Quick answer
What homeowners need to know
Consent-exempt work is limited by the Building Act criteria and must still comply with the Building Code and other applicable requirements.
Keep the official guidance and project records showing why the exemption applied.
Key takeaways
- Read the exemption criteria against your exact project.
- Keep a record of why you relied on an exemption.
- Remember that other rules still apply to exempt work.
- Exempt building work must still comply with the Building Code and other applicable rules.
Consent & compliance
Using building consent-exempt work rules safely
Read the exemption criteria against your exact project. Exemptions in Schedule 1 of the Building Act come with conditions, such as who does the work, what it involves and where it sits. A project that matches the headline but fails one condition is not exempt. Compare each condition line by line, and get advice where the wording is unclear rather than guessing.
Keep a record of why you relied on an exemption. Save the relevant official guidance, photos before and after, product information and the names of the people who did the work. Some exemptions require a qualified designer or practitioner, so keep their details and any written confirmation. These records help with insurance, future buyers and any later questions from council.
Remember that other rules still apply to exempt work. Planning rules in the Auckland Unitary Plan, electrical and plumbing requirements, and legal agreements such as easements may still restrict what you can do. Neighbours' rights and drainage connections also matter. Exempt from building consent only means one approval step is not needed, not that the work is free of other obligations.
Scope before solutions
Decisions to make before committing
Settle these points before an idea becomes an order, contract or construction instruction.
Keep the official guidance and project records showing why the exemption applied.
whether structure, use or specified systems change
plumbing, drainage, electrical and weathertightness scope
property overlays, hazards and existing unconsented work
Practical sequence
A step-by-step planning process
- 01
Define the exact outcome you need and how success will be checked.
- 02
Write a precise description of the proposed work and collect available property records.
- 03
Check current central-government and Auckland Council guidance for that project type.
- 04
Ask qualified practitioners to identify design, consent, safety and certification requirements.
- 05
Keep approved documents, variations, inspection records and completion certificates together.
Cost and time
How to build a more reliable budget and programme
A fixed price or completion date needs a measured scope and a site visit. This content is general information only. Confirm requirements with Auckland Council and appropriately qualified professionals before work starts.
Use the calculator, then request a site-specific assessment.
Risk control
Common mistakes to avoid
- Exempt does not mean unregulated, risk-free or suitable for unqualified work.
- assuming consent-exempt means code-exempt
- relying on general online advice instead of checking the actual scope
Accuracy and compliance
Use current official information
Primary sources used for this guide
- Check if you need consentsBuilding Performance (MBIE)
- Building and renovation projectsAuckland Council
- Asbestos in the homeWorkSafe New Zealand
- Documentation from your electricianElectrical Workers Registration Board
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Does exempt building work still need to meet the Building Code?
Yes. All building work must comply with the Building Code whether or not it needs a building consent. An exemption only removes the requirement to apply for consent. The work must still be safe, durable and weathertight, and you remain responsible if it falls short, so use competent people and good materials.
Where can I find the official list of consent-exempt building work?
Schedule 1 of the Building Act lists exempt work, and the Building Performance website publishes guidance explaining each exemption with examples. Auckland Council also provides information for local projects. Always check the current versions, because exemptions and guidance can be updated over time.
Can the council tell me in writing that my work is exempt?
Councils can grant a discretionary exemption in some cases, which you apply for. For work that clearly fits Schedule 1, you usually rely on the criteria yourself. If you are unsure, ask Auckland Council about your options before starting, and keep any written advice with your property records.