If your building has safety systems it must also have a building warrant of fitness
If your commercial building has safety systems installed, it must also have a current Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF). Safety systems include automatic fire suppression systems, smoke control systems, emergency lighting and automatic emergency doors. A building WOF ensures minimum standards for these systems are met.
Firewatch Tauranga carries out building WOFs for new buildings and can renew existing warrants. We'll ensure you have all the documentation you need. To book a building WOF, contact Firewatch Tauranga. We look forward to hearing from you.
0800 347 339
Missed Inspections
Each specified system in a building has its own maintenance and inspection schedule. Failing to keep up with these inspections can lead to non-compliance.Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation
The BWOF process requires accurate records, including Form 12As from IQPs. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay renewals.Unapproved System Changes
Any modifications to specified systems (e.g. fire alarms, sprinklers, or ventilation) must be approved and reflected in the compliance schedule.Lack of Maintenance
Even if systems pass inspections, poor maintenance can cause failures that put safety and compliance at risk.To avoid compliance issues, Firewatch Tauranga offers automated tracking and reminders for all BWOF obligations, ensuring nothing is missed. Our team provides expert guidance to keep your building fully compliant with New Zealand building regulations.
Many building owners unintentionally fall out of compliance with BWOF regulations due to misunderstandings or overlooked requirements. Some of the most common issues include:
The role of IQPs in the BWOF process
An Independent Qualified Person (IQP) plays a crucial role in ensuring that a building remains compliant with its Building Warrant of Fitness. But what exactly does an IQP do?
Key Responsibilities of an IQP:
- Inspections & Maintenance – IQPs perform regular checks on specified systems, ensuring they function correctly and meet compliance standards.
- Issuing Form 12As – After completing the necessary inspections and maintenance, IQPs issue Form 12As, confirming that the systems are being properly maintained.
- Reporting to Councils – The completed BWOF and Form 12As must be submitted to the local council for review.
- Providing Compliance Advice – IQPs help building owners understand their compliance obligations and make recommendations for improvements or necessary upgrades.
Firewatch Tauranga's Guy Madams is a registered IQP, authorised to carry out inspections, maintenance, and compliance reporting. We ensure your building safety systems and fire alarm systems meet the required standards and keep your BWOF up to date without hassle. Contact us to book in today.