NZ Building Code

Installation of solar water heating systems is regulated by the need for Building Consents from local Councils. To obtain a Building Consent the system installer needs to demonstrate to the Council Building Inspectors that the system installation will meet the NZ Building Code. The Code establishes the standards for installation. In particular for safe loading on roofs and safe supply of potable water.

The Solar Association Code of Practice sets out for Councils, the solar industry, and the public the compliance standards and good installation practices that all installations should achieve. These are set out in Clause G12 of the Code. Compliance can be achieved by installations being done to meet the Acceptable Solution G12/ASI. A specific Acceptable Solution for SWH (G12/AS2) is in preparation and a draft is available here.