Earthquake-prone regulations update

Changes Coming to New Zealand’s Earthquake-Prone Building System

The Government has announced upcoming changes to New Zealand’s earthquake-prone building (EPB) system, aimed at making it fairer, more practical, and better focused on real risk.

Approved by Cabinet in late September 2025, the proposed reforms are designed to improve life safety outcomes while reducing unnecessary costs and disruption for building owners — especially in regional communities.

What’s the Goal of the Changes?

The current EPB system applies broadly, sometimes capturing buildings that pose very little actual risk. The updated approach will be more proportionate and risk-based, meaning:

• The highest-risk buildings receive the most attention

• Lower-risk buildings face fewer requirements

• Building owners can make steady progress without overwhelming costs

The Government estimates these changes could save building owners around $8.2 billion in seismic retrofit costs, while still addressing the most serious life-safety risks.

What Changes Are Being Proposed?

A bill outlining the reforms is expected to be introduced in the coming months. Key proposals include:

• Removing low-risk buildings and buildings in low seismic zones — such as Auckland, Northland, and the Chatham Islands — from the EPB system

• Introducing tiered risk mitigation requirements, based on building type and location, using modern engineering methods

• Allowing building owners to apply for deadline extensions, supporting gradual and realistic strengthening work

• Reducing barriers to seismic upgrades by removing the need to carry out fire and accessibility upgrades at the same time

By focusing efforts where they matter most, the system aims to deliver safer outcomes without unnecessary financial strain.

What This Means for Building Owners

If you own or manage a building, these changes could mean:

• Fewer requirements for low-risk buildings

• More flexibility around timelines

• Lower compliance costs

• Clearer expectations based on actual seismic risk

For many owners, especially outside high-risk seismic zones, this update may significantly reduce the scope and urgency of strengthening work.

What Happens Next?

While the reforms are not law yet, the Government has released its Cabinet papers, reports, and supporting analysis, giving building owners and industry professionals early insight into what’s coming.

At Wellington Building Company, we keep a close eye on changes like these so we can help clients understand their obligations and plan with confidence.

Learn More

If you’d like to explore the details further, the following documents are available on the MBIE website:

• Proposed changes to the earthquake-prone building (EPB) system — mbie.govt.nz

• Earthquake-prone building and seismic risk management review — mbie.govt.nz

If you have questions about how these proposed changes may affect your building or future projects, we’re always happy to help you navigate the options.