Thursday 16 October 2008

Nanny loosens builders-apron strings ever so slightly

It doesn't happen often, so let's praise it when it does.  Nanny just stepped back a few inches:  "New Building Act exemptions mean fewer projects require building consent." Don't get too excited however, it is only very few inches:

The types of building projects not requiring building consent have been increased due to new changes to Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004.

Effective from 16 October 2008, the exemptions are part of a range of government initiatives to streamline the building and consent process by removing work of a low risk or minor nature from the consenting process.

Examples of building projects which no longer require a building consent include:

  • Removal or alteration of a wall that is not a structural or bracing element.
  • Awnings, pergolas or a veranda over a deck (15 sq m maximum).
  • Installation or replacement of windows, exterior doors or roof windows, provided that structural elements are not modified.
  • Alteration of dwellings to improve access for persons with disabilities, including doorway modifications and access ramps, but excluding wet area accessible showers.
  • Internal shop or office fit out where the work does not modify, or require modifications to, any specified systems or means of escape from fire.
  • Alterations to existing plumbing in bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and toilets, including minor drainage alteration (e.g. shifting a gully trap) but excluding new connections to services. Any such alterations must be carried out by a registered plumber in accordance with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 1976.
  • Erecting tents and marquees of up to 100sq m where they are for private use and up to 50sq m where they are intended for public assembly.

Stick up a marquee and have a party to celebrate.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

it was tough decision

Sir Arthur Streeb-Greebling said...

"Examples of building projects which no longer require a building consent include:

Alterations to existing plumbing in bathrooms, kitchens, laundries and toilets, including minor drainage alteration"

Like?....showers?