Immediate changes to the Building Code’s supporting documents for Clause B1 Structure took effect on 19 May. The changes increase the seismic hazard factor for Christchurch and require stronger foundations for buildings in that area as a means to allow Christchurch to rebuild or repair buildings with certainty and as quickly as possible.
The new documents for Clause B1 Structure, detailing the changes can be downloaded from the Department of Building and Housing's website.
The Department's Building Controls Update No. 114 provides a detailed explanation for the changes.
View the media release from the Minister for Earthquake Recovery and the Minister for Building and Construction.