Have your say on draft earthquake-prone building guidance

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is seeking feedback on draft guidance for how New Zealand’s new Earthquake-Prone Building (EPB) system will work in practice.

The draft earthquake-prone building legislation and methodology guidance will provide practical instructions for territorial authorities, engineers and building owners on the new system, including how to apply the guidance and transition existing EPBs into and out of the new system.

Under the new system, only unreinforced masonry buildings and buildings three storeys or taller that are made of heavy materials can be designated as EPBs. The system will apply in medium and high seismic zones only.

Consultation on the draft guidance will run until 4 December 2026.

The draft guidance document is now available. MBIE will also be holding webinars for territorial authorities, engineers and building owners.