IAONZ launches PROVE the R™ to strengthen insulation installation evidence

The Insulation Association of New Zealand Inc. has launched PROVE the R™: an industry initiative aimed at improving the quality, consistency, and transparency of insulation installation evidence across New Zealand building projects.

The initiative responds to a simple but important issue: specified insulation performance only delivers real building performance when the correct insulation is installed correctly on site.

With increased focus on energy efficiency, H1 compliance, building performance, and long-term comfort for occupants, IAONZ says the sector needs a more consistent approach to proving that insulation has been installed as specified.

PROVE the R™ is built around a clear principle: when insulation is specified, prove it was installed.

IAONZ says that R-values shown on plans, specifications, product documents, or consent records are only part of the performance chain. The final outcome depends on what is actually installed in the building, where it is installed, and whether the installation has been completed without avoidable defects such as gaps, compression, folds, poor fitting, missed areas, or unapproved substitution.

PROVE the R™ encourages builders, installers, designers, Building Consent Authorities, and clients to adopt a practical evidence-based approach to insulation sign-off.

As a recommended minimum, IAONZ says an insulation Evidence Pack should include:

• product identification, including product name, R-value, thickness, and installation location;
• batch, pack, or label traceability;
• delivery documentation or equivalent proof of product supplied to site;
• install-day photographs showing the installed insulation and relevant packaging or labels; and
• an installer declaration confirming the insulation was installed as specified, or that any substitution was approved in writing.

IAONZ says this approach is not intended to create unnecessary administration. Instead, it is intended to support clearer quality assurance, better project records, fairer competition for compliant installers, and greater confidence that specified thermal performance has been delivered on site.

The initiative also highlights the importance of managing insulation product substitutions properly. Where substitutions occur, IAONZ says they should be identified, approved, and supported by evidence showing that the substituted product or system still meets the required performance.

PROVE the R™ forms part of IAONZ’s wider commitment to quality installation, practical training, compliance awareness, and improved building performance across New Zealand.

IAONZ will continue to promote the initiative through its website, LinkedIn channel, member communications, and industry engagement.

When it’s specified, prove it was installed.

Further information is available at:
/prove-the-r