New Zealand’s proposed shift from joint and several liability to proportionate liability under the Building Amendment Bill 2026 (Bill) in the building sector has attracted plenty of discussion. Most of it, so far, has focused on litigation – how will claims be structured, how will proceedings run, and whether claimants will be worse off without… Read More.

A surge in residential construction coupled with economic uncertainty has led to an increase in so-called ‘fixed price’ build contracts.[1] This trend is accompanied by a noticeable rise in disputes and cost claims under the Construction Contracts Act 2002.[2] Law firms are seeing more clients seeking advice before entering into build contracts, and more property… Read More.

In addition to the move to proportionate liability in August 2025, the Government has now announced that it will introduce mandatory home warranties, require all design professionals to have professional indemnity (PI) insurance, and strengthen disciplinary penalties for licensed building practitioners (LBPs). The legislation is expected to be introduced in 2026 and there will be… Read More.

The environmental, social and governance business framework known as ESG has been around for a long time, but how will it affect the construction industry and local authorities? NZCS1, NZCS2 and NSCS3 are new Aotearoa New Zealand Climate Standards – with No.1 being general requirements for climate-related disclosures. These are requirements under the Financial Markets… Read More.