Building Consents NZ: A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
- Jan 1, 2021
- 6 min read
Updated: 16 hours ago
Wellington Builders | Renovations | Construction | Design & Architecture Services | Environmentally Conscious | Wellington Roofing & Waterproofing | Wellington Painters
Planning a renovation, extension, or new build is exciting, but it also comes with plenty of questions. One of the biggest is whether you'll need a building consent.
While some building work in New Zealand can now be completed without consent, many projects still require council approval before construction can begin. Understanding the rules early can help you avoid delays, unexpected costs and compliance issues later on.
If you're researching building consents NZ, this guide explains what you need to know before starting a renovation, extension or new build.
Building Consents NZ: What Are They?
A building consent is formal approval from your local council confirming that your proposed building work complies with the New Zealand Building Code. It helps ensure that buildings are safe, healthy, durable and fit for purpose.
It's important to remember that a building consent is not the same as the Building Code.
The Building Code sets the performance standards that building work must meet, while a building consent is the council's approval to carry out work that requires consent.
Not every project requires a building consent, but all building work, whether consented or exempt, must still comply with the Building Code.
Do I Need a Building Consent?
Whether you need a building consent depends on the type and scope of work you're planning.
Many larger projects require consent, including:
Building a new home
Adding an extension
Altering structural walls
Installing or relocating plumbing and drainage
Building certain retaining walls
Constructing some decks
Major alterations to an existing home
Some smaller projects are exempt from requiring a building consent, but exemptions can be surprisingly specific. Rather than making assumptions, it's always worth checking with your builder or local council before work begins.
Getting this right from the outset can save significant time, money and stress later.
Not Sure If Your Project Needs a Building Consent?
Every project is different. If you're unsure whether your renovation or extension requires a building consent, it's worth checking before work begins.
The Orkney Group team can help you understand the requirements, explain the process, and point you in the right direction.
✓ Friendly, practical advice
✓ Wellington renovation specialists
✓ No obligation to get started
Building Work That May Not Require Consent
Over the years, the list of exempt building work has expanded, making some smaller projects simpler for homeowners.
Depending on your circumstances, building consent may not be required for certain:
Internal alterations that don't affect structural elements
Small detached buildings
Some decks
Certain retaining walls
Minor repairs and maintenance
One of the biggest recent changes is the introduction of the new 70 m² granny flat exemption, which came into effect in 2026.
Under certain conditions, some standalone dwellings of up to 70 m² can now be built without a building consent. However, strict eligibility criteria apply, including requirements around design, construction and professional oversight.
If you're considering adding a minor dwelling to your property, we recommend reading our Minor Dwelling Checklist which explains the exemption in more detail and outlines what homeowners need to know.
Even when consent isn't required, the work must still comply with the Building Code.
The Building Consent Process Step by Step
Every project is different, but most building consents follow the same general journey, from the initial planning stage through to receiving your Code Compliance Certificate.
The infographic below provides a simple overview of the process:
Tip: While councils have a statutory 20 working days to assess a building consent application, this timeframe pauses if further information is requested. Planning ahead can help avoid unnecessary delays.
In most cases, the process includes:
Planning your project with your builder, designer or architect.
Preparing detailed plans and supporting documentation.
Submitting your building consent application to your local council.
Council assessment, including any requests for further information if required.
Building consent is issued, allowing construction to begin.
Council inspections at key stages throughout the build.
Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) issued once the work has passed all required inspections.
While the process can seem daunting at first, working with an experienced builder helps ensure each stage is completed in the correct order, reducing the likelihood of unnecessary delays.
How Long Does a Building Consent Take?
Councils generally have 20 working days to assess a building consent application.
However, this timeframe pauses if further information is requested, so the overall process can take longer depending on the complexity of the project and how quickly additional information is provided.
Allowing enough time for design, documentation and council approval is one of the best ways to keep your renovation or build on schedule.
What Happens During Construction?
Once your building consent has been issued and construction begins, the council will carry out inspections at key milestones to ensure the work complies with the approved plans and the Building Code.
Depending on your project, inspections may include:
Foundations
Drainage
Framing
Plumbing
Insulation
Waterproofing
Final inspection
Your builder will usually arrange these inspections as the project progresses, helping keep everything on track.
What Is a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)?
The Code Compliance Certificate is the final step in the building consent process.
It confirms that the council is satisfied that the completed work complies with the approved building consent.
A CCC is important because you may need it when:
Selling your home
Refinancing your mortgage
Making insurance claims
Undertaking future renovations
Keeping all your consent documentation and your CCC in a safe place can save considerable hassle later.
Common Building Consent Mistakes to Avoid
While every project is different, there are a few common mistakes homeowners can avoid.
Starting work too early
Construction should never begin until the required building consent has been issued.
Assuming consent isn't required
Just because a neighbour completed a similar project without consent doesn't necessarily mean your project qualifies for the same exemption.
Making changes during construction
Significant changes to the approved plans may require amendments to the consent.
Leaving planning until the last minute
Building consent is only one part of the overall planning process. Allowing enough time before construction begins helps avoid unnecessary delays.
How Orkney Group Can Help
Navigating the building consent process can feel overwhelming, particularly if it's your first renovation or building project.
At Orkney Group, we work closely with homeowners, designers, architects and councils throughout the planning and construction process. While every project is different, our goal is to help make the journey as straightforward as possible by identifying potential issues early, coordinating with the right professionals, and keeping clients informed at every stage.
Whether you're planning an extension, a major renovation or a new home, having an experienced team alongside you can make the process far less stressful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all renovations require a building consent?
No. Some smaller renovations are exempt, while larger or structural alterations usually require council approval. It's always worth checking before work begins.
What's the difference between a building consent and a resource consent?
A building consent relates to how the building work complies with the Building Code. A resource consent relates to how the project complies with planning rules under your local district plan. Some projects require one, some require both, and others may require neither.
How much does a building consent cost?
Costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the project, as well as the council processing the application. Your designer or builder can usually provide guidance based on similar projects.
Can I live in my home during a consented renovation?
Sometimes. It depends on the scope of the work, whether essential services remain available, and whether the home is safe to occupy during construction.
What happens if I build without the required consent?
Carrying out work without a required building consent can result in delays, enforcement action, difficulties selling your property, insurance complications and costly remedial work. It's always better to confirm the requirements before construction begins.
Planning a Renovation? Start With Good Advice
A successful renovation starts long before construction begins.
If you're still in the planning stages, you may also find these guides helpful:
Or, if you'd like to discuss your project with an experienced Wellington builder, contact the Orkney Group team. We'd be happy to help you understand what's involved and point you in the right direction.
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