🏠

Guide to Building Consent in New Zealand

Feb 18, 2025

Building Consent Guide

Overview

  • Definition: Building consent is a process to ensure compliance with the New Zealand Building Code.
  • Focus: Primarily on residential homes.
  • Exemptions: Check if your project is listed in Schedule 1 of the Building Act as an exemption.

Schedule 1 Exemptions

  • Guidebook: Details low-risk projects that do not need building consent.
  • Compliance: All work must still comply with the building code.
  • Examples of Exemptions:
    • Retaining wall under 1.5m with no additional load.
    • Low-to-ground deck.
    • Pergola without a roof.
    • Fence under 2.5m.
    • Shed smaller than 10m², situated more than its height from a boundary.
  • Plumbing/Drainage Work: Must be performed by licensed or certified professionals.

Determining Building Consent Requirements

  • Homeowner's Responsibility: Ensure work complies with building code and determine if consent is needed.
  • Additional Rules: Be aware of other regulations that might apply.
  • Restricted Building Work:
    • Must be handled by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP).
    • Includes primary structure and water tightness elements.
    • Owner-Builder Exemption: Homeowners can apply but will be liable for the work.
  • Examples of Restricted Work:
    • Moving load-bearing walls.
    • Adding a room.
    • Complete repiling.
    • Building a new house.

Non-Restricted Building Work

  • Responsibility: If performed by the homeowner, compliance with the building code is necessary.

Building Consent Application Process

  1. Compile Documents:
    • Form 2 application.
    • Plans and specifications.
    • Completed checklist.
    • Proof of ownership.
    • Building consent fee calculator.
    • Agent appointment letter (if applicable).
  2. Submission: Use the Share File portal on the website.
  3. Payment: Required fees must be paid for processing.
  4. Processing Time: Up to 20 working days.
  5. Post-Approval:
    • Understand consent requirements.
    • Follow inspection schedule.

Important Considerations

  • Inspections: Ensure access and availability of plans on site.
  • Unconsented Work: Can lead to fines or issues with selling and insuring property.
  • Code Compliance Certificate: Final step post-inspections confirming adherence to consent.

Additional Resources

  • Check the website for more information on building consents.

Note: This guide is an outline, and further detailed information should be sought from official resources.

Full transcript