Why Independent Inspections & IQPs Matter 

There are no cutting corners when it comes to building compliance. 

Independent building inspections carried out by registered IQPs are essential for keeping your property legal, safe, and operational. Unlike council or internal checks, independent inspections give you complete transparency and confidence for your Building Warrant of Fitness (BWOF) and long-term building safety. 

Under the Building Act, most commercial properties must maintain key safety systems called specified systems. These need to be inspected regularly by an Independent Qualified Person (IQP). Miss these inspections and you risk: 

  • Fines from the council 
  • BWOF delays or rejection 
  • Liability in the event of an incident 
  • Insurance claim issues 

Argest is a national leader in building compliance services, trusted by schools, hospitals, retail centres, government agencies, and private building owners across New Zealand. Our focus? Keeping your buildings safe, legal, and low stress to manage. 

Independent Building Inspections 

What We Do as Independent Building Inspectors 

An independent building inspector is not employed by your property manager, not tied to a product manufacturer and not looking to upsell repairs. We’re 100% focused on compliance, safety and documentation. 

Inspections may be required: 

  • Annually (for the BWOF) 
  • Six-monthly (for some high-risk systems) 
  • After construction or refurbishment 
  • Post-system remediation 
  • Before issuing a 12A Certificate 
  • During regular maintenance checks by building owners or facility managers 

Inspection Points We Cover 

  • Passive fire system condition 
  • Emergency lighting function 
  • HVAC and mechanical checks 
  • Alarm testing 
  • Doors, controls, and access systems 
  • Backflow prevention 
  • System documentation and schedules 
  • Reporting and recommendations issued promptly 

We’re transparent, reliable and cost-effective. Looking for an independent building inspector cost? Argest offers nationwide service with fixed pricing available for portfolio clients. 

Need a quick quote? Talk to our team. 

IQP Inspections: Meeting Your BWOF Requirements 

An IQP is a person approved by your local Territorial Authority and qualified to inspect specified systems under the NZ Building Act. To legally renew your Building Warrant of Fitness, you need current IQP inspections and signed 12A certificates for each system marked on your compliance schedule. 

What Makes an Argest IQP Different? 

Our inspectors aren’t just technically registered. They’re constantly upskilled, QA-reviewed and customer-focused. 

  • NZQA Level 4 Passive Fire (IQP Stream) 
  • Monthly technical training forums and site workshops 
  • National memberships: FPANZ, BOINZ, Association of Building Compliance 
  • ISO-9001 certified processes 
  • Customer service training focused on building manager experience 

See more from our IQP Training Camp here 

Specified Systems Covered by Argest IQPs 

Argest’s IQPs cover various specified systems required under NZ’s compliance schedule framework. 

Here’s What We Inspect 

  • Passive Systems –  specialising in fire and smoke separations: Prevents spread of fire and smoke 
  • Emergency lighting: Ensures safe exit routes 
  • Riser Mains 
  • Backflow prevention: Stops contaminated water entering supply 

 

Need help identifying what’s on your system schedule? Contact our compliance team for a full review. 

Why Choose Argest 

We don’t just show up and cut corners. We set the national standard for IQP quality, training, and compliance reporting. 

Why Property & Facility Managers Trust Us 

  • Truly independent: No repairs = no conflict 
  • Total compliance coverage: All specified systems + BWOF 
  • Fast, clear reporting: Online tools, real-time visibility 
  • Trained and registered experts: CPD + formal qualifications 
  • Site-ready and customer-focused: Clean, safe, professional 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is an IQP and why do I need one? An IQP is an Independent Qualified Person registered by council who is legally able to inspect specified systems in your building. Their sign-off is required to issue your BWOF. 

How much does an independent building inspector cost in NZ? Pricing depends on the number and type of systems in your compliance schedule. Argest provides upfront pricing and cost certainty. 

How often are IQP inspections required? Usually once every 12 months. Some systems need more frequent checks like six-monthly or owner inspections each month. 

Can Argest manage our IQP inspections and BWOF together? Yes. We offer full ongoing compliance management, including scheduling, inspections, 12As, and BWOF submissions. 

Get Started Today

Safeguard your property. Ensure legal compliance. Minimise financial risk and operational disruption or 

Protect your building. Ensure legal compliance. Prevent costly penalties and avoid operational disruption 

Argest delivers trusted, qualified and independent IQP inspections across New Zealand. 

  • Nationwide service 
  • Passive fire specialists 
  • Fast reporting portal 
  • 12A and BWOF service available 
  • Friendly, knowledgeable technicians 

Call 0800 274 378 or book online now 

Stay safe. Stay compliant. Stay confident with Argest. 

Here’s What We Inspect 

  • Passive Systems –  specialising in fire and smoke separations: Prevents spread of fire and smoke 
  • Emergency lighting: Ensures safe exit routes 
  • Riser Mains 
  • Backflow prevention: Stops contaminated water entering supply 

Need help identifying what’s on your system schedule? Contact our compliance team for a full review.