In New Zealand’s construction and engineering industries, regulatory compliance and accountability are critical to ensuring safe, durable, and code-compliant buildings. One of the essential tools that facilitate this compliance is the Producer Statement PS1 (Design). This document serves as a professional assurance from a qualified expert, confirming that specific design elements meet the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC). This article explores the role of PS1 in construction, its significance in the building consent process, who issues it, and how it integrates into the wider compliance ecosystem.
What is a Producer Statement PS1?
A Producer Statement PS1 is a formal document provided by a qualified design professional typically a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or a registered architect. It confirms that the design work for a specific part of a construction project complies with the NZ Building Code and all relevant standards.
Key Functions:
- Declares that the design meets Building Code performance criteria
- Supports building consent applications
- Provides accountability from a professional engineer or architect
The Role of Producer Statement PS1 in the Building Consent Process
Local councils (territorial authorities) require applicants to prove their building designs meet code requirements. A PS1 often accompanies the building consent application as proof of compliance for specialized or complex aspects of the project.
Common Scenarios Where PS1 Is Required:
- Structural engineering designs
- Fire safety systems
- Civil or geotechnical works
- Façade or cladding systems
By submitting a PS1, the professional takes design responsibility, allowing councils to focus on areas outside the scope of the producer statement.
Who Can Issue a Producer Statement PS1?
A PS1 must be issued by a suitably qualified and experienced professional. In most cases, this includes:
- Chartered Professional Engineers (CPEng)
- Registered Architects
- Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) (in limited cases)
These professionals must be able to demonstrate competence in the specific field of design and often hold indemnity insurance.
Contents of a Producer Statement PS1
A Producer Statement PS1 form typically includes the following:
- Project details (address, client, description)
- The scope of design work being certified
- References to relevant codes and standards
- Declaration of compliance with NZBC
- Signature and credentials of the professional
- Date and contact information
PS1s are usually accompanied by design drawings, calculations, and specifications.
How Producer Statement PS1 Interacts with Other Producer Statements
There are four main types of producer statements in New Zealand, each covering a different stage of the design and construction lifecycle:
- PS1 (Design): Confirms the design meets compliance standards
- PS2 (Design Review): Peer review by another qualified expert
- PS3 (Construction): Statement from the contractor that work was built as designed
- PS4 (Construction Review): Issued by the original designer after site inspections to confirm compliance during construction
In many projects, a PS1 will be followed by a PS4 to ensure continuity from design to completion.
Why Producer Statement PS1 Matters to Developers, Builders, and Councils
The PS1 plays a vital role in streamlining the building consent process and assuring design quality and legal accountability. For developers and builders, it reduces delays and minimizes the need for councils to engage third-party reviewers. For councils, it provides reliable documentation that specific components of a design meet the required standards.
Key Benefits:
- Enhances design accountability
- Reduces council processing times
- Minimizes risk of non-compliance
- Protects public safety through verified design integrity
Limitations and Responsibilities
While PS1 is a powerful tool, it is not a guarantee of performance; rather, it is a professional opinion of compliance. Councils may still request additional documentation or peer reviews (PS2), especially for high-risk or complex projects.
Professionals issuing PS1s are responsible for:
- Ensuring their design is thorough and compliant
- Holding appropriate qualifications and insurance
- Following through with site observation (leading to PS4, if applicable)
Conclusion
The Producer Statement PS1 is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s construction regulatory framework. It provides confidence that the design aspects of a building project meet safety, performance, and code requirements. For developers, builders, and councils, PS1 streamlines the consent process and enhances accountability.
If your project involves specialized design work, working with experienced professionals who can issue a robust PS1 is crucial. Our team offers qualified design services and full documentation support to ensure your building consent process is efficient and compliant.
