Balancing building safety and cost is behind changes to building material legislation

From today, builders will have a wider range of products available ti them, including overseas products.

Construction and Building Minister Chris Penk says materials are about a quarter of the cost of construction, so it could bring tens of thousands of dollars off the cost of building.

He says that doesn't mean they're scrimping on quality.

Penk says all of the products must meet New Zealand standards.