In the framework of New Zealand’s building consent process, each phase of a project requires verification to ensure safety, performance, and compliance. After design reviews and consents, the spotlight shifts to construction execution. Producer Statement PS3 (Construction) plays a vital role in this phase by affirming that specific building work has been carried out in accordance with approved plans and specifications. This article provides a comprehensive look at what PS3 is, who issues it, when it is required, and how it contributes to project assurance.

What is a Producer Statement PS3?

A Producer Statement PS3 is a document issued by a contractor, fabricator, or installer who has completed part of the physical construction. It declares that the work was performed in line with the approved design documents, often represented by a PS1, and meets the relevant performance standards.

Key Functions:

• Confirms that construction aligns with approved drawings and specifications
• Demonstrates professional accountability
• Supports the Building Code compliance certification

When Is Producer Statement PS3 Required?

Producer Statement PS3 is typically required for:

• Specialist trades (e.g., membrane roofing, structural steel fabrication, fire-stopping systems)
• Proprietary systems or installations not easily verified by inspectors
• Construction elements involving prefabricated or factory-assembled components

The Producer Statement PS3 is often requested by local councils before issuing the Code Compliance Certificate (CCC).

Who Can Issue a Producer Statement PS3?

A Producer Statement PS3 must be issued by the person or company directly responsible for the physical construction or installation work. This could be:

• Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs)
• Certified installers of proprietary systems
• Subcontractors handling specialized installations

The issuer must have demonstrable qualifications or product certifications to support their claim.

What Does a Producer Statement PS3 Contain?

A valid Producer Statement PS3 typically includes:

• Details of the project and site location
• Name and qualifications of the issuer
• Description and scope of work performed
• Reference to the associated PS1 or approved design documents
• Confirmation that the work complies with relevant codes and manufacturer requirements

Optional attachments may include photos, test results, or certificates of product compliance.

Producer Statement PS3 and Its Role in the Producer Statement Suite

Producer Statement PS3 fits within the broader Producer Statement framework used across building projects:

1. PS1 (Design): Issued by a designer to show design compliance
2. PS2 (Design Review): Independent peer review of the design
3. PS3 (Construction): Issued by the contractor to confirm proper execution of work
4. PS4 (Construction Review): Final review of construction by the PS1 author

Together, these documents streamline the building consent and certification process while distributing responsibility across all parties.

How Councils Use Producer Statement PS3

Local Building Consent Authorities (BCAs) use Producer Statement PS3s to:

• Support the decision to issue a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
• Avoid repeated on-site inspections for certain types of work
• Confirm that work has been executed to specification by qualified personnel

However, a Producer Statement PS3 alone may not be sufficient it often needs to be supported by a PS4, third-party certifications, or visual inspections.

Benefits of Producer Statement PS3 for Project Stakeholders

For developers, builders, and councils, PS3 offers clear benefits:

Advantages:

• Documents the construction quality and adherence to plans
• Reduces delays in CCC issuance
• Adds accountability and traceability
• Demonstrates compliance with product manufacturer instructions

This assurance is especially valuable when dealing with proprietary or specialist systems.

Limitations and Considerations

While Producer Statement PS3 provides valuable documentation, it does not carry the same weight as a PS4 issued by a Chartered Professional Engineer. Some limitations include:

• May not be accepted alone for high-risk elements
• Cannot substitute for licensed professional oversight where required
• Does not replace council inspections if deemed necessary

It should be considered one component in a broader compliance toolkit.

Conclusion

Producer Statement PS3 is a critical document that verifies construction work has been executed according to approved designs and to acceptable standards. It plays an essential role in ensuring that specialized or complex installations meet Building Code requirements and supports the council in issuing compliance certificates. For accurate and compliant Producer Statement PS3 documentation, make sure your contractors and installers are qualified and familiar with local regulations.

For professional guidance on building documentation and compliance services, contact our expert team today.