Whatever the project you will probably require a Building Consent unless the project is listed as "Exempt Work".
Listed below are common projects which may not require a Building Consents if certain criteria are met.
Please read carefully and if in doubt - always contact us to ensure your project meets the "exemptions".
Exempt Work
Repairs and Maintenance
A Building Consent is not required if you are repairing a fixture or structure and using exactly the same materials as the original, and these repairs do not alter the fixture or structure in any way.
Although a Building Consent is not required in the case of plumbing and drainage repairs, these works are still required to be carried out by a registered tradesperson.
Retaining Walls
A Building Consent is not required if a wall:
- does not support ground more than 1.5 metres in height at any one point
- is not going to support an area for a building or structure
- is not used for a vehicle to be driven over or parked on
- does not interfere with the natural flow of excess water on the property
Garden Sheds
A Building Consent is not required, provided the shed is less than 10 sq.m. in floor area, and is sited within the required boundary requirements, is a single storey and non-habitable.
Removal of Internal
Non-structured Walls
A Building Consent is not required, if you intend removing non-structural walls not requiring support by way of new or additional beams, or perhaps blocking off existing openings within a dwelling. However, it is advisable to discuss this with a Building Advisory Officer prior to commencement of work.
Decks
A Building Consent is not required, provided the deck is not roofed and is under 1 metre in height from ground level to the top of the deck at any point.
However, if you intend to construct a pergola or veranda on top of the deck at a later date it is advisable to make application for Building Consent for all construction prior to construction of the deck. This will check deck and foundations are designed to support all structures.
Garden Ponds
A Building Consent is not required, for a garden pond or water feature, provided the depth of the pond or feature containing water is no deeper than 400mm. Anything deeper than this will require to be fenced in compliance with the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987 and registered with Council.
Even though a Building Consent is not required it is advisable to draw up plans and specifications of your intended project and discuss these with Council's Building Advisory Officers.
We are happy to place a copy of these plans on your property file for future reference. Should you wish to sell your property at a later date, we will have an up to date record of all building work available for the purchaser.