Earthquake Prone Buildings

Legislation for earthquake prone buildings

Recent legislation has removed the need for Councils to have an earthquake prone building policy and instead the matter is now covered by Sections 133AA to 133AY of the Building Act 2004.

You can also find more information in a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQs), available on our website.

What does 'earthquake-prone' mean and does it apply to all buildings?

• Essentially, an earthquake-prone building is an existing building that will have strength that is 33% or less of the seismic loading standard for new buildings.
• A building designed to the current design standards would have at least 100% of New Building Standard (NBS). Existing buildings are assessed and given a %NBS. If a building is less than 33% NBS, it is classed as earthquake-prone.
• You can find more information about earthquake prone buildings in sections Sections 133AA to 133AY of the Building Act 2004.
• Small residential buildings (houses) are exempt from the provisions of the Act.

Earthquake prone buildings in the Grey District

Council have revised their list of potential earthquake prone buildings to align with the requirements of the Building Act. A number of buildings were removed from the list

In May 2019 letters were issued to building owners who are still on our list and have not previously submitted an acceptable report - they are required to do so by 20 May 2020.

Building owners who have previously received Section 124 (Earthquake Prone Buildings) Notices will receive Earthquake Prone Building Notices to replace those. The dates for completion in the EPB Notices will be the same as those in the Section 124 Notices.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in contact with us to discuss. Email eqpb@greydc.govt.nz or phone 03 769 8600.