IN THE KNOW —
New online tool to fınd out if building consent is needed A new online tool to help homeowners find out if their next project needs building consent is now available on the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s website.
“We’ve introduced the new online tool, Buildit as a first port of call for homeowners when thinking about their home projects, before starting any work,” says Sarah Sinclair, Manager System Design and Implementation in MBIE’s Building Performance branch.
“Buildit invites users to answer a short series of questions about their home projects. It then provides information on whether their project fits into the building consent exemption requirements or if their project may need a building consent from their council,” says Sarah.
“Buildit will help homeowners find out what can be an easy DIY job and what’s not, so they can understand that there may be building consent requirements specific to the project they have in mind.”
“Even though we have lifted building consent requirements for many types of low-risk building work, it’s still important that all home projects meet the requirements of the Building Code,” Sarah says, “The Building Code covers aspects such as structural stability, fire safety, access, moisture control, durability, services and facilities, and energy efficiency. It ensures that all building work is safe and fit for purpose”.
In August 2020, changes were made to building consent exemptions that made it simpler and more cost efficient for homeowners to complete a number of common, low-risk building projects.
“The Buildit online tool will help point homeowners in the right direction for their home project requirements. If people are still unsure, the best thing they can do is pick up the phone and speak to a licensed building practitioner,” Sarah says.
“The new exemptions allowed more building projects to be completed by homeowners and licensed building practitioners without a council approved building consent”.
For more information visit www.buildit.govt.nz
MBIE is the over-arching regulator of New Zealand’s building system. Our Building System Performance (BSP) branch provides policy and technical advice on New Zealand’s building system, rules and standards, and implements building legislation and regulations to meet New Zealand’s current and future needs.
24
