Abstract:

This report summarises the results of on-site inspections of the physical condition of over 400 houses in 1993/94. The inspections were carried out by BRANZ staff. A total of 26 components in each house were assessed on a five point condition scale. The nature of any defect and the material types were recorded. A further 14 attributes were recorded including sub-floor moisture content, types of space heating devices, and types of thermal insulation. The study concluded that the worst defects relate to inadequate sub-floor vents, non-restraint of header tanks against earthquakes, foundations, claddings, linings and windows.