Beginner’s Guide to an Architect’s Role in Home Renovations in New Zealand

When to Involve an Architect in NZ Home Renovations

We meet a lot of clients each week, many unsure whether they require an architect or not. Many are also intimidated by the architectural process even before starting their renovation. This sometimes hinders the client from maximising their home’s potential. This however should not be the case if you do consult with the right architectural company.

You should also remember that architectural designers that are suited for new builds are not always suited for renovation projects. Drawing house plans for a new built is straight forward compared to drawing house plans for a renovation. Home renovations like extensions etc require the architect to carefully draw plans that will extend the old structure of your home with the new structure while maintaining structural integrity of the house. If not done correctly in the architectural or build stage, your home will loose its structural integrity.

For this guide we will focus on the involvement of architectural designers for home renovations for existing homes. This guide will not include the involvement of an architectural designer for subdivision or new builds.

 

In saying that, there are many architectural designers in Auckland that do specialise in home renovations. In this guide we will cover the following:

• When is an architectural designer needed for a home renovation?
• When is an architectural designer not needed for a home renovation.
• Porches, Verandas and Pergolas
• Carrying out exempt work. Building consent exceptions for work carried out or supervised by LBP

 

1. When is a architectural designer needed for your home renovation?

Renovating your Auckland home demands precision and compliance with local regulations. At Sonder Architects, we deliver custom architectural design in NZ through detailed architectural drawings, ensuring your renovation project meets both your vision and Auckland Council’s standards.

Architectural drawings serve as the blueprint for successful renovations, guiding builders, engineers, and council inspectors. Whether you’re extending your home in Remuera, converting a garage in Mount Eden, or adding a retaining wall in Titirangi, our architectural design ensures clarity and compliance.

Drawings are critical when renovations involve structural changes, plumbing alterations, or site modifications. They provide detailed plans that streamline construction, reduce errors, and secure resource or building consents. Below, we explore key renovation scenarios requiring architectural drawings, tailored to Auckland’s unique context.

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Home Extensions: Expanding Your Auckland Property

Extensions transform Auckland homes, adding space for growing families or modern lifestyles. Whether you’re adding a new bedroom in Parnell or a sunlit living area in Devonport, architectural drawings are essential for custom architectural design in NZ. These drawings detail the extension’s dimensions, materials, and integration with your existing structure.

We often get asked why an architect needs to be involved even to extend a room by 2 metres? The answer to this is simple. Despite, just a minor extension, your builder still needs to join a new constructed part for your home which connects with the old. This requires precision as the structural integrity needs to be maintained. This requires using the correct materials and carrying out the construction based on precise angles. These angles are exactly the architectural drawings that are carried out by an architectural designer which is then approved by the council for construction to begin. The inspections are then carried out by the council during the extension to ensure that your builder has carried out the construction based on plans. If the inspection fails during your extension process, the builder will have to remedy his work until it passes.

Our team creates precise plans showing floor layouts, elevations, and structural elements like foundations and roofing. We account for Auckland’s Unitary Plan zoning rules, ensuring your extension complies with height-to-boundary ratios and site coverage limits (Auckland Unitary Plan). For coastal properties, we incorporate weatherproofing to combat Auckland’s humid climate, using materials like treated timber to prevent moisture damage.

Architectural drawings also address site-specific challenges, such as sloping sections in Westmere. We include cross-sections and site plans to ensure proper drainage and foundation stability, critical for Auckland’s volcanic terrain. These drawings secure council approval and guide builders, saving time and costs.

 

Garage Conversions: Repurposing Space in Auckland Homes

Converting a garage into a living space, home office, or rental unit maximises your Auckland property’s potential. In suburbs like Grey Lynn or Ponsonby, where space is at a premium, garage conversions offer cost-effective solutions. However, these projects require detailed architectural design to meet building codes and ensure functionality.

A garage is considered an non habitable place by Auckland council and has certain requirements to be built. However, if you are now going to convert it into a livable space like a rumpus or a granny flat, then gets into the category of habitable space. The set of rules, requirements and regulations for a habitable space are completely different. You will now have to bridge this gap and bring it from a non habitable space to a habitable space which has to be done based on strict regulations.

An architect is hence needed to draw precise plans based on which the builder will convert your garage. Basically its the same principle as an extension, where a knowledge of ever changing building codes, and being able to draw architectural are vital for construction. A builder or renovation company on the other hand will not have this skillset or knowledge, hence the involvement of an architect.

If you want to include plumbing and waste pipes, the involvement of an architect will be even more vital. The reason is that the architect will have to go over your property file which only an architect can read and not a builder/renovation company. Based on that the architect will also have to see whether its possible as there could be obstructions underneath that garage which may not allow for constructing pipes underneath. Another reason would be that the architect will have to create precise drawings from the location of plumbing needed to connect to the plumbing of council pipes in your area.

Our architectural drawings for garage conversions include floor plans, insulation details, and window placements to enhance natural light, vital for Auckland’s overcast days. We also address ventilation, as converted garages must comply with New Zealand’s Healthy Homes Standards, ensuring adequate airflow and heating (Tenancy Services). For example, we specify high-performance glazing to maintain energy efficiency, reducing heating costs in Auckland’s cooler months.

Structural changes, like removing internal walls or adding doorways, require precise drawings to confirm load-bearing integrity. We collaborate with structural engineers to ensure your conversion meets Building Code requirements, particularly for seismic resilience in Auckland’s earthquake-prone region (MBIE Building Code). These drawings streamline council consents, ensuring your project progresses smoothly.

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Adding Waste Pipes: Plumbing Upgrades in Renovations

Installing new waste pipes for bathrooms, kitchens, or laundry spaces is common in Auckland renovations, especially in older homes in Herne Bay or Epsom.

Similar to adding plumbing or waste pipes for a garage conversion, your builder will need to follow precise drawings to construct waste pipes from your bathroom’s location to the location council’s waste pipes around your home.

Drawings specify pipe routes, gradients, and connections to Auckland’s wastewater network, managed by Watercare (Watercare). Your architect will account for site constraints, such as shallow soil in volcanic areas like Mount Albert, ensuring pipes avoid underground obstacles. For multi-storey homes, we design vertical waste stacks to maintain efficient drainage, preventing blockages.

Architectural drawings also address environmental considerations. Auckland’s focus on water conservation requires efficient waste systems. Architects will incorporate greywater recycling options where feasible, aligning with the city’s sustainability goals. These plans ensure plumbers follow precise specifications, minimizing costly rework and securing council approval.

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Scenario	Consent Required?	Details/Conditions
General repairs, maintenance, and replacement	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 1)	Includes replacing sanitary fixtures (e.g., toilets, showers, basins) with similar items in the same position. Must use comparable materials, equipment, or components. Does not apply if structural alterations or changes to drainage systems are involved. Must comply with the Building Code (e.g., plumbing and drainage standards under Clause G13).
Replacing a bath with a shower	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 1)	Considered a like-for-like replacement if the shower is in the same position. No consent needed unless it involves new drainage, structural changes (e.g., removing walls), or waterproofing alterations that affect Building Code compliance. Plumbing work must be done by an authorized person (e.g., licensed plumber).
Installing a new wet-area shower	Yes	Requires a building consent if installing a new shower where none existed, as it involves new drainage and waterproofing systems. Must meet Building Code requirements for waterproofing (Clause E3) and drainage (Clause G13). Plumbing and drainage work requires an authorized tradesperson.
Altering or removing load-bearing walls	Yes	Any structural changes, such as removing or modifying load-bearing walls in a bathroom, require a building consent. Must be assessed by a structural engineer to ensure compliance with Building Code Clause B1 (Structure).
Adding a new bathroom	Yes	Creating a new bathroom in a different location (e.g., converting a room) requires a building consent. Involves new plumbing, drainage, ventilation (Clause G4), and waterproofing systems, all of which must comply with the Building Code. Requires work by licensed professionals (e.g., plumbers, builders).
Changing the position of sanitary fixtures	Yes (unless minor)	Moving fixtures (e.g., toilet, shower) to a new position within the bathroom may require a consent if it involves new drainage or plumbing routes. Minor adjustments might be exempt if they don’t affect existing drainage or structural elements, but confirmation with the local council is recommended. Must comply with Building Code Clause G13 (Foul Water).
Waterproofing alterations	Yes (in most cases)	Installing or altering waterproofing membranes (e.g., for a tiled shower) typically requires a consent, due to its impact on Building Code Clause E3 (Internal Moisture). Exemptions may apply for minor repairs using comparable materials, but new or replacement waterproofing systems generally need council approval. Work must be done by a licensed professional to ensure compliance.
Installing or altering ventilation systems	Yes (if new or significant changes)	Adding a new ventilation system (e.g., exhaust fan) or significantly modifying an existing one may require a consent to ensure compliance with Building Code Clause G4 (Ventilation). Minor maintenance or replacement of a fan with a similar model in the same position is exempt under Schedule 1.
Work affecting fire safety systems	Yes	If the renovation impacts fire safety (e.g., altering fire-rated walls or escape routes), a building consent is required to ensure compliance with Building Code Clause C (Protection from Fire). Common in multi-unit buildings or where bathrooms are near escape paths.
Plumbing and drainage work by unauthorized persons	Not exempt (Consent required)	All plumbing and drainage work must be carried out or supervised by an authorized person (e.g., licensed plumber) under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006. Unauthorized work is not exempt and may require a consent or certificate of acceptance if already completed.

 

Making Beams for Load-Bearing Walls: Structural Precision

Removing or modifying load-bearing walls to create open-plan spaces is a popular renovation in Auckland’s heritage villas and modern homes alike. In suburbs like Mount Eden or Newmarket, homeowners seek airy layouts that blend indoor-outdoor living. However, these changes demand architectural drawings to ensure structural safety through architectural design.

Your architect’s drawings detail the size, material, and placement of beams or lintels to support loads previously carried by the wall. Your architect will also collaborate with structural engineers to specify steel or timber beams, factoring in Auckland’s seismic requirements. For example, we use high-strength steel beams for larger spans in open-plan designs, ensuring compliance with NZS 3604 standards (Standards New Zealand).

Drawings include precise measurements and connection details, such as how beams integrate with existing foundations or roof structures. Your architect and builder will also consider aesthetic integration, concealing beams within ceiling lines for a sleek finish. These plans are critical for council consents, as Auckland Council rigorously assesses structural alterations to ensure safety.

Adding a Retaining Wall: Managing Auckland’s Terrain

Auckland’s hilly suburbs, like Titirangi or Orakei, often require retaining walls to manage sloping sites or create usable outdoor spaces. These structures need architectural drawings to ensure stability, drainage, and compliance with local regulations. Our custom architectural design in NZ delivers tailored solutions for Auckland’s unique topography.

Your architectural drawings specify the wall’s height, materials (e.g., concrete, timber, or stone), and reinforcement details. We account for soil conditions, common in Auckland’s clay-heavy or volcanic soils, to prevent subsidence. Drainage plans, such as weep holes or gravel backfill, mitigate water buildup, critical during Auckland’s heavy rainfall (NIWA Climate Data).

 

We also ensure compliance with Auckland’s Unitary Plan, particularly for walls over 1.5 meters, which require resource consent. Our drawings include site plans and cross-sections, showing how the wall integrates with your property’s layout. These plans streamline council approvals and guide contractors, ensuring a durable, visually appealing result.

 

Navigating Auckland’s Regulatory Landscape

Auckland’s renovation projects require careful adherence to the Building Act 2004 and the Auckland Unitary Plan. Our architectural drawings simplify the consenting process for extensions, garage conversions, waste pipes, beams, and retaining walls. We liaise with Auckland Council, preparing detailed plans that address zoning, heritage overlays, and environmental impacts.

For example, renovations in heritage zones like Parnell require drawings that respect historical aesthetics while meeting modern standards. We ensure compliance with character area guidelines, preserving Auckland’s architectural heritage (Auckland Council Heritage). Our expertise minimizes delays, ensuring your project moves forward efficiently.

Sustainability in Auckland Renovations

Sustainability drives our architectural design. Auckland’s climate action goals push for energy-efficient and eco-friendly renovations. Our drawings incorporate passive design principles, such as orienting extensions for maximum sunlight or specifying insulation for garage conversions. These choices reduce energy costs, aligning with Auckland’s low-carbon vision (Auckland Climate Plan).

For waste pipe upgrades, we design water-saving systems, like low-flow fixtures, to support Watercare’s conservation efforts. Retaining walls use locally sourced materials to reduce transport emissions, and beams are specified with sustainable timber where possible. These features enhance your home’s value while protecting Auckland’s environment.

Read more:

Architectural Design process in NZ 2025

Building consent for 2025 explained

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2. When is an architectural designer not needed for a home renovation?

This part of our article explores when consents are not needed for bathroom, kitchen, outdoor, and general home renovations.. Always verify exemptions with your local council, as regional variations may apply.

Bathroom Renovations: When Consent Isn’t Required

As Bathroom renovations often involves plumbing, waterproofing, and structural considerations, making consent requirements a common concern. However, several low-risk bathroom projects qualify for exemptions, enabling designers to craft functional and aesthetic spaces without council approval.

Exempt Bathroom Renovation Activities

• Like-for-Like Fixture Replacements: Replace existing fixtures, such as taps, vanities, bathtubs, or showers, without altering plumbing or drainage systems. For example, swapping an old vanity for a modern one or installing a new proprietary shower unit in the same location requires no consent. Designers can focus on aesthetic upgrades, specifying high-quality fixtures in home plans. You do not need an architect for this, but merely a renovation designer to understand the aesthetics.

• Cosmetic Updates: Paint walls, install new tiles, or add non-structural cabinetry without modifying plumbing or structural elements. These changes enhance visual appeal and functionality, allowing designers to experiment with textures and layouts in their plans.

• Repositioning Fixtures Without Adding New Ones: Move a vanity, bath, shower, or toilet within the existing bathroom space, provided no new sanitary fixtures are added and plumbing modifications remain minor. For instance, relocating a shower within the same room avoids consent if drainage systems stay unchanged. Designers can optimise spatial flow in home plans without triggering consent requirements.

• Removing a Bath for a Shower: Replace a bath with a shower-over-bath or a proprietary shower unit, as long as no additional waste pipes are installed. This exemption supports accessible design solutions, such as walk-in showers, which designers can incorporate into plans for aging-in-place renovations.

Consent Triggers to Avoid

Consent is required for bathroom renovations involving:

• Structural changes, such as moving or removing load-bearing walls.

• Significant plumbing alterations, like installing new pipes or modifying drainage.

• Adding new sanitary fixtures, such as an extra toilet or shower.

• Installing tiled wet-area showers, which involve waterproofing membranes and critical building work.

• Modifications in multi-level buildings that affect fire separations or structural integrity.

Kitchen Renovations: Streamlining Consent-Free Designs

Kitchen renovations are a focal point for homeowners seeking modern, functional spaces. Many kitchen projects qualify for exemptions, allowing architectural designers to create bold home plans without navigating the consent process.

Most of the times kitchen renovations would not require consent as it involves changing cabinetry and benchtop. However, sometimes when you are trying to demolish a wall to make it an open planed kitchen then you may encounter a load bearing wall. You will also need an architectural designer if you there are major plumbing changes like relocating a sink or installing a new drainage system. You will also require an architectural designer if you rewiring or adding new circuits, or installing new windows and external doors.

Exempt Kitchen Renovation Activities

• Cabinet and Countertop Replacements: If you are replacing your cabinetry, and benchtop then you do not require consent. If you are also keeping all plumbing and electric sockets in the same place there is no need for consent. For example, installing new cabinetry or a quartz countertop in the same footprint requires no consent. Designers can specify custom storage solutions or premium materials to elevate aesthetics.

• Cosmetic Enhancements: Cosmetic upgrades like painting walls, installing backsplash tiles, or upgrade flooring with non-structural materials also requires no consent. These updates allow designers to introduce contemporary styles, such as minimalist or industrial designs, in home plans.

• Like-for-Like Sink Replacements: Replacing a sink without changing its location or modifying plumbing connections will also require no consent. This exemption supports seamless upgrades, enabling designers to specify modern sink designs without triggering consent.

• Non-Structural Partition Changes: Installing or removing non-load-bearing partitions within the kitchen space, provided they do not affect the building’s weathertightness or structural integrity will require no consent. Designers can use this flexibility to create open-plan layouts or define zones in home plans.

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Outdoor Renovations: Maximising Exemption Opportunities

Outdoor renovations such as decks, sheds and landscaping offer significant scope for consent free projects. These types of renovations only require a designer to show you the visuals with no architectural drawings needed.

Exempt Outdoor Renovation Activities

• Low-Height Decks and Platforms: Building decks or platforms up to 1.5 meters above ground level. For example, a ground-level deck for outdoor dining requires no consent. You just require a designer for visuals or you can even show your builder a picture and materials that you like for the renovation to take place.

• Small Sheds and Structures: Constructing single storey detached buildings such as sheds, greenhouses or a rumpus room with a floor area below 30 square meters requires no consent. However, they need to be built using light weight materials or has to be designed by Licensed building practitioner or Professional engineer. These structures cannot include kitchen or bathroom facilities. Designers can create plans for stylish storage sheds or garden studios.

• Fences and Walls: You can build fences or walls up t0 2.5 meters high without requiring consent. This exemption supports privacy-focused designs, allowing designers to incorporate modern fencing materials, such as timber or metal, into outdoor plans.

• Outdoor Fireplaces: Building permanent outdoor fireplaces or ovens up to 2.5 meters high with a cooking surface of 1 square meter requires no consent. However they have to be at least 1 meter from boundaries or buildings. Designers can integrate these features into outdoor entertaining areas.

• Ground-Mounted Solar Panels: You can also install solar panel arrays up to 20 square meters in urban zones. This exemption aligns with sustainable design trends, enabling designers to include renewable energy solutions in home plans.

• Pergolas and Sheds: Homeowners or builders construct pergolas without consent, provided they are lightweight, open structures with no solid roofing or walls that affect weathertightness. Schedule 1, clause 9, exempts pergolas with a maximum height of 2.5 meters above ground and no enclosed walls, as they pose minimal structural or weathertightness risks. Pergolas must comply with Building Code clause B1 (Structure) for wind and load resistance and clause E2 (External Moisture) to avoid impacting the main building.

Consent Triggers to Avoid

Consent is required for outdoor renovations involving:

• Retaining walls over 1.5 meters high (or 3 meters in rural areas with engineer design).

• Decks or platforms exceeding 1.5 meters in height.

• Sheds over 30 square meters or those with plumbing facilities.

• Fences or walls over 2.5 meters high.

• Short-span bridges over 6 meters or spanning roads/railways.

• When pergolas are larger that 30 square meters.

 

Scenario	Consent Required?	Details/Conditions
General repairs, maintenance, and replacement	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 1)	Repairing or replacing components (e.g., deck boards, fence panels) using comparable materials in the same position. Must comply with the Building Code (e.g., structural stability under Clause B1, durability under Clause B2). Does not apply if structural or weathertightness elements are altered. Work by unauthorized persons may void exemption.
Single-storey detached buildings up to 10m²	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 2)	Applies to sheds, sleep-outs, or similar with a floor area up to 10m². Must not contain sanitary facilities or potable water storage. Must comply with district plan rules (e.g., boundary setbacks) and Building Code (Clause B1). From 31 August 2020, some councils may allow up to 30m² if designed by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP). Check with local council.
Single-storey detached buildings up to 30m² (LBP-designed)	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 3, from 31 August 2020)	Applies to sheds, carports, or sleep-outs up to 30m² if designed or constructed by an LBP or Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng). Must not include plumbing or drainage. Must comply with Building Code (e.g., Clauses B1, B2) and district plan rules. Local council confirmation required, as some councils may impose stricter limits.
Pergolas up to 20m², fully open	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 9)	Single-storey pergolas with a floor area up to 20m², fully open on all sides. Must be at ground level or comply with height-to-boundary rules if elevated. Must meet Building Code (Clause B1) and not affect fire safety (Clause C). District plan rules (e.g., setbacks) apply.
Pergolas up to 30m², fully open, on or for a dwelling	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 10)	Pergolas attached to a dwelling, up to 30m², fully open on all sides. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. Restricted building work (e.g., structural attachments) requires an LBP. Check with local council for height or setback restrictions.
Decks or platforms up to 1.5m above ground	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 6)	Decks, platforms, or terraces up to 1.5m above ground level. Must comply with Building Code (e.g., structural stability, Clause B1; durability, Clause B2). Must adhere to district plan rules (e.g., boundary setbacks). If attached to a building, may require an LBP for restricted work.
Fences or walls up to 2.5m high	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 7)	Fences or walls up to 2.5m in height, including garden walls or boundary fences. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. Swimming pool fences are not exempt and require consent. Check local council for additional restrictions (e.g., heritage areas).
Retaining walls up to 1.5m high	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 8)	Retaining walls up to 1.5m high, not supporting surcharge or buildings. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. If designed by a CPEng, rural retaining walls up to 3m may be exempt. Confirmation with local council recommended.
Outdoor fireplaces or ovens up to 2.5m high	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 11, from 31 August 2020)	Permanent outdoor fireplaces or ovens up to 2.5m high with a cooking surface up to 1m². Must be at least 1m from boundaries or buildings. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and local fire regulations. Check with council for open fire restrictions.
Ground-mounted solar panel arrays up to 20m² (urban)	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 12, from 31 August 2020)	Solar panel arrays up to 20m² in urban zones, no professional required. Arrays 20–40m² require CPEng design or review. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. Check council for height or setback restrictions.
Flexible water storage bladders up to 200,000L	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 13, from 31 August 2020)	Ground-supported bladders for irrigation or firefighting, up to 200,000L. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. Check with council for environmental or zoning restrictions.
Decks or platforms over 1.5m above ground	Yes	Decks or platforms exceeding 1.5m in height require a building consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses B1, B2, F4 for safety barriers). Requires LBP for restricted work and may need CPEng review. District plan rules (e.g., setbacks, height) apply.
Fences or walls over 2.5m high	Yes	Fences or walls exceeding 2.5m require a building consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. May require CPEng design for structural stability. All swimming pool fences require consent, regardless of height.
Retaining walls over 1.5m high	Yes	Retaining walls over 1.5m, or supporting surcharge/buildings, require a consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and district plan rules. Requires CPEng design and LBP for construction. Rural walls up to 3m may be exempt if CPEng-designed.
Pergolas exceeding 20m² (or 30m² for dwellings)	Yes	Pergolas over 20m² (or 30m² if attached to a dwelling) require a consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses B1, B2) and district plan rules. Requires LBP for restricted work and may need CPEng review. Check council for height or setback restrictions.
Pergolas with enclosed sides or solid roof	Yes	Pergolas with walls or solid roofing are considered buildings and require a consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses B1, B2, E2 for weathertightness). Requires LBP for restricted work and professional design. District plan rules apply.
Single-storey detached buildings over 30m²	Yes	Buildings over 30m² (e.g., sheds, sleep-outs) require a building consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses B1, B2, C for fire safety). Requires LBP for restricted work and may need plumbing/drainage consents. District plan rules apply.
Work affecting load-bearing structures	Yes	Outdoor renovations (e.g., pergolas, decks) attached to load-bearing structures require a consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clause B1) and be assessed by a CPEng. Requires LBP for restricted building work. Check council for additional requirements.
Plumbing or drainage work (e.g., outdoor kitchens)	Yes	Outdoor renovations involving plumbing or drainage require a consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses G12, G13) and be done by a licensed plumber. Exemptions may apply for minor repairs with comparable materials. Check council for wastewater or stormwater rules.
Swimming pools and associated fences	Yes	All swimming pools and their fences require a building consent. Must comply with Building Code (Clauses B1, F9 for pool barriers) and Fencing of Swimming Pools Act 1987. Requires regular council inspections. Check district plan for zoning rules.
Work in multi-unit or commercial properties	Yes (in most cases)	Outdoor renovations in multi-unit or commercial settings typically require a consent due to impacts on fire safety (Clause C), structural integrity (Clause B1), or shared boundaries. Must comply with Building Code and district plan rules. May require body corporate or additional approvals. Check with council for specific requirements.

 

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3. Porches, Verandas and Pergolas

In this section of the article we will delve further into understanding the key differences between porches, verandas and pergolas according to Auckland council. The terminology is often used interchangeably which often causes confusion for our clients. All three of them also have different regulations in terms of their size, exemptions and council permits requirements.

Understanding Porches and Verandas

Porches and verandas enhance homes with functional, sheltered outdoor spaces. A porch is a roofed structure projecting from a building’s face, often open at the front, protecting entrances. A veranda is a longer, roofed structure that may extend along one or more sides of a building. Both are typically built with durable materials and may cover raised decks or patios.

Key considerations for design:

• Stormwater Management: Ensure compliance with Building Code requirements for roof stormwater disposal. Engage an Authorised Drainlayer for new drains and consider professional guidance for council approvals.
• District Planning: Verify your design aligns with local council rules, including site coverage, setback requirements, daylight access planes, and permitted activities. Obtain resource consent if required.
• Fire Safety: If building near boundaries, incorporate Building Code requirements for fire protection, particularly to prevent external fire spread to neighboring properties.

Exemptions for Porches and Verandas

Exemptions simplify the process for adding porches or verandas as they do not require building consent provided specific conditions are met.

Exemptions 1:

Porches and Verandas are up to 20 Square metres: You can build or extend a porch or veranda up to 20 square metres without a building consent if it:

• Attaches to an existing building which would be your home.
• Sits at the ground or first storey level. You will not be able to extend your porch or veranda from 2nd storey onwards.
• Does not exceed more than 20 square metres in floor area.
• Does not overhang areas accessible to the public (e.g., restaurants or bars).

Some of the examples of the above exemptions is removing a 20 square metres porch from a dwelling’s entry, extending an existing 10 square metres veranda to 20 square metres for a ground floor apartments and building a 15 square metres roofed structure with open sidesto shelter a ground to floor entrance.

Non-Exempt for Porches and Verandas

• Extending a 10-square-metre veranda to 35 square metres requires a building consent due to exceeding the size limit.
• Building a veranda on a fourth-floor flat requires a consent as it’s not on the ground floor.
• Constructing a 15-square-metre veranda for a restaurant’s outdoor eating area needs a consent due to public access.

Exemption 2: Porches and Verandas (20–30 Square Metres, Engineer-Designed)

Effective from 31 August 2020, you can build or extend a porch or veranda between 20 and 30 square metres without a building consent if:

• The design is carried out or reviewed by a Chartered Professional Engineer.
• The work follows the engineer’s design.
• The structure attaches to an existing building.
• It sits at ground level.
• It does not exceed 30 square metres.
• It does not overhang public-accessible areas.

Examples:

• Extend a porch from 10 to 25 square metres at ground level, designed by a Chartered Professional Engineer.
• Increase a veranda from 20 to 30 square metres for a ground-floor apartment, following an engineer’s design.
• Use pre-engineered kitset products for a 30-square-metre veranda, signed off by a Chartered Professional Engineer.

Non-Exempt:

• Building a 25-square-metre veranda on a first-floor commercial building requires a consent due to its location.
• Constructing a 35-square-metre veranda, even without public access, needs a consent as it exceeds the size limit.

 

Exemption 3: Porches and Verandas (20–30 Square Metres, LBP or Architect)

You can build or extend a porch or veranda between 20 and 30 square metres without a building consent if:

• A Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or Registered Architect designs or supervises the work.
• The structure attaches to an existing building.
• It sits at ground level.
• It does not exceed 30 square metres.
• It does not overhang public-accessible areas.

Examples:

• Extend a 10-square-metre porch to 25 square metres at ground level, designed and built by an LBP.
• Add a 30-square-metre veranda to a private home, supervised by an LBP or Registered Architect.

Non-Exempt:

• Building a 25-square-metre veranda on a first-floor commercial building requires a consent.
• A 30-square-metre veranda built by a non-LBP homeowner needs a consent.

Exemption 4: Enclosing Verandas or Patios (Up to 5 Square Metres)

ou can enclose an existing veranda or patio to create a small enclosed space (e.g., a conservatory) without a building consent if:

• The enclosed area does not exceed 5 square metres.

Examples:

• Enclose a 4.5-square-metre patio with glazing.
• Partially enclose a veranda to create a 5-square-metre sunroom with glazed window joinery.

Non-Exempt:

• Enclosing a 15-square-metre veranda into a conservatory requires a building consent due to exceeding the size limit.

Pergolas

Pergolas are simple, unroofed framed structures used as garden features or decorative element or as an simple structure for shade. They can freestanding or attached to a building.

 

If you have a standalone kitset pergola on your backyard then you do not need any consent. Custom built pergolas that are attached to your dwelling, have a roof and are under 20 square metres do not require consent. If they are between 20 square metres and 30 square metres, they do need to be inspected by a LBP for them to be considered legal. In case they are above 30 square metres, they do require consent from Auckland council.

 

Scenario	Consent Required?	Details/Conditions
Pergola up to 20m² floor area, fully open on all sides	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 9)	Applies to single-storey pergolas with a maximum floor area of 20 square meters. Must be fully open on all sides (no walls or enclosed sides). Must be at ground level or, if elevated, comply with height-to-boundary rules. Must comply with the Building Code (e.g., structural stability under Clause B1). Must not affect other Building Code requirements (e.g., fire safety, Clause C).
Pergola up to 30m² floor area, fully open, on or for a dwelling	No (Exempt under Schedule 1, Part 1, Clause 10)	Applies to pergolas on or attached to a dwelling, with a maximum floor area of 30 square meters. Must be fully open on all sides (no walls or enclosures). Must be at ground level or comply with district plan height-to-boundary rules if elevated. Must meet Building Code requirements for structural integrity (Clause B1) and not compromise other clauses (e.g., fire safety, Clause C). Work must be carried out by a licensed building practitioner (LBP) if it involves restricted building work (e.g., structural elements).
Pergola exceeding 20m² (or 30m² for dwellings), fully open	Yes	Pergolas larger than 20m² (or 30m² if attached to a dwelling) require a building consent. Must comply with Building Code clauses, including B1 (Structure) and B2 (Durability). Requires structural design and documentation, often verified by a structural engineer. Must adhere to local council district plan rules (e.g., height, boundary setbacks).
Pergola with enclosed sides or roof	Yes	Pergolas with walls, partial enclosures, or solid roofing (e.g., not fully open) are considered buildings under the Building Act and require a consent. Must meet Building Code requirements for weathertightness (Clause E2), structural stability (Clause B1), and fire safety (Clause C, if applicable). Requires professional design and construction, often involving an LBP.
Pergola affecting load-bearing structures	Yes	If the pergola is attached to a dwelling and involves modifications to load-bearing walls or structural elements, a building consent is required. Must be assessed by a structural engineer to ensure compliance with Building Code Clause B1 (Structure). Requires an LBP for restricted building work.
Pergola exceeding district plan height or boundary rules	Yes	Pergolas exceeding height-to-boundary ratios or other district plan rules (e.g., setbacks) require a building consent and may also need a resource consent. Must comply with local council planning requirements and Building Code Clause B1 (Structure).
Pergola in a multi-unit building or commercial property	Yes (in most cases)	Pergolas in multi-unit residential or commercial settings typically require a consent due to potential impacts on fire safety (Clause C), structural integrity (Clause B1), or shared property boundaries. Must comply with district plan rules and may require additional approvals (e.g., body corporate consent).
Pergola involving plumbing or drainage	Yes	If the pergola includes plumbing or drainage (e.g., for an outdoor kitchen area), a building consent is required for the affected systems. Must comply with Building Code Clauses G12 (Water Supplies) and G13 (Foul Water). Plumbing and drainage work must be done by a licensed plumber under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006.

 

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4. Who can carry out Exempt Work?

Exempt work varies in complexity, and the Building Act specifies who can undertake it:

• Homeowners/DIY Enthusiasts: Homeowners perform simple tasks like minor repairs, painting, or building small sheds under 10 square meters, using compliant materials and following the Building Code.
• Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs): Exemptions like single-storey buildings up to 30 square meters require an LBP to design or supervise the work.
• Chartered Professional Engineers (CPEng): Kitset or prefabricated buildings up to 30 square meters need CPEng-reviewed designs.
• Registered Plumbers/Drainlayers: Exempt plumbing work, like minor pipe repairs, requires professionals authorized under the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Act 2006.
• Registered Electricians: Electrical work, even if exempt, must comply with regulations and be performed by a registered electrician.

Designers should confirm professional qualifications and advise clients on responsibilities. If exemptions are unclear, recommend a discretionary exemption application or a full building consent to ensure compliance.

Designers at Sonder we enhance client outcomes by leveraging exemptions effectively:

• Verify Exemptions Early: Use MBIE’s guidance and consult councils to confirm exemptions, avoiding redesigns.
• Detail Plans Precisely: Note that replacements use comparable materials and stay in existing positions, and specify pergola designs as open and under 2.5 meters.
• Engage Professionals: Recommend LBPs, CPEng, or registered tradespeople for exempt work requiring oversight, including certifications in documentation.
• Document Work: Advise clients to notify councils of exempt work, including pergolas, and keep records (e.g., plans, receipts, certifications) for property sales.
• Plan for Discretionary Exemptions: For projects slightly outside exemption criteria (e.g., a pergola with partial roofing), prepare discretionary exemption applications with compliance evidence.
• Educate Clients: Provide checklists of exempt vs. consent-required work, referencing Schedule 1, and highlight Building Code compliance

Building consent exemptions empower designers at www.sonder.co.nz to create efficient, compliant home plans. Schedule 1 exemptions cover minor repairs, non-structural changes, pergolas, and small outdoor structures, often performed by homeowners or overseen by LBPs, CPEng, or registered tradespeople. Consent is required for structural alterations, new plumbing, electrical systems, or pergolas with solid roofing. By using MBIE’s resources, consulting councils, and documenting work, designers deliver cost-effective, regulation-compliant renovations for bathroom, kitchen, outdoor, and general home projects, enhancing client satisfaction and project success.

What are porches, verandas, and pergolas under New Zealand building exemptions?

A porch is a roofed structure projecting from a building, often open at the front, to shelter entrances. A veranda is a longer, roofed structure that may extend along one or more sides of a building. A pergola is a simple, unroofed, framed structure used as a garden feature, either freestanding or attached, with no size limits.

Do I need a building consent for a porch or veranda up to 20 square metres?

No, you can build or extend a porch or veranda up to 20 square metres without a building consent if it’s attached to an existing building, on the ground or first-storey level, and doesn’t overhang public areas (e.g., restaurants). For example, extending a 10-square-metre veranda to 20 square metres is exempt.

Can I build a porch or veranda larger than 20 square metres without a consent?

Yes, you can build or extend a porch or veranda between 20 and 30 square metres without a consent if: (1) a Chartered Professional Engineer designs or reviews it, or (2) a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) or Registered Architect designs or supervises it. The structure must be at ground level, attached to a building, and not overhang public areas. For example, a 25-square-metre porch designed by an engineer is exempt.

Can I enclose a veranda or patio without a building consent?

Yes, you can enclose an existing veranda or patio to create a space like a conservatory without a consent, provided the enclosed area is 5 square metres or less. For example, enclosing a 4.5-square-metre patio with glazing is exempt. Enclosing a 15-square-metre veranda requires a consent.

Do pergolas require a building consent?

No, pergolas don’t need a building consent if they remain unroofed and open-framed, with no size or height restrictions. For example, a 100-square-metre vineyard pergola or a 10-square-metre pergola over a deck is exempt. Adding roofing, like polycarbonate, requires a consent as it becomes a veranda.

Do public porches, verandas, or pergolas need a building consent?

Porches and verandas overhanging public areas, such as a 15-square-metre restaurant veranda, require a building consent due to public access, regardless of size. Pergolas in public spaces, like a 250-meter-long unroofed pergola in a park, are exempt if they remain open-framed and unroofed, as they meet the exemption criteria for pergolas.

What should I check before designing a porch, veranda, or pergola?

Confirm compliance with local council rules on site coverage, setbacks, daylight access planes, and permitted activities, as resource consent may be required. Ensure stormwater management meets Building Code standards, using an Authorised Drainlayer for new drains. For porches or verandas near boundaries, incorporate fire safety requirements to prevent external fire spread.

How can Sonder assist with my porch, veranda, or pergola project?

Sonder specializes in crafting architectural designs that comply with New Zealand’s building regulations, ensuring your porch, veranda, or pergola enhances your home while meeting exemption criteria. We provide tailored plans to bring your vision to life. Explore our services at www.sonder.co.nz.

Why do I need architectural drawings for home renovations in Auckland?

Architectural drawings ensure your renovation, whether an extension or garage conversion, complies with Auckland Council’s regulations and the New Zealand Building Code. At Sonder, our custom architectural design in NZ provides detailed plans for structural changes, plumbing upgrades, or retaining walls, streamlining consents and guiding builders to bring your vision to life accurately.

When are architectural drawings required for home extensions in Auckland?

You need architectural drawings for home extensions in Auckland when adding new rooms, altering structural elements, or exceeding Unitary Plan limits, such as site coverage or height-to-boundary ratios. Our architectural design includes precise floor plans, elevations, and drainage details, ensuring compliance with Auckland’s zoning rules and coastal climate conditions.

How do architectural drawings support garage conversions in Auckland?

Garage conversions require architectural drawings to detail insulation, ventilation, and structural changes, ensuring compliance with Healthy Homes Standards and seismic requirements. Sonder’s custom architectural design in NZ specifies window placements for natural light and layouts for functional living spaces, ideal for Auckland’s compact suburbs like Ponsonby.

Are architectural drawings necessary for adding waste pipes during renovations?

Yes, adding waste pipes for bathrooms or kitchens in Auckland requires drawings to map pipe routes, gradients, and connections to Watercare’s wastewater system. Our architectural design ensures efficient drainage and compliance with plumbing regulations, addressing Auckland’s clay-heavy soils or multi-storey home challenges.

What role do architectural drawings play in modifying load-bearing walls?

Removing or altering load-bearing walls in Auckland homes, like those in Mount Eden villas, requires drawings to specify beams or lintels for structural support. Sonder’s custom architectural design in NZ details beam sizes, materials, and connections, meeting NZS 3604 standards and securing council approval for safe, open-plan designs.

Do I need architectural drawings for a retaining wall in Auckland?

Retaining walls over 1.5 meters or in Auckland’s hilly suburbs like Titirangi require architectural drawings for resource consent. Our architectural design includes specifications for materials, reinforcement, and drainage, ensuring stability in Auckland’s volcanic soils and compliance with the Unitary Plan.

How does Sonder ensure sustainability in Auckland renovation projects?

Sonder integrates sustainability into custom architectural design in NZ by specifying energy-efficient insulation, low-flow plumbing, and locally sourced materials. For extensions domínio or garage conversions, our drawings prioritize passive design, like optimal orientation for sunlight, aligning with Auckland’s low-carbon goals outlined in the Auckland Climate Plan.

How do architectural drawings simplify Auckland’s council consent process?

Our architectural design includes detailed plans addressing Auckland’s Unitary Plan, heritage overlays, and environmental regulations. For extensions, waste pipes, or retaining walls, Sonder’s drawings streamline resource and building consents by clearly outlining compliance with zoning, structural, and drainage requirements, saving you time.

Can Sonder’s architectural drawings accommodate Auckland’s unique terrain?

Yes, our custom architectural design in NZ accounts for Auckland’s volcanic terrain and coastal microclimates. For sloping sites in Orakei or wet conditions in Henderson, our drawings specify foundations, drainage, and weatherproofing, ensuring your extension or retaining wall thrives in Auckland’s environment.

How do I start my renovation project with Sonder in Auckland?

Contact Sonder at www.sonder.co.nz to book a consultation. We’ll discuss your renovation goals—whether an extension, garage conversion, or structural upgrade—and create tailored architectural design drawings to transform your Auckland home while meeting regulatory and sustainability standards.

How do architectural drawings ensure quality in Auckland home extensions?

Architectural drawings from Sonder’s custom architectural design in NZ provide builders with precise specifications for your Auckland home extension, ensuring high-quality construction. Our plans detail materials, dimensions, and structural elements, like weatherproof cladding for coastal areas like Mission Bay, minimizing errors and ensuring your extension enhances both aesthetics and functionality.

What makes Sonder’s architectural design for garage conversions unique in Auckland?

Sonder’s architectural design transforms Auckland garages into versatile spaces, like home offices or rental units, with drawings tailored to your needs. We incorporate Auckland-specific features, such as insulation for winter warmth and natural ventilation for humid summers, ensuring compliance with Healthy Homes Standards and creating comfortable, practical spaces in suburbs like Grey Lynn.

Why are architectural drawings critical for waste pipe installations in Auckland renovations?

Waste pipe installations in Auckland homes, especially in older properties in Epsom, require architectural drawings to map efficient plumbing routes and ensure compliance with Watercare’s standards. Our custom architectural design in NZ specifies pipe gradients and connections, preventing drainage issues in Auckland’s clay soils and securing council approval swiftly.

How do Sonder’s architectural drawings address seismic concerns for load-bearing wall changes?

Auckland’s earthquake-prone region demands robust structural planning. Our architectural design for load-bearing wall modifications includes detailed beam specifications, adhering to NZS 3604 seismic standards. We design steel or timber beams for homes in areas like Newmarket, ensuring safety and stability while creating open-plan layouts that suit Auckland’s modern lifestyles.

Can architectural drawings for retaining walls enhance my Auckland property’s value?

Yes, well-designed retaining walls, common in hilly Auckland suburbs like Orakei, boost both functionality and aesthetics. Sonder’s custom architectural design in NZ provides drawings that specify durable materials and drainage solutions, creating usable outdoor spaces while meeting Unitary Plan requirements, adding long-term value to your property.