Planning building work

If you are unsure about what you need to do before you start a building project, get in touch. We're here to help.

Before you start

There are several things to consider before you even hit the first nail.

• Do you need resource consent? Find more information about our Planning Services
• Are there any covenants/conditions on the certificate of title that restrict work? E.g. easements, building line restrictions, sub-division conditions and covenants? 
• Is the project within any zones or areas that might be affected by wind, sea spray, or affected by any natural hazards? 
• Is your build located in a medium/high liquefaction area? Check out our online maps
• It’s also a good idea to check with your insurance provider before starting any building work

Exemptions

Effective 1 September 2020, additional building consent exemptions have been added to the Building Act for a number of low-risk building projects. 

It is the building owner's responsibility to check whether a building consent is required. A full list of exemptions and guidance material is available on the MBIE website.

If the work that you are planning to do falls outside of the specified requirements for an exemption, you will need to get a building consent. If you're not sure whether or not your building work is exempt, it's important to get advice from a professional. There may be requirements for some of the exempt work to be completed by a suitably qualified person (i.e., licensed plumber, drain-layer, licensed building practitioner or engineer etc.). 

Remember, all building work must be done in accordance with the New Zealand Building Code and other legislative requirements, including local planning regulations, even if it doesn’t require a consent.