In the world of construction compliance and certification in New Zealand, Producer Statements (PS) serve as critical documentation to verify the integrity of a building project at each stage. Among these, Producer Statement PS4 is the final assurance, confirming that construction work has been reviewed and meets the standards outlined in the original design. This article explores the role, significance, and process of PS4 in New Zealand building projects, and how it supports the issuing of a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC).

What is a Producer Statement PS4?

Producer Statement PS4 is a formal declaration provided by the design engineer or design professional (usually the same individual who issued PS1), confirming that the construction has been carried out in accordance with the approved design documentation.

Core Purpose:

• Certifies that construction matches the design submitted in PS1
• Verifies that on-site practices adhered to safety, performance, and regulatory standards
• Supports the application for Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) from the council

Who Issues a Producer Statement PS4?

A Producer Statement PS4 is issued by the Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or qualified design professional who was responsible for the Producer Statement PS1 (Design Statement). In cases where another professional conducts the construction monitoring, the issuer must still have the necessary qualifications and authority.

Common Issuers:

• Structural Engineers
• Building Services Engineers
• Fire Engineers

What Does Producer Statement PS4 Cover?

A valid Producer Statement PS4 covers all critical aspects of the construction as related to the original design and includes:

• Confirmation that all work complies with the PS1 design
• Site observation records
• Notes on construction monitoring frequency and findings
• Identification of any deviations and resolutions

Typical Inclusions:

• Project details and site address
• Engineer’s credentials and registration
• Description of work observed
• Statement of compliance with NZ Building Code

Importance of Producer Statement PS4 in the Compliance Process

Producer Statement PS4 serves as the bridge between completed construction and official compliance certification. It allows the council to confidently issue a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) based on:

• Independent engineering verification
• Monitored execution
• Documented assurance of quality and safety

Why It Matters:

• Demonstrates final accountability
• Reduces liability for councils
• Confirms structural safety for building occupants

The Producer Statement PS4 Process: Step-by-Step

To issue a Producer Statement PS4, the following process is typically followed:

1. Construction Monitoring: The design engineer performs regular site visits throughout the construction phase.
2. Site Reports: Findings from these visits are documented.
3. Compliance Review: Any deviations are noted, and solutions are implemented.
4. Final Review: Upon project completion, the engineer assesses the overall compliance.
5. Issuance of PS4: A formal statement is submitted to the BCA for CCC application.

Relation to Other Producer Statements

Producer Statement PS4 fits into a sequence of producer statements that represent a collaborative chain of assurance:

• PS1 (Design): Certifies compliance of the proposed design
• PS2 (Design Review): Independent review of the design
• PS3 (Construction): Confirms that installation or fabrication was performed correctly
• PS4 (Construction Review): Final verification that built work matches design

This suite ensures end-to-end quality, accountability, and code compliance.

Limitations of Producer Statement PS4

While Producer Statement PS4 provides critical assurance, it comes with limitations and responsibilities:

• It only covers the work explicitly observed
• It cannot verify areas not accessible during site visits
• It does not substitute for regulatory inspections, where required
• It is limited to the elements designed by the issuer

Therefore, engineers must clearly document the scope of work reviewed.

Benefits of Producer Statement PS4 for Stakeholders

Producer Statement PS4 offers multiple advantages to different parties in a building project:

For Councils:

• Minimizes inspection load
• Provides third-party confirmation
• Assists in CCC decision-making

For Developers and Builders:

• Speeds up project close-out
• Demonstrates commitment to safety
• Ensures high quality and regulatory approval

For Engineers:

• Reinforces professional credibility
• Fulfills legal and ethical responsibilities

Conclusion

Producer Statement PS4 represents the final checkpoint in ensuring that a building has been constructed to the standard originally designed and consented. By having qualified professionals observe and certify compliance, PS4 contributes significantly to the building’s integrity, safety, and certification. Whether you’re a developer, contractor, or council official, understanding the purpose and value of PS4 is key to delivering successful, code-compliant buildings in New Zealand.

For expert support in preparing, reviewing, or issuing producer statements including PS1 through PS4, contact our specialist team today.