Granny flat resources for builders

This video explains what to consider when building a granny flat under the exemption.

It covers:

• how compliance is managed
• the role of licensed building professionals
• quality assurance during the build
• documentation requirements.

The granny flats exemption removes council inspections, approvals, and the requirement for a final code compliance certificate. It does not reduce compliance obligations. 

How compliance is shown

Under this pathway, compliance is shown through:

• licensed building professional involvement
• construction quality
• accurate documentation. 

The exemption is intended to make things easier while still maintaining important safeguards. 

Those include:

• full compliance with the Building Code
• use of licensed building professionals where required
• management of natural hazard risks
• formal notification to councils before and after building work. 

Before building work starts

Before any work starts, confirm that the homeowner has applied for and received a project information memorandum (PIM). 

Don't rely on assurances that it's on the way.

Building to the design

Review the design plans carefully and build strictly to them. 

Keep the work within the exemption conditions throughout the build. Make sure all work stays within the scope of each licence or authorisation. 

Licensed building professionals also need to be aware that planning and resource consent applies. These requirements remain separate from the exemption. 

A planning issue may still stop the job even if the exemption applies.

Quality assurance during construction

Councils do not inspect exempt building work. This makes quality assurance a critical safeguard. 

Checks at key stages before work is covered over are a good idea. These checks:

• help manage risk
• support the accuracy of records of work and trade certificates.

If changes to the plans or site mean the granny flat no longer meets the exemption conditions, you must stop work until you have the correct statutory approval.

Managing changes

If any changes require updates to the design plans, consult the designer. 

You should not continue when you know the exemption conditions are no longer being met.

Documentation

Records of work, electrical certificates, plumbing and drainlaying records and gas safety certificates are not just admin. 

They are a core part of the compliance record and must be provided promptly to the homeowner, with some also going to council. 

Key points for licensed building professionals

For licensed building professionals, the key is to:

• check the job is set up properly
• build carefully
• stop work when the exemptions conditions are no longer met
• document the work properly. 

More information

Download this quick guide to help manage exempt granny flat projects from start to finish.

Builders' quick guide: granny flats building consent exemption [PDF 1.4MB]