Building consents

Before doing any alterations or renovations, check with your local council to see if you need building consent for what you have in mind.

Under the Building Act 2004, building work that will require consent includes:

• Alterations, additions and many structural repairs to existing buildings, for example, removing or changing structural load-bearing walls. In some cases, you will need consent to replace all the wall linings at once, as they may serve a structural purpose. Any alterations to intertenancy walls, i.e. those separating units in a multi-unit development, will need building consent.
• The demolition of existing buildings and structures.
• The removal or relocation of existing buildings.
• Sitework, for example, earthworks for a new extension.
• The construction of decks one metre or more in height above ground level.
• Building retaining walls that:
  • Are above 1.5 metres in height above ground level, or
  • Will retain driveways or structures - the 1.5 metre height limit does not apply in this case.
• Changing building use, for example, converting your garage to a bedroom.
• Plumbing or drainage work other than routine maintenance – although this can only be done by a registered plumber or drainlayer.
• Installing or replacing an inbuilt, free-standing log and solid fuel burner, heater or open fire place.
• Putting in a swimming or spa pool.
• Installing communications aerials for television repeaters, mobile phones or radio (but not standard home television antennae).
• Fences over two metres high.

Note: this is not a complete list. We recommend you talk to your local council before doing any DIY projects.