Do I need a building consent?
Tell us what you're planning. We'll let you know if it needs a consent, takes about two minutes, no obligation.
What kind of project are you thinking about?
Bathroom renovation
Yes, you'll likely need consent.
If you're adding a plumbing fixture (new shower, basin, toilet), changing the floor for a level-entry shower, or doing anything that touches the structure: that's a building consent.
The good news: it's exactly what we do. Fixed price, plain English, we handle council.
New bathroom or ensuite
Yes, this needs consent.
Adding a new bathroom or ensuite means new plumbing fixtures, drainage, and ventilation, all of which trigger a building consent under the Building Act.
If it's inside your existing footprint, we're the right fit. If it's an extension that pushes the building out, that's a different scope: see what we don't do.
Removing an internal wall
Yes, if it's structural.
If the wall is load-bearing or bracing, removing it changes the structural performance of your home: that's a building consent every time.
Not sure if it's load-bearing? We can help you find out as part of the application. We work with structural engineers regularly.
Kitchen or laundry alteration
It depends on what you're changing.
Moving the sink, adding a dishwasher, changing where the washing-machine plumbing goes: these need consent. Replacing cabinetry in the same layout typically doesn't.
If you're not sure, the simplest answer is to start an application. We'll tell you within two working days whether consent is needed at all, and if it isn't, there's no charge.
Wood fire or fireplace
Yes, new solid-fuel fires need consent.
New wood burners and most replacement installations need a building consent for hearth clearances, flue penetration, and structural support.
Existing fire being swapped for a like-for-like replacement is sometimes exempt: we'll confirm in the application.
Something else
Let's find out together.
Not every project is on this list. If yours involves anything within your existing building footprint (plumbing, structure, fixtures), there's a good chance we're the right fit.
If your project is outside the footprint (new extension, new dwelling, recladding), that's beyond our scope. We'll point you to the right people.