Yes, a qualified glazier can provide a producer statement to support building consent compliance in New Zealand. Producer statements are a recognised tool under the NZ building consent system, and a PS3 (Construction) issued by a competent glazier confirms that the glazing work has been installed in accordance with the NZ Building Code and any relevant consent conditions. Understanding how this works can save you time and stress when completing a building project.
What Is a Producer Statement?
A producer statement is a written declaration from a suitably qualified person confirming that specific work complies with the NZ Building Code. There are several types, but the two most relevant to glazing are:
- PS1 (Design) – Provided by a designer or engineer confirming the design meets code requirements.
- PS3 (Construction) – Provided by the tradesperson or contractor confirming the work has been installed as designed and meets code.
Producer statements are not a substitute for a building consent, but they are accepted by many territorial authorities (councils) as supporting evidence during the consent and code compliance certificate (CCC) process. MBIE Building Performance provides detailed guidance on how producer statements fit within the building consent framework.
When Would a Glazier Need to Provide a PS3?
Not all glazing work requires a producer statement. However, you are likely to need one when:
- Safety glazing is installed in a critical location (e.g., shower screens, low-level panels, doors, or areas where people could fall against glass) as defined under NZS 4223.
- Structural glazing or curtain wall systems are part of a consented building project.
- Replacement glazing in a consented building requires documentation for the CCC.
- A council inspector requests evidence of compliance as part of the inspection process.
- The glazing forms part of weathertightness compliance under Building Code clause E2 (External Moisture).
Always check with your local council whether a producer statement is required for your specific project, as requirements can vary between territorial authorities.
What Standard Applies to Glazing in NZ?
The key standard governing glazing in New Zealand is NZS 4223: Glazing in Buildings, which covers:
- Selection of glass types and thicknesses
- Safety glazing in critical locations
- Wind load requirements
- Framing and installation requirements
A glazier providing a PS3 should be able to confirm that their work complies with NZS 4223 and any other applicable Building Code clauses. You can find information on NZ standards through Standards NZ.
Who Can Provide a PS3 for Glazing?
A PS3 must be provided by someone who is competent to assess and confirm compliance. For glazing, this is typically:
- A qualified glazier with relevant trade experience and knowledge of NZS 4223.
- A glazing contractor operating under a quality management system.
- In some cases, a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) with a relevant licence class may be involved, though glazing is not currently a standalone LBP licence class.
The person signing the PS3 takes on legal responsibility for the accuracy of that statement, so it is important that the glazier is genuinely competent and experienced. You can find information about the LBP scheme at Licensed Building Practitioners.
What Should a PS3 from a Glazier Include?
A well-prepared producer statement from a glazier should include:
| Element | Detail |
|---|---|
| Project address | Full site address |
| Consent number | The relevant building consent reference |
| Scope of work | Description of glazing installed |
| Standards referenced | e.g., NZS 4223, Building Code clauses |
| Declaration | Statement that work complies |
| Glazier's details | Name, company, contact, signature |
| Date | Date of completion/inspection |
Some councils have their own PS3 template — check with your council before the glazier prepares the document.
Does Glazing Work Require a Building Consent?
This depends on the scope of work. Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004 lists exemptions from building consent, and some minor glazing repairs or like-for-like replacements may be exempt. However, new glazing installations, structural glazing, or changes that affect weathertightness or safety are likely to require consent. Always confirm with your local council before assuming work is exempt — getting this wrong can cause problems when you sell your property or make an insurance claim.
MBIE Building Performance has useful guidance on building consent exemptions.
When to Call a Professional
Glazing in critical locations, structural applications, or as part of a consented project should always be carried out by a qualified, experienced glazier. Attempting to install safety glazing yourself without the right knowledge risks non-compliance and, more importantly, serious injury. A professional glazier will:
- Know which glass type and thickness is required by NZS 4223.
- Install work correctly and be able to back it with a PS3.
- Liaise with your council if needed.
You can find qualified local glaziers on tradedirectory.co.nz to ensure you're working with someone who understands NZ compliance requirements.
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