​Why people are more important than buildings.

A 5.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Christchurch on 14th February 2016, almost five years to the day since the 6.3 magnitude jolt that killed 185, served as a stark reminder of the need for us to feel safe at work, home and play. It was also a reminder that a building needs to have a current Building Warrant of Fitness, not for its own sake, but for its inhabitants.

Of course, not every danger that a building should to be equipped for is a force of nature; all to often we take for granted other measures that should be in place to protect the people that reside in our buildings. This means that maintenance and checks of a building’s systems can sometimes be overlooked, leaving its inhabitants with: 

• Faulty lifts, (as this article illustrates)
• Fire alarms that have not been tested
• Sprinklers that lack water pressure
• Emergency lights that are not connected

These are the things that people need in an emergency, and yet they could be the very things that don't work because no one has maintained them or checked them. American architect and real estate developer, John Portman, once said, “Buildings should serve people, not the other way around.” I couldn’t agree more and that’s why I like to connect people with information so they can make informed decisions about buying or leasing property. If you are a commercial building owner or facility manager, I'd like to talk to you, so I can inform, educate and inspire you with real stories about real people who reside in New Zealand’s buildings. I’ll let you in on some secrets too!

Within my training courses I always aim to bring people to the forefront. It’s human nature that we’re more likely to remember something if it resonates with us on a personal level. So you’ll find that I don’t stand at the front of a seminar spouting boring old stuffy Building Law.

Did you know the rules around Building Warrants of Fitness have changed? If you want to know how, but more importantly want to know why… I can help. 

Register for my BWOF Rules for Building Owners and Property Managers in Auckland or in Christchurch  this informative session will give you the latest information on your role as the owner as well as furnishing you with a clear understanding about the role of the Council. 
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I can’t wait to see you there and find out more about you!

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