Do You Need a Building Consent for Your Renovation? A Simple Guide for NZ Homeowners
If you're planning a renovation, one of the first questions that usually comes up is:
“Do I need a building consent for this?”
In New Zealand, some work can be done without consent, while other projects legally require approval from your local council. Knowing the difference helps you avoid delays, unexpected costs, or issues when selling your home later.
Here’s a simple overview to help you understand when a building consent is needed – and when it’s not.
When a Building Consent Is Usually Required
In general, you’ll need a consent for renovation work that could affect the safety or structure of your home. This includes:
Structural Changes: If you’re removing walls, adding beams, changing the roof, extending the house, or doing anything that affects how the home is supported, a consent is usually required.
Plumbing or Drainage Work: Adding or relocating bathrooms, toilets, kitchens, or drainage typically needs approval because it affects health and safety.
Work That Affects Weatherproofing: Anything that could impact how water enters or moves around the home often requires consent—for example, re-cladding, new exterior joinery in a different location, or roof changes.
Major Alterations or Additions: Adding a new room, changing room sizes, converting a garage, or adding a level to your home will almost always require consent.
When You Might Not Need a Consent
Some low-risk or cosmetic renovations don’t require council approval, as long as the work still meets the Building Code. These usually include:
Cosmetic Updates: Painting, new flooring, updating cabinetry, replacing benchtops, or refreshing fixtures.
Like-for-Like Replacements: Swapping out a vanity, kitchen sink, or toilet in the same location generally doesn’t require consent.
Small Outdoor Projects: Decks under 1 metre high, pergolas without roofing, small sheds, and other basic structures may be exempt.
Minor Building Work Under Schedule 1: Some small alterations can be done without consent, but must still follow all building rules. We can help you confirm what is exempt.
Why Getting It Right Matters
Skipping a required consent can cause problems later, especially if you plan to sell. Insurance claims may also be affected if work wasn't approved when it should have been. Getting clarity early ensures your renovation is safe, legal, and compliant.
Always Check Before You Start
While this guide covers the basics, every home and renovation is different. Councils may also interpret rules slightly differently depending on the work involved.
The safest approach is to talk to:
The team here at Zephyr Construction
Your local council
A designer or architect (for larger projects)
They can confirm what does and doesn’t need consent, saving you time and stress.
Planning a Renovation?
If you’re unsure where to start, we can walk you through the process, help you understand consent requirements, and make sure your renovation is done properly from day one.
We’d love to chat about your next renovation! Get in touch.