As a result of COVID 19 alert levels restricting the way we work, we have developed a remote virtual solid fuel heater (SFH) inspection as an alternative process for these types of inspections.

Fireplace installer criteria

A virtual SFH inspection can only be undertaken if the wood burner fireplace is freestanding and has been installed by a member of the NZ Home Heating Association (NZHHA), or a suitably qualified and experienced tradesperson, or a currently registered certifying plumber.

Note: Inbuilt SFH inspections requirements will be considered on a case by case basis.

Virtual inspection documentation requirements

You must provide the following for Council to review:

  • the installers NZHHA member number or certifying plumbers registration number, or evidence to support suitable qualifications for the tradesperson
  • a completed PS3 Producer Statement
  • clear and current photos to support a compliant installation
  • completed online AlphaOne CCC application.

Photos are to be a minimum of:

  • the flashing on the roof
  • fire box hold down seismic restraints in place
  • the tag attached to fire appliance showing make, model and serial number
  • all side and back clearances of the fireplace with a tape measure in the photo clearly showing the measurements
  • the fireplace within the room including the flue
  • an exterior elevation of the house which includes the flue and roof cladding, and also showing flue height above roof/ridge, with a copy of the consent number in the photo
  • all smoke alarms in relation to sleeping rooms/floor levels
  • hearth size (using tape) including seismic restraints
  • ceiling cap and liner spacings from timber ceiling battens and trusses.

Virtual video inspection

  • A final inspection can be booked when all documentation and photos have been uploaded to the building consent through the AlphaOne required documents portal
  • A video call or Zoom meeting will then be scheduled with an inspector to be shown around the installation to verify the installation is as per the documentation provided
  • Please have a ladder, torch and tape measure available
  • The inspector will complete a site inspection notice as per normal procedure and issue a copy of this to the owner and the installer
  • If the inspection is a fail, the notice will identify the information to be provided or remedial work to be carried out and the CCC application will be placed on hold.

Online code compliance certificate (CCC) application

To support the online application for CCC we will need the completed PS3 Producer Statement and photos (provided as one file) uploaded into Step 4 of the application prior to submitting.

If the virtual SFH inspection and review is passed and complete, the code compliance certificate will be issued in due course.