At what stage should I involve a builder?
This can vary with each person and project. Some are willing to come up with a plan and design on their own and some are more than happy to have the builders expertise from the start. This can be a good idea, with any type and size of renovation or build as there tends to be complications with any project at any stage.
Engaging builders at the beginning of the process can save angst, time and money.
What kinds of work do not need a building consent?
Passed in November 2013, the Building Amendment Act 2013 made some critical changes to the things you have to do if you’re building new or renovating or doing any DIY work. Many changes relate to the types of work that do not require building consent. More low-risk work is exempt from building consent and there are limits on potentially high-risk work.
- You will be able to demolish a detached building that is not more than three storeys high without building consent.
- It’s also possible to remove a potential earthquake hazard without building consent, such as the upper part of a brick chimney that is protruding above the roof.
- Some existing outbuildings, such as carports, garages, greenhouses and sheds, can be repaired and replaced without building consent, whether they are damaged or not.
- The building work may be exempt from building consent if the new outbuilding is the same size or smaller than the original, and is on the same footprint and is a comparable outbuilding to the original. You can’t, for example, replace a carport with a garage without building consent, nor can you shift a shed to another part of your property and add an extension without building consent.
Other examples of work where a building consent is not needed:
- to insulate an existing building, except for external walls and fire-rated internal walls.
- A building consent is usually not required for building work related to a porch or veranda up to 20 square metres, and attached to the ground-floor or first-storey level.
- A building consent is usually not required for fences or hoardings up to 2.5 metres high. Note: There are separate requirements for restricting access to residential pools.
To view the complete list of building work that
does not require a building consent.
When do I need a building consent?
Examples of work that will require building consent that are detailed on the Dunedin City Council’s website.
- structural building - additions, alterations, re-piling, demolition (if the building is not detached, or is more than 3 storeys)
- installing or altering plumbing and drainage work (some work which is of a minor nature is exempt)
- relocating a building
- installing a solid fuel burner
- retaining walls higher than 1.5 metres
- fences or walls higher than 2.5 metres, and all swimming pool fences
- decks, platforms or bridges more than 1.5 metres above ground level
- erecting marquees over 100 square metres.
When in doubt, RenoMasters can assist with the building consent process.
How much will it cost to renovate a bathroom or kitchen?
This is very hard to say off the top of the head as it all depends on many factors. For example; the age and state of the property, type of upgrade needed, are we moving any walls, changing any plumbing, replacing fixtures and fittings, relining the walls - with gib or tiles...the list goes on. So, until we have a clear picture of the project (from information obtained in our questionnaire) can we put a price on the job.
Why should I use a Master Builder?
With certain projects that are restricted during a build you will need a Master Builder or a Licensed Building Practitioner to complete the work. Work involving the building structure, weather tightness, and design of fire safety systems are all required to be completed by either a Master Builder or Licensed Building Practitioner. This covers work that is critical to the integrity of a building, for example its envelope and structure.
Can I do any of the work myself?
We have no problem if you wish to carry out certain tasks. All we ask is that you discuss with us ahead of time, make sure that there are no issues with health and safety and that you are suitably qualified to undertake the task at hand.
Aren't all builders the same?
No! Nor are all renovation/building companies the same. The old adage applies here. You get what you pay for. At RenoMasters we will go the extra mile for you. This can be backed up with the ability to take out a Master Builders Guarantee - for peace of mind!
