MBIE Publishes New Seismic Risk Resource for Commercial Tenants

In a country where seismic activity poses a significant threat, understanding the structural stability of commercial buildings is paramount for tenants and property owners alike. Recognising this critical need, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has taken proactive steps to address seismic concerns by offering a comprehensive resource tailored specifically for commercial building tenants.

The MBIE Seismic Risk Resource for Commercial Building Tenants released in April 2024 (MBIE Guide) serves as a guide to assist commercial building tenants who are:

• seeking to lease a building;
• reviewing new information that impacts the understanding of the seismic risk of the building they occupy (e.g. a seismic assessment report);
• re-evaluating the suitability of a current lease; or
• going through the process of renewing a lease.

The MBIE Guide has been drafted to be easily accessible to commercial tenants with limited experience in considering seismic risk information, as it provides practical steps for assessing the seismic resilience of their premises.

The MBIE Guide offers a systematic approach to enhancing preparedness and resilience – from understanding building assessments and reports to identifying potential vulnerabilities and implementing risk mitigation strategies.

The MBIE Guide also outlines the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants concerning seismic risk management. It emphasises the importance of collaboration and communication between parties to ensure that appropriate measures are taken to mitigate risks and maintain a safe working environment.

In a country where earthquakes are a reality, proactive measures such as those outlined in this resource are essential for minimising the impact of seismic events on businesses and communities. The MBIE’s initiative underscores the government’s commitment to promoting safety and resilience in the built environment and ensuring that businesses are well-equipped to withstand and recover from seismic events.

Want to know more?

The MBIE Guide is available HERE

If you have any questions about the MBIE Guide or want to discuss seismic considerations when entering into a new lease, please contact our specialist Property Team.

View the pdf version of this article here.