Obtaining a Building Consent

Avoid the stress involved in building a home or altering your existing home by working with your Council. A Building Consent (previously known as a building permit) is generally needed to do any structural alterations or new work. This includes plumbing and drainage.

Consult with Council staff early about your project to avoid delays and unnecessary costs later on. Council staff have the experience, willingness and ability to help you get a Building Consent for your project and to ensure that the building will comply with the standards set by the New Zealand Building Code.

It is advisable to get a professional to help with your plans if you are not skilled in this area (refer to therestricted building work and licensed building practitioners information page) . Should your plans comply with the Building Code you will be issued with a Building Consent without delay.

Council staff will inspect the job as it progresses and if the plans are adhered to, a Code of Compliance Certificate will be issued on completion of the work. This certifies that all the requirements have been complied with and that you can start using the building. Select your builder and advisor carefully.

Work Not Requiring a Building Consent

In December 2010 there were some changes made around the work allowed to be done without a building consent. By law, most work needs to be completed by a registered professional and all work needs to meet the standards of the:

• Building Code
• Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006
• Electricity Act 1992
• Resource Management Act 1991

The New Zealand Homeowner's Building Guide: Your guide to NZ building codes, building products, building advice and so much more! view the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment guide to Building Consent Exemptions.