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‘Earthquake-prone’? What’s that all about?

In the Building Act 2004 earthquake-prone buildings are defined as those that, when subject to moderate earthquake shaking, are likely to cause injury to people or damage to other property. The policy notes what to do when an earthquake-prone building is identified. New Zealand experiences earthquakes of varying intensity and some areas are more prone to earthquakes than others, the policy has been tailored to suit our local circumstances.

Ok then, so what are our ‘local circumstances’?

Franklin District falls mostly within a low seismic zone, which means this isn’t a really big issue for our district but we still need to have a policy to ensure you are safe when ever you use a building in Franklin. The policy adopts a passive approach to identifying earthquake-prone buildings. When a building in our district is subject to change, an alteration, or addition, Franklin District Council will see whether it is an earthquake-prone building that requires upgrading and strengthening.

There are two exceptions to this passive approach. Heritage buildings listed in the District Plan, and specified post-disaster buildings (like fire stations and hospitals) will be actively checked to ensure they aren’t earthquake-prone buildings.

Why doesn't this fit under your Dangerous and Insanitary Building Policy?

In the Building Act 2004 a ‘dangerous building’ specifically excludes the effects of an earthquake, which means we need a policy for earthquake-prone buildings in their own right.