical manuals.
If you’re a building product manufacturer, importer, retailer, or distributor based in New Zealand, it’s vital to ensure that you’re complying with the BPIR regulations. Failure to do so can result in fines or other penalties and damage to your reputation and brand.
Helpful resources for BPIR preparation
What is the difference between BPIR requirements and CODEMARK?
BPIR and Codemark certification are well-known and widely used certifications in New Zealand, but what sets them apart? The BPIR certification is a quality assurance certification that provides an independent measure of the quality of a building product. The certification is based on a comprehensive evaluation of a product’s performance, including its durability, energy efficiency, and overall sustainability. BPIR certification demonstrates that an independent third party entity has verified a product and is fit for purpose.
On the other hand, Codemark certification is a building product certification that confirms that a product meets the New Zealand Building Code requirements. Codemark certification is awarded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and is recognised by all building consent authorities in New Zealand. Codemark certification is mandatory for many building products and is often required for building consent applications.
In conclusion, the BPIR regulations are essential to the New Zealand government’s efforts to improve the quality and safety of building products used in the country. By complying with the BPIR regulations, building product manufacturers, importers, retailers, and distributors can help ensure that their products meet the highest standards of quality and safety and are accessible to building professionals throughout New Zealand. While BPIR and Codemark certifications are important in the building industry, they serve different purposes. BPIR certification focuses on the quality and sustainability of a product, while Codemark certification ensures that a product meets the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code.
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