Granny flat rules may exacerbate an ongoing issue
The Government is proposing changes to make it easier to build granny flats. We support moves to make housing more affordable and available, but we don't want changes to inflate an already existing safety problem when building near power lines.
Many building owners and people in the building sector are unaware of the legal obligation to comply with the New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances (ECP34) which has mandatory minimum safe distances for excavation and construction near power lines.
Where a building is not ECP34 compliant, wind swaying a line or a tree falling may push a live line into the building. The line touching the building can cause an electrical fault, leading to a spark or arc. If the spark ignites flammable materials, it could pose a significant fire risk. There is also the risk of death or serious injury to people on the property if they contact material that has been livened by the electricity line.
To safeguard against the risk of non-compliance, we're recommending that if granny flats are to be exempt from building consents, there should be a further requirement to remain clear of electrical power infrastructure. We proposed that the requirement of ECP34 compliance should be included within the Building Code so granny flats — and other buildings — can be built safely.
