Renovating your home is exciting — but dealing with council approvals can take time and extra planning. The good news is, many common home upgrades in New Zealand don’t require building consent at all.
Here’s your go-to list of what you can do without the added paperwork.
Renovations That Don’t Require Building Consent
Non-Structural Interior Changes
If you’re updating the look and feel of your home without touching the structure, you’re in the clear. Think:
Painting
Wallpapering
Installing new flooring
Replacing cabinetry and fixtures
Like-for-Like Bathroom Upgrades or Kitchen Upgrades
As long as you’re not changing drainage layouts or knocking down structural walls, you can swap out:
Kitchen cabinets
Countertops
Appliances
Bathroom vanities and fittings
Non-structural walls
Pergolas
Want to create an outdoor living space? Pergolas that aren’t fully enclosed don’t require consent, making them an easy upgrade.
Decks and Platforms Under 1.5m High
Decking below 1.5 metres is fine without consent — just ensure it’s well-designed and safe to use.
Fences Under 2.5m
Fences at or under this height don’t need council sign-off, giving you more privacy without the paperwork.
Specific Scenarios to Know About
Replacing Windows or Doors
Go ahead and upgrade, as long as the size of the opening stays the same.
Minor Plumbing Work
Need to replace a tap or connect a new dishwasher? These minor tasks are generally consent-free.
Decorating Your Space
All forms of interior decoration, like installing cabinetry, hanging shelves, or painting, can be done without needing approval.
Need Help Navigating What’s Allowed?
While these projects are usually safe to do without building consent, every home is different — and local council rules can vary slightly.
That’s where we come in.
At TUIT Design & Build, we take the guesswork out of renovations. Whether your project needs council approval or not, we’ll guide you through the process, ensure everything is up to standard, and deliver high-quality craftsmanship every step of the way.
Ready to renovate without the red tape?
Get in touch today and let’s plan your next move together.
