SAVING THE HOME SHOP: THE FUTURE OF SMALL EARTHQUAKE PRONE BUILDINGS IN NEW ZEALAND

Abstract The New Zealand Government is in the process of considering a law that would require all commercial, multi unit and multi-storey residential buildings upgraded and strengthened to a minimum of 35 % or more of the New Building Standard. Buildings so designated will have up to 15 years from the end of the review period to bring their buildings into line with these requirements. The proposal particularly affects old buildings constructed in unreinforced brick masonry. Many of these are home shop buildings with some heritage value, built around the turn of the 20th Century. Together they make up a considerable portion of many small town commercial precincts. The proposed legislation will affect all parts of New Zealand, regardless of the particular region’s exposure to earthquake risk. The implications of the upgrade are significant, both for owners and for townscape to which they belong. If the cost puts the viability of the building at risk, the owner will be in a position where demolition is the only feasible option. This could have far reaching implications for the wellbeing of many small towns within New Zealand. The Governments decisions follow on from some of the recommendations of th