Description

This guidance is intended to assist homeowners and the occupiers of buildings who have been affected by severe weather events.

When a flooding emergency happens and your walls have been damaged, it is likely that the plasterboard will need to be partially, or in some cases, completely replaced. If you have any questions or concerns you should consult your local council, an engineer or other building professional or tradesperson.

This guide should be read in conjunction with any guidance from your local building consent authority and/or insurance company.

The information applies to newer homes that have been built in accordance with the current Building Code.

For older homes with types of construction no longer used, such as lathe and plaster requiring substantial repairs, consider consulting a designer, engineer or a builder who is a Licenced Building Practitioner (LBP) before you remove or replace plasterboard.

Scope

This guide covers:

• Repair and replacement of wall linings (plasterboard) damaged by flooding
  • Before you start
  • Identifying potential damage to plasterboard linings
  • Why you should repair plasterboard linings
  • Removing and replacing plasterboard
• Different types and purposes of plasterboard
  • Plasterboard that contributes to bracing of a building
  • Plasterboard in areas splashed by water
  • Plasterboard on walls separating houses (intertenancy walls)
  • Plasterboard on walls close to boundaries
• Regulations relating to the repair and replacement of plasterboard
  • Using a different plasterboard brand