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Frame and roof

Roof framing

Install trusses, rafters, beams, purlins, bracing, tie-downs, and roof support systems before roofing and ceiling linings hide the structure.

roof framingtrussesrafterspurlins6 common tradesLast reviewed 11 August 2026

How to execute this stage

Micro-stage control plan

Work through each applicable step in order. A hold point means pause the dependent decision or work until the stated evidence and authorised review are complete.

3 structured steps
  1. 01Check truss layout, orientation, bearing points, fixings, bracing, penetrations, and engineer/supplier installation requirementsLevel 2 · Frame and roof
    TaskCheckHold pointEvidenceRecordNext action

    Simple explanation

    Check truss layout, orientation, bearing points, fixings, bracing, penetrations, and engineer/supplier installation requirements.

    Technical context

    Coordinate this work against Truss layout, Truss design producer statement, the current consent status, and the actual site condition. Confirm interfaces before releasing dependent work.

    Why it matters: The main recorded risk is: Incorrect truss placement. A missed check can create rework, delay, hidden defects, an inspection failure, or a departure from approved project documents.

    Prerequisites

    • Truss layout is current, approved for the intended use, and available to the people doing the work.
    • Truss design producer statement and relevant product information have been checked.
    • Access, responsibility, safety controls, preceding work and the roof framing inspection sequence are confirmed.

    Checks

    • Check the completed work against Truss layout and Truss design producer statement.
    • Check specifically for: Incorrect truss placement.
    • Avoid this known mistake: Cutting trusses without design approval.

    Evidence to save

    • Wide, location-identifying and close-up photographs of the completed roof framing work before it is concealed.
    • Marked-up Truss layout or a precise drawing/detail reference.
    • Roof framing inspection result, consultant record, trade QA record or written not-applicable reason.

    Hold point

    Do not cover, backfill, load, connect, certify or release the next activity until Roof framing inspection and the required project evidence are complete or the authorised reviewer confirms what may proceed.

    Stop or escalate when

    • Incorrect truss placement
    • Cutting trusses without design approval
    • The current drawing, approval, competent reviewer or required evidence cannot be confirmed.

    Documents and records

    • Truss layout
    • Truss design producer statement
    • Current RFI/site-instruction/change record
    • Inspection and evidence register
    Cost effect
    Rectification, reinspection, delay, damaged follow-on work, access loss and changed scope can increase the cost of roof framing. Record the cause and obtain written pricing before approving a commercial change.
    Programme effect
    This activity controls the release of dependent work. Update the lookahead programme and notify affected trades if the hold point, information, inspection or evidence is not ready.

    Next action

    Confirm roof planes, valleys, hips, gables, overhangs, fascia lines, and roof drainage can be built as detailed.

    Applicability: Apply when this work package is included in the current project scope. Confirm project-specific consent, contract, design, site and authority requirements.

    Use the current consented/issued project documents and competent site review. BuildPath does not approve work.

  2. 02Confirm roof planes, valleys, hips, gables, overhangs, fascia lines, and roof drainage can be built as detailedLevel 2 · Frame and roof
    TaskCheckHold pointEvidenceRecordNext action

    Simple explanation

    Confirm roof planes, valleys, hips, gables, overhangs, fascia lines, and roof drainage can be built as detailed.

    Technical context

    Coordinate this work against Roof framing plan, Fixing schedule, the current consent status, and the actual site condition. Confirm interfaces before releasing dependent work.

    Why it matters: The main recorded risk is: Missing bracing. A missed check can create rework, delay, hidden defects, an inspection failure, or a departure from approved project documents.

    Prerequisites

    • Roof framing plan is current, approved for the intended use, and available to the people doing the work.
    • Fixing schedule and relevant product information have been checked.
    • Access, responsibility, safety controls, preceding work and the engineer/truss supplier check where required sequence are confirmed.

    Checks

    • Check the completed work against Roof framing plan and Fixing schedule.
    • Check specifically for: Missing bracing.
    • Avoid this known mistake: Wrong fixing/brace pattern.

    Evidence to save

    • Wide, location-identifying and close-up photographs of the completed roof framing work before it is concealed.
    • Marked-up Roof framing plan or a precise drawing/detail reference.
    • Engineer/truss supplier check where required result, consultant record, trade QA record or written not-applicable reason.

    Hold point

    Do not cover, backfill, load, connect, certify or release the next activity until Engineer/truss supplier check where required and the required project evidence are complete or the authorised reviewer confirms what may proceed.

    Stop or escalate when

    • Missing bracing
    • Wrong fixing/brace pattern
    • The current drawing, approval, competent reviewer or required evidence cannot be confirmed.

    Documents and records

    • Roof framing plan
    • Fixing schedule
    • Current RFI/site-instruction/change record
    • Inspection and evidence register
    Cost effect
    Rectification, reinspection, delay, damaged follow-on work, access loss and changed scope can increase the cost of roof framing. Record the cause and obtain written pricing before approving a commercial change.
    Programme effect
    This activity controls the release of dependent work. Update the lookahead programme and notify affected trades if the hold point, information, inspection or evidence is not ready.

    Next action

    Protect roof framing from unsafe access and weather damage.

    Applicability: Apply when this work package is included in the current project scope. Confirm project-specific consent, contract, design, site and authority requirements.

    Use the current consented/issued project documents and competent site review. BuildPath does not approve work.

  3. 03Protect roof framing from unsafe access and weather damageLevel 2 · Frame and roof
    TaskCheckHold pointEvidenceRecordNext action

    Simple explanation

    Protect roof framing from unsafe access and weather damage.

    Technical context

    Coordinate this work against Structural details, NZS 3604/engineer notes, the current consent status, and the actual site condition. Confirm interfaces before releasing dependent work.

    Why it matters: The main recorded risk is: Falls from height. A missed check can create rework, delay, hidden defects, an inspection failure, or a departure from approved project documents.

    Prerequisites

    • Structural details is current, approved for the intended use, and available to the people doing the work.
    • NZS 3604/engineer notes and relevant product information have been checked.
    • Access, responsibility, safety controls, preceding work and the pre-roofing check sequence are confirmed.

    Checks

    • Check the completed work against Structural details and NZS 3604/engineer notes.
    • Check specifically for: Falls from height.
    • Avoid this known mistake: Roofers starting before framing defects are fixed.

    Evidence to save

    • Wide, location-identifying and close-up photographs of the completed roof framing work before it is concealed.
    • Marked-up Structural details or a precise drawing/detail reference.
    • Pre-roofing check result, consultant record, trade QA record or written not-applicable reason.

    Hold point

    Do not cover, backfill, load, connect, certify or release the next activity until Pre-roofing check and the required project evidence are complete or the authorised reviewer confirms what may proceed.

    Stop or escalate when

    • Falls from height
    • Roofers starting before framing defects are fixed
    • The current drawing, approval, competent reviewer or required evidence cannot be confirmed.

    Documents and records

    • Structural details
    • NZS 3604/engineer notes
    • Current RFI/site-instruction/change record
    • Inspection and evidence register
    Cost effect
    Rectification, reinspection, delay, damaged follow-on work, access loss and changed scope can increase the cost of roof framing. Record the cause and obtain written pricing before approving a commercial change.
    Programme effect
    This activity controls the release of dependent work. Update the lookahead programme and notify affected trades if the hold point, information, inspection or evidence is not ready.

    Next action

    Close the roof framing stage, link its evidence, resolve outstanding defects and release only the next applicable stage.

    Applicability: Apply when this work package is included in the current project scope. Confirm project-specific consent, contract, design, site and authority requirements.

    Use the current consented/issued project documents and competent site review. BuildPath does not approve work.

Trade-to-trade control

Interfaces and release gates

Use the actual consented design, specification and authorised reviewers. These controls help expose gaps; they do not approve work.

Foundations, slab and framing set-out

Prerequisites

  • Concrete strength/release and foundation defects are resolved
  • Hold-downs, starter bars, rebates, slab edges and penetrations are located
  • Architectural and structural grids use the same current datum

Interface checks

  • Wall lines, openings and bracing elements land on the designed support
  • Anchor/hold-down type, edge distance, embedment and corrosion protection are correct
  • Wet areas, level thresholds and accessible entries have the designed floor relationships
Hold point: Do not load or enclose framing where support, anchorage, dimensions or concrete acceptance remain unresolved.

Evidence before release

  • Foundation/slab acceptance record
  • Framing set-out and anchor photographs
  • Marked-up discrepancy/RFI record

Next team: Framing and structural steel team

Open the related Workspace control →

Structure, penetrations and building services

Prerequisites

  • Coordinated services routes and fixture/equipment positions are issued
  • Restricted drilling/notching zones and fire/acoustic systems are identified
  • Required sleeves, supports and access panels are agreed

Interface checks

  • No member, brace, connection or fire/acoustic element is altered without authorised detail
  • Falls, ventilation paths, clearances and maintenance access can still be achieved
  • Penetration sealing system matches substrate, service and required rating
Hold point: Do not drill, notch, core, close walls/ceilings or commission a concealed route until clashes and penetrations are authorised and photographed.

Evidence before release

  • Coordinated services drawing or marked-up route
  • Pre-line photographs of every concealed service zone
  • Engineer/designer RFI response and penetration schedule where required

Next team: Insulation, lining and commissioning teams

Open the related Workspace control →

Roof framing, roofing and wall envelope

Prerequisites

  • Roof geometry, falls, drainage points and penetrations are coordinated
  • Underlay/cavity/cladding/roof systems and compatible accessories are approved
  • Temporary weather protection and material storage are effective

Interface checks

  • Roof-to-wall, parapet, apron, saddle and penetration junctions follow current details
  • Drainage capacity, overflow path and discharge points are unobstructed
  • Sequencing does not trap water or leave underlay, framing or insulation exposed
Hold point: Do not conceal roof/wall junctions or remove temporary weather protection until critical laps, flashings, penetrations and drainage paths are inspected and evidenced.

Evidence before release

  • Wide and close-up junction photographs
  • Product/system installation checklist
  • Designer/roofing/cladding review where the consent or contract requires it

Next team: Cladding, window and interior teams

Open the related Workspace control →

What happens in this stage

  • Check truss layout, orientation, bearing points, fixings, bracing, penetrations, and engineer/supplier installation requirements.
  • Confirm roof planes, valleys, hips, gables, overhangs, fascia lines, and roof drainage can be built as detailed.
  • Protect roof framing from unsafe access and weather damage.

Before work starts

  • Confirm the latest issued-for-construction and consented documents for roof framing are on site, including Truss layout.
  • Check Truss design producer statement, approved product data, RFIs, minor variations, and amendment status before work starts.
  • Confirm the subcontractor understands the scope, hold points, access, protection requirements, H&S controls, and quality evidence required.
  • Check the programme sequence so this stage does not start before earlier work, inspections, testing, or concealed-work photos are complete.
  • Confirm materials delivered to site match the specification, are dry/undamaged, and are stored according to manufacturer instructions.

During the work

  • Walk the work face early, mid-shift, and before close-up. Compare actual work with the consented drawings, specification, and manufacturer details.
  • Check set-out, levels, falls, clearances, penetrations, fixings, bracing, waterproofing, or protection points that will be difficult to see later.
  • Ask trades to show their own quality checks rather than only saying the work is complete.
  • Keep weather, site condition, delivery, delay, inspection, RFI, variation, and safety notes in the daily report.
  • Photograph any work before it is covered, backfilled, lined, clad, tiled, painted, or otherwise hidden.

After the work

  • Complete a close-out walk with the subcontractor and mark defects immediately while access is still available.
  • Confirm required inspection bookings, council results, producer statements, LBP Records of Work, warranties, test certificates, or installer declarations are obtained.
  • Update as-built notes where service routes, drainage, fixings, penetrations, or dimensions differ from the design.
  • Confirm the area is protected from weather, other trades, impact damage, contamination, or premature loading.
  • Update the lookahead programme and tell affected trades what is ready, what is blocked, and what must not be covered.

Common problems and step-by-step solutions

Roof framing issue
  1. 1Stop the affected roof framing activity if continuing could hide defective work, create unsafe work, or move away from the consented design.
  2. 2Photograph the condition from wide, medium, and close-up angles. Include a tape, level, datum mark, gridline, or drawing reference where useful.
  3. 3Check the latest consented architectural, structural, civil, services, and specification documents before giving an instruction.
  4. 4Ask the subcontractor to explain the cause, proposed fix, timing impact, and whether the fix changes consented work.
  5. 5Escalate to the builder/project manager, designer, engineer, council inspector, or client when the fix affects structure, weathertightness, drainage, H1, fire/safety, cost, programme, or consent.
  6. 6Record the decision, responsible person, drawing/RFI/variation reference, photos, and follow-up inspection in the daily report.
Purlin/batten layout conflict
  1. 1Stop the affected roof framing activity if continuing could hide defective work, create unsafe work, or move away from the consented design.
  2. 2Photograph the condition from wide, medium, and close-up angles. Include a tape, level, datum mark, gridline, or drawing reference where useful.
  3. 3Check the latest consented architectural, structural, civil, services, and specification documents before giving an instruction.
  4. 4Ask the subcontractor to explain the cause, proposed fix, timing impact, and whether the fix changes consented work.
  5. 5Escalate to the builder/project manager, designer, engineer, council inspector, or client when the fix affects structure, weathertightness, drainage, H1, fire/safety, cost, programme, or consent.
  6. 6Record the decision, responsible person, drawing/RFI/variation reference, photos, and follow-up inspection in the daily report.
Truss modification requested on site
  1. 1Stop the affected roof framing activity if continuing could hide defective work, create unsafe work, or move away from the consented design.
  2. 2Photograph the condition from wide, medium, and close-up angles. Include a tape, level, datum mark, gridline, or drawing reference where useful.
  3. 3Check the latest consented architectural, structural, civil, services, and specification documents before giving an instruction.
  4. 4Ask the subcontractor to explain the cause, proposed fix, timing impact, and whether the fix changes consented work.
  5. 5Escalate to the builder/project manager, designer, engineer, council inspector, or client when the fix affects structure, weathertightness, drainage, H1, fire/safety, cost, programme, or consent.
  6. 6Record the decision, responsible person, drawing/RFI/variation reference, photos, and follow-up inspection in the daily report.

Verification

Source / where to check

Use current official information and the controlled documents for the actual project.

Check structure requirements, B1/AS1, Verification Methods, structural engineer design, bracing, foundations, wind, earthquake, and consented structural drawings.

Use where the project is within NZS 3604 scope; always confirm against the consented structural drawings and engineer details.

Use WorkSafe NZ for construction health and safety duties, risk management, and practical guidance for residential construction work.

Consented drawings and specifications

The issued consent drawings, stamped specifications, engineering drawings, RFIs, minor variations, and amendments control the specific project.

Manufacturer specification

Use the exact current installation manual, warranty requirements, BRANZ/Appraisal information where applicable, and product data sheet for the product on site.

Insufficient data to verify

Insufficient data to verify — confirm against the current consented drawings, specifications, Auckland Council requirements, Auckland Unitary Plan, NZ Building Code, relevant NZ Standard, consultant advice, manufacturer instructions, insurance broker, insurer, lender, lawyer, accountant or project contract.

Project-specific consented documents and professional advice override generic guidance.

Common inspections required

  • Roof framing inspection
  • Engineer/truss supplier check where required
  • Pre-roofing check

Common risks

  • Incorrect truss placement
  • Missing bracing
  • Falls from height
  • Roof penetration conflicts
  • Insufficient tie-down

Common mistakes

  • Cutting trusses without design approval
  • Wrong fixing/brace pattern
  • Roofers starting before framing defects are fixed

Required documentation

  • Latest consented drawings and specifications
  • Relevant RFIs, site instructions, amendments, minor variations, and variation approvals
  • Subcontractor scope, QA checklist, delivery dockets, product data, and installation records
  • Inspection booking/result records and photos before cover-up
  • Daily site report notes covering labour, weather, progress, delays, risks, and decisions

Photos or diagrams needed

  • Wide photo showing where roof framing is happening on the site
  • Close-up photos of critical details, fixings, laps, seals, penetrations, clearances, levels, or falls
  • Photo of product labels, batch numbers, delivery dockets, and installer marks where relevant
  • Marked-up drawing or simple diagram showing any changed location, clash, defect, or agreed remedial detail

Construction manager checklist

  1. 1Scope, drawings, specification, product data, and latest revision confirmed
  2. 2Trade briefed on hold points, tolerances to verify, evidence required, and inspection sequence
  3. 3Access, storage, protection, temporary works, and safety controls in place
  4. 4Work checked against drawings during installation, not only at completion
  5. 5Photos and records captured before work is concealed
  6. 6Defects, RFIs, delays, and variations recorded with owner and due date
  7. 7Inspection/producer statement/warranty/Record of Work requirements tracked for CCC

Questions to ask the subcontractor

  • Which drawing, detail, or manufacturer instruction are you working from?
  • What needs to be checked before this is covered or handed to the next trade?
  • What could stop you today: weather, access, materials, information, inspections, or other trades?
  • Does anything on site differ from the drawings or specification?
  • What evidence will you provide for the quality file and CCC file?

Red flags to stop work

  • Work differs from consented drawings or specification and no approved variation/RFI exists
  • A structural, weathertightness, waterproofing, drainage, fire/safety, or H1 detail is unclear
  • The trade wants to cover work before inspection, testing, or photos are complete
  • Specified materials are missing, substituted, damaged, wet, expired, or installed outside manufacturer instructions
  • A safety control is missing for excavation, heights, plant movement, electrical work, asbestos, silica, or public protection

What to record in the daily report

  • Exact location and quantity of work completed
  • Trade headcount, company names, plant used, deliveries, and material batch/product details
  • Weather, site conditions, delays, instructions received, RFIs raised, and inspections booked/passed/failed
  • Photos taken before cover-up and any defects or non-conformances found
  • Next-day lookahead, blockers, and who is responsible for each action

Use this in my project

Turn roof framing into controlled action

Open the relevant workspace register, create the project-specific record, link the controlling documents and preserve evidence. The guide does not automatically approve or verify the action.

Open workspace