The Home Owners and Buyers Association is concerned there'll be shortcuts taken in the latest boom in apartment construction to address Auckland's housing shortage.

Widespread breaches of fire safety regulations are being discovered as apartments are pulled apart during weather tightness repairs - adding months and millions of dollars to fixes for owners.

It arises from a rash of building shortcuts and a compliance system not fit for purpose.

And the president of the Association John Gray says it's a problem that could happen all over again as the government considers allowing builders to certify their own work in an effort to cut red tape.

"We're very concerned that it might be quite widespread throughout the apartment and terraced housing complexes in Auckland and potentially throughout New Zealand."