A new self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying scheme is now open. Designers need to understand what work is eligible and how it should be documented in building consent applications.
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying is now open to certifying plumbers and drainlayers to apply for endorsement.
This allows endorsed plumbers and drainlayers to certify eligible plumbing and drainlaying as complying with the building consent. For that work, building consent authorities (BCAs) will rely on a certificate of compliance issued by the endorsed plumber or drainlayer instead of carrying out inspections.
While self-certification is aimed at plumbers and drainlayers, it is also important for designers to understand how the scheme interacts with the building consent process.
A building consent will still be required where one is currently required. BCAs will continue to assess building consent applications and determine whether the proposed work complies with the Building Code before issuing a building consent.
If plumbing and drainlaying doesn’t need a building consent, then it does not qualify for self-certification.
For designers, clear documentation will be more important than ever. Building consent documentation should clearly identify plumbing and drainlaying proposed as self-certifiable and provide sufficient information for the BCA to assess compliance at the application stage.
How it works
Plumbing and drainlaying that is intended to be self-certified must be listed in the building consent application. If the BCA is satisfied that the design complies with the Building Code and meets the definition of self-certifiable plumbing and drainlaying, it will list that work on the building consent.
Not all plumbing and drainlaying is eligible. Eligible plumbing and drainlaying must be designed to an Acceptable Solution or Verification Method (AS/VM), subject to some exceptions. Certain work, including plumbing within common walls or work that penetrates fire separations, is still subject to BCA inspections.
Self-certification for plumbing and drainlaying also has limits on the type of buildings. To be eligible for self-certification, the building must not be taller than 3 storeys and not contain apartments.
Designers should understand the limits of the scheme and work closely with project teams to ensure building consent documents accurately reflect what is proposed. This includes clearly identifying the work intended to be self-certified on plans and specifications, as well as any requirements necessary for the completed work to demonstrate compliance with the Building Code.
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