5 Surprising Times You Don’t Require a Building Consent

Building Consents

In Auckland, the building consent process is essential for ensuring that new structures meet safety standards and comply with the city’s regulations. However, there are certain situations where building consent may not be required, which can save time and money. While it’s always recommended to double-check with a professional or consult your local council for specific projects, here are five surprising times when you don’t need a building consent.

Minor Interior Alterations
You can make minor interior alterations to your home without the need for building consent, provided that the changes don’t affect the structural integrity of the building or involve plumbing and drainage systems. For example, if you’re removing non-load-bearing walls or updating internal finishes, such as replacing wall linings or flooring, you may not need a consent. Just ensure that any changes do not impact fire safety systems or bracing walls, and always consult a professional if unsure.

Building a Deck (Under 1.5m High)
Decks are a popular feature in many New Zealand homes, and surprisingly, you don’t need building consent if your deck is less than 1.0 metres high above the ground. As long as the deck is safely designed and doesn’t pose a fall risk and will not be built over any public storm water or waste water lines, it can be constructed without the need for council approval. However, if the deck is higher than 1.0 metres or requires a handrail for safety, you will need to apply for consent.

Installing a Small Garden Shed
You can erect a small garden shed or other detached buildings without building consent as long as they meet specific criteria. These include:

• The shed must be no more than 10 square metres in floor area.
• It cannot be more than one storey or contain sanitary facilities (e.g., toilets or sinks).
• It must be located at least its own height away from boundaries to comply with height-to-boundary rules.

This exemption makes it easy for homeowners to add storage or utility spaces to their property without the hassle of paperwork, but always check with council if you’re unsure about positioning or size.

Installing Insulation in External Walls
In many cases, installing insulation in external walls can be done without requiring building consent, as long as the work does not affect the structural or weathertightness aspects of the home. This is an especially useful exemption for older Auckland villas and bungalows, where improving energy efficiency is a common goal. However, if you are altering load-bearing elements or the building’s exterior envelope, a consent will be necessary.

Carports and Awnings
Surprisingly, certain small-scale outdoor structures like carports and awnings can be built without needing consent. The key conditions for this exemption are:

• The carport must have a floor area of 20 square metres or less.
• The awning must not exceed 20 square metres.

These structures can enhance your home’s outdoor functionality without the delays of obtaining consent, provided they meet the size restrictions and are installed safely.

Final Thoughts
While there are many building projects in Auckland that require a council-approved consent, these five surprising exemptions can make smaller improvements to your home easier to achieve. However, it’s crucial to remember that even if a consent is not required, all work must still comply with the New Zealand Building Code, ensuring that the end result is safe and durable. When in doubt, always seek professional advice to ensure your project is compliant and legal.

If you’re planning a renovation or building project and want to ensure compliance, get in touch with Nala Studio Architects or a licensed professional to guide you through the process.