Trying to figure out the building consent process in New Zealand can feel a bit like trying to put together a puzzle without all the pieces. But don't worry, we're here to help! In this blog post, we'll give you a short overview of the building consent process in New Zealand, from start to finish.
Getting Started
The first step in the building consent process is to determine if your project requires a building consent. If you're not sure, you can always check with your local council or with the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment (MBIE). Any professional in the construction industry will also be able to talk you through this process, including the way the operate with local councils.
If you do need a building consent, the next step is to engage a professional. There is a vast amount of information required to get from an idea of what you're after, to an approved building consent. Your design professional will be able to take care of all the documentation and supplementary information required to submit an application to your local council on your behalf. Once your application has been received, a building control officer will be assigned to your case. This officer will work with your design professional to ensure that your plans meet all the necessary requirements.
The Assessment Process
Once your plans have been submitted, they will be sent off for assessment. Depending on the complexity of your project, this assessment can take up to six weeks, and often on complex projects, longer. Officially, local council have 20 working days to assess your building consent application, however, if the application is deemed to be incomplete, or require more information for them to accurately assess your project, they will pause your application, and send questions. While your project is paused, it is up to your designer and any other consultants to provide information back to your local council to keep things moving forward.
After the assessment is complete, you will be notified of the results. If your plans are approved, you will be given a building consent document that outlines all the conditions that must be met during construction.
Construction Phase
Once you've received your building consent document, you can begin construction! During this phase, it is important to make sure that all work is carried out in accordance with the conditions of your building consent. You should also keep in mind that any changes to your original plans will need to be approved by your local council before construction can begin. Failure to do so could result in delays or even legal action. Upon completion of construction, you will need to notify your local council so that they can conduct a final inspection. Once the inspection is complete and everything is approved, you will officially have your new home! Congratulations!
We hope this blog post has helped shed some light on the often confusing world of building consents. Remember, if you're ever unsure about anything, just reach out to your local council or a design professional for clarification. They would be more than happy to help!
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I founded Modal Architecture in 2021. We are a local architectural design firm specialising in high-performance, sustainable, and lifestyle homes around New Zealand. If you want to find out more - get in touch discuss this article or your upcoming project.