The New Zealand Government is planning big changes to the way homes and renovations are built. A new self-certification scheme could make the process of getting building approvals faster, cheaper, and less complicated. Instead of relying on council inspections for every step, qualified builders would be able to sign off on their own work for low-risk residential projects.
If you’re considering building or renovating, here’s what this could mean for your project—and how to make the most of these changes.
What Is Self-Certification?
Currently, most building projects require regular council inspections to ensure they meet the Building Code. These inspections can cause delays and add to the overall cost of construction. The new proposal would allow licensed builders, plumbers, and other professionals to self-certify their work if they meet certain criteria, including:
Being Licensed Practitioners: Only trusted professionals with proven experience can take part.
Carrying Insurance: They’ll need indemnity insurance to cover any issues.
Maintaining High Standards: Participants must have a track record of compliance with the Building Code.
By reducing the need for council involvement in low-risk projects, the government hopes to make building more efficient and affordable.
How Could This Benefit You?
For homeowners, this proposal offers several potential advantages:
Faster Progress If your builder can self-certify, there’s no waiting for council inspections at every stage. This could mean your project is completed more quickly, so you can enjoy your new space sooner.
Lower Costs With fewer inspections required, you could save money on compliance fees, reducing the overall cost of your project. This is especially helpful for smaller jobs like adding a granny flat or renovating a bathroom.
Simpler Process Builders taking responsibility for their work means fewer hoops for you to jump through. This makes the process less stressful and easier to navigate.
What Should You Be Aware Of?
While self-certification has its benefits, there are some things to keep in mind:
Choosing the Right Builder Not all builders will be eligible for self-certification. It’s important to work with a licensed professional who has experience and a solid reputation. They’ll still need to follow the Building Code, but without council inspections, the responsibility for quality lies with them.
Accountability Matters Self-certifying builders will carry insurance to cover any issues, but ensuring they have the right coverage and a history of successful projects is crucial for your peace of mind.
Maintaining Standards The Building Code doesn’t change under this proposal, so high-quality, safe construction remains a priority. Ask your builder how they plan to ensure compliance without council inspections.
How We Can Help
As architectural designers, we understand how these changes could affect your project—and we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s how we support you:
Expert Guidance: We can help you choose the right builder, ensuring your project is in capable hands.
Clear, Compliant Plans: We design with the Building Code in mind, so your project meets all the necessary standards from the start.
Project Oversight: We work closely with builders and self-certifying professionals to keep everything on track and up to the highest quality.
A Simpler Path to Your Dream Space
The self-certification scheme could be a game-changer for homeowners looking to build or renovate. By reducing red tape, it offers the potential for faster, more affordable projects—but success depends on working with the right team.
If you’re ready to explore how these changes could work for your project, we’d love to help. Let’s create a space that’s not only beautiful but also built to last. Get in touch with us today to get started!