Building approvals to be streamlined under self-certification scheme
The Government has announced major changes aimed at improving the speed and efficiency of New Zealand’s building consent process, including a new self-certification scheme and tighter performance targets for inspections.
Under the proposed changes, eligible builders, plumbers and drainlayers will be able to sign off their own work on simple residential homes, without needing full approval and inspection from a Building Consent Authority (BCA). The voluntary scheme is expected to ease pressure on BCAs by allowing them to focus on high-risk and complex builds.
Legislation to support the self-certification initiative is set to be introduced by the end of 2025. Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said the changes would help address unnecessary delays in the current system.
“Even simple, single-storey homes must go through around 12 inspections before they’re finished, with costly delays when demand is high. That’s simply not good enough when many Kiwis are locked out of the housing market,” he said.
Inspection deadlines to improve project certainty
To further reduce bottlenecks, BCAs will soon be required to complete 80% of inspections within three working days. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will issue updated guidance to help BCAs meet the new benchmark. Performance data will be reported quarterly to ensure greater transparency and accountability.
Master Builders have welcomed the announcement, noting that inspection delays can cost builders and homeowners an additional $400 per day when project timelines are disrupted.
Eligibility and oversight to ensure quality
Only trusted and proven professionals will be eligible for self-certification, and the scheme will initially apply to simple residential dwellings only. Reputable building firms delivering high volumes of near-identical homes will benefit from fewer delays, while licensed plumbers and drainlayers will gain the same flexibility already available to electricians and gasfitters.
According to Government estimates, around 3,000 homes per year could be delivered without delays caused by inspection backlogs. The goal is to lower building costs and speed up construction without compromising quality.
“These changes strike the right balance between speed and standards,” said Mr Penk. “By backing skilled professionals and focusing council resources, we can cut building costs and deliver more affordable homes for Kiwi families.”
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