What building work can I do without a consent in NZ?
Short answer
Schedule 1 of the Building Act lists work that's exempt from building consent — including minor repairs and maintenance, decks under 1.5m, certain small detached buildings, and (under recent changes) standalone single-storey dwellings up to 70m² with conditions. Exempt work must still meet the Building Code, and restricted building work still needs a Licensed Building Practitioner.
Source: Building Performance (building.govt.nz) — Schedule 1. Updated May 2026.
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Check a builderKey facts
- Minor repairs and like-for-like maintenance are generally exempt
- Decks under 1.5m above ground are usually exempt
- Small detached buildings and solar installs got easier in 2025
- Standalone single-storey dwellings up to 70m² can be exempt (with conditions and a PIM)
- Exempt work must still comply with the Building Code
Common Schedule 1 exemptions
Work that typically doesn't need a building consent includes:
- General repairs, maintenance and like-for-like replacement
- Decks, platforms and bridges under 1.5m above ground
- Many small detached structures such as sheds (within size limits)
- Cosmetic interior work that doesn't touch structure, plumbing or fire safety
Recent changes (2025–2026)
Schedule 1 was expanded to make it easier to install solar panels and build small detached buildings, and a Schedule 1A exemption now allows standalone single-storey dwellings up to 70m² without a full consent — subject to conditions and obtaining a Project Information Memorandum (PIM). Rules are still evolving, so check the current position with your council.
Exempt still means Code-compliant
Being consent-exempt doesn't mean the rules don't apply. The work must meet the Building Code, and any restricted building work (structural or weathertightness) must still be done or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner.
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Related questions
Sources: Building Performance (building.govt.nz) — Schedule 1; LBP — new building consent exemptions. General information for NZ homeowners, not legal advice. Building rules change and vary by council, so confirm critical details on the official source before acting. Last updated 2026-05.