Jenée Tibshraeny: Proceed with caution, building reforms aren't weathertight

PremiumOpinionOpinion byJenée TibshraenyWellington Business Editor·NZ Herald·3 Jul, 2026 07:00 PM6 mins to readWellington Business Editor, Jenée Tibshraeny, covers business, the economy and public policy for the Business Herald.‌The Government can't be certain insurers and warranty providers will provide widespread coverage of building work. Photo / 123rfThe Government risks hurting the very ratepayers it is trying to protect by changing who is liable for defective home building.

It is trying to prevent those with the deepest pockets – such as local councils that issue building consents – from being left with the bill if building