Guidance - building code

Consent or Not?

Navigating New Building Act Exemptions Without Getting Burned

15th Apr, 2026
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Faster, cheaper builds are now possible—but only if you understand the hidden obligations, risks, and long-term trade-offs behind Schedule 1 and 1A exemptions.
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compliance granny flats building code building consent building act schedule 1 exemptions schedule 1a solar panels nz building law mbie property development residential construction risk management homeowners building regulations pim code compliance certificate property investment construction quality

Opening the Door: New Compliance Pathways for Overseas Building Products

How the latest Building Act amendments will make it easier for international products to be accepted in Aotearoa New Zealand’s construction system

24th Oct, 2025
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The Building (Overseas Building Products, Standards, and Certification Schemes) Amendment Act introduces new compliance pathways that simplify how overseas building products can be approved for use in New Zealand. The reforms aim to reduce barriers to high-quality products, increase market competition, and give designers and consent authorities greater confidence in specifying and approving innovative materials.
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building code mbie compliance pathways building product specifications building act construction standards certification international standards building consent authorities codemark market competition new zealand building system building regulation

Minor Variation Guidance

Understanding When a Change to an Approved Building Consent Qualifies as a Minor Variation

19th Mar, 2024
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This document provides guidance on when modifications or changes to an approved building consent can be considered a minor variation under Section 45A of the Building Act. It defines what constitutes a minor variation, provides examples, and outlines criteria for assessing whether a proposed change qualifies as a minor variation or requires a formal amendment to the building consent. The guidance aims to help owners, agents, and building consent authorities determine the appropriate process for making changes to approved building plans and specifications while ensuring compliance with the Building Code.
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building act building consent authority compliance construction changes minor variation modifications plans variations additions amendment building consent product substitution building code