How the Framework Works
BS 8102:2022 aligned with the New Zealand Building Code
A clear, structured approach to below-ground waterproofing design, documentation and consent.
Our framework brings together the principles of BS 8102:2022 with the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code, creating a practical process for assessing risk, selecting the appropriate waterproofing strategy and documenting the design.
The aim is simple: to give designers, engineers, contractors, clients and councils greater confidence in the waterproofing design and consent process.
BS 8102 and NZBC — Working Together
BS 8102:2022 provides a recognised methodology for assessing below-ground waterproofing risk and developing an appropriate waterproofing strategy.
Our framework uses those principles alongside the relevant requirements of the New Zealand Building Code, creating a clear design and documentation pathway.
The result is a process that is easier to understand, easier to document and easier to review.
EXAMPLE FRAMEWORK
BS 8102 + NZBC: A Clearer Pathway
Good waterproofing design starts with the right questions. BS 8102:2022 provides a structured approach to below-ground waterproofing. Used alongside the New Zealand Building Code and relevant standards, it can help designers and project teams establish a clear, risk-based pathway from initial assessment through to construction.
The five steps below show how that process can work in practice.
Establish what the space is intended to be used for and the level of dryness and environmental performance required.
NZBC performance intent, particularly External Moisture and the functional requirements of the proposed space.
A clear statement of intended use, risk level and expected performance.
Design brief, room use schedule and performance requirements.
Determine the required environmental grade under BS 8102 based on the intended use and expected level of internal environment.
NZBC moisture performance expectations and project-specific functional requirements.
A clear and defensible rationale for the waterproofing performance level being designed.
Basis of design report, waterproofing strategy and performance requirements.
Review groundwater, site conditions, flood risk and the potential consequences of water ingress or system failure.
NZBC durability and moisture requirements, supported by geotechnical, drainage and site-specific information.
A site-specific assessment demonstrating that the waterproofing design is based on actual conditions rather than assumption.
Geotechnical report, groundwater information, drainage strategy, flood data and risk assessment.
Select Type A, Type B, Type C or a combined waterproofing approach based on the structure, risk and required performance.
Establish the appropriate NZBC consent and compliance pathway, which may require an Alternative Solution for below-ground waterproofing.
A clear rationale explaining why the selected protection type suits the structure, intended use and risk profile.
System selection matrix, product information, appraisal or certification, design notes and supporting technical information.
Demonstrate continuity of the waterproofing strategy, buildability, detailing and the measures required to achieve long-term performance.
Provide the information required to support the NZBC compliance pathway, consent process, durability requirements and construction verification.
Enough information for the design to be reviewed, priced, constructed, inspected and maintained with confidence.
Drawings, performance specification, design documentation, producer statements where applicable, QA requirements and maintenance information.
Example only — final compliance requirements will vary depending on structure type, intended use, site conditions and the selected consent pathway.