06/05/2026
Worth a read from the NZHHA 👇
In summary, there has been an increase of misleading advice and unqualified operators in the woodburner and fireplace industry, so it’s more important than ever to make sure you’re dealing with properly certified professionals.
For peace of mind, always check your installer is NZHHA certified before going ahead with any woodburner installation, servicing, or inspection.
As a side note, Bio Flow Plumbing is proud to be Whanganui’s only NZHHA certified installer of wood burners, ensuring all work is done safely and to the correct standards.
Stay informed and protect your home 🏠
⚠️ IMPORTANT NOTICE FROM THE NZHHA ⚠️
It has come to the attention of the NZHHA, local Building Consent Authorities (BCAs), and NZ Police that there are operators within the industry claiming to hold NZHHA SFAIT or SFAST certification when records indicate they are not currently certified, and in some cases may never have held certification.
We have also received reports of homeowners being provided with documentation or advice that may not meet NZHHA certification standards. In some cases, homeowners have reportedly been told that their fireplace has been “condemned” and that the matter is required to be reported to the local BCA.
The NZHHA wishes to clarify that BCAs do not operate a system for recording or registering “condemned” domestic fireplaces in the manner being represented. Independent assessments carried out by properly certified NZHHA members have, in most instances, found that replacement or reinstallation work advised to homeowners was not required.
The NZHHA takes these concerns seriously. All NZHHA members are required to follow our Code of Conduct and uphold professional, ethical, and compliant industry practices at all times.
To help protect yourself, we strongly recommend using registered and currently certified NZHHA members for fireplace sweeping, servicing, inspections, and installations.
You can verify qualified NZHHA members here:
👉 nzhha.co.nz/find-a-service
If you believe you may have been affected by misleading or improper practices, we encourage you to seek independent advice and, where appropriate, contact NZ Police to lodge a complaint. You are also welcome to contact the NZHHA for guidance or assistance on 06 390 6391.
Thank you for supporting professional and compliant industry standards.