In this article, we delve into the various nuances of residential building regulations. We focus on the South Island, covering the insulation standards, specific rules we have dealt with for each region, and key points to consider.
The building consent process
Your local New Zealand council will grant building consent applications when they are confident your proposed work will meet the requirements of the Building Code.
Firstly, you are responsible for applying for building consent. You will need to provide evidence that the proposed building work will meet the performance requirements of the Building Code. Typically, as part of Genius Homes's full project management service, we will complete and manage the building consent paperwork on your behalf.
Once received, the council will process your building consent application within 20 working days. As needed, they may request more information.
South Island insulation requirements
The H1 Energy Efficiency standards were recently updated, with 6 New Zealand climate zones. Each of the zones has different minimum insulation requirements based on the average temperatures and weather patterns. These minimum standards apply to floors, walls, roofs, and windows/doors.
At Genius Homes, our prefab homes are all designed to meet/exceed the highest climate zone requirements keeping your home warm. The typical construction R-values for each component are as follows:
- Roof insulation is R6.6, at Genius Homes our r-value is R7.0
- Walls are typically R2.0, at Genius Homes our r-value is R2.8
- Floors are R3.0, at Genius Homes our r-value is R3.2
- Windows and doors are R0.5 (thermally broken, low-E, and filled with argon gas), and Genius Homes is on par with the standard.
Council requirements for South Island Regions
Below, we have highlighted the various location-specific requirements for each South Island region. These are in addition to compliance with the New Zealand Building Code and other council consents. Please note that this list is not exhaustive and you will need to speak directly with your council for a full list of requirements for your region.
Nelson and Tasman
In Nelson and Tasman, you will need a Geotech report. You should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Marlborough
In Marlborough, you will need a Geotech report. You should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Canterbury
All ten Canterbury councils require you to obtain a Geotech report and you should also refer to the relevant district plan and zone rules. At Genius Homes, our process includes requesting flood assessment certificates on all building sites in the region as well as an ECAN flood report for rural sites.
Coastal Christchurch
Coastal Christchurch is subject to sea spray requirements and flood floor level heights and also requires a Geotech report. You should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Kaikoura
Kaikoura is subject to sea spray requirements depending on proximity to the ocean and also requires a Geotech report. You should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Mt Cook/Mackenzie
Due to higher rates of snowfall and wind, projects in Mt Cook/Mackenzie require a Specific Engineer-Designed wind zone (SED) in addition to a standard Geotech report. You should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
West Coast
On the West Coast, you will need a Geotech report and you should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Queenstown
When building in the Queenstown area, you will need to use this soak pit spreadsheet calculator if stormwater discharges to the ground. You will also need a Geotech report and should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Central Otago
In Central Otago, you will need a Geotech report and you should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Southland
In Southland, you will also need a Geotech report and you should also refer to the council’s district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
For transportable dwellings, the Southland Council is currently requiring written confirmation from our clients regarding transportable dwellings. Alternatively, you may have to wait until a code of compliance is achieved for the factory build.
Dunedin
In Dunedin, you will need a Building Location Certificate and a Geotech report. You should also refer to the district plan and zone rules for any site-specific information.
Project Information Memorandum (PIM)
The best way to check that your project meets council requirements is by requesting a Project Information Memorandum (PIM). The primary purpose of a PIM is to provide valuable information and guidance about local government regulations and requirements. A Project Information Memorandum (PIM) typically includes:
Site-specific Information
- Zoning regulations
- Land use restrictions
Regulatory Requirements
- Local building codes
- Planning regulations
- Environmental regulations
- Any other legal or regulatory requirements that must be adhered to during the project's planning and construction phases
Utility Services
- Water requirements
- Sewage requirements
- Electricity requirements
- Gas requirements
- Any restrictions or limitations that may apply to these services
Environmental Considerations
- Flood zones
- Conservation areas
- Areas with specific ecological sensitivities
Transport and Access
- Road connections
- Traffic considerations
- Any required road or infrastructure improvements
Consents and Permits
- Building permits
- Resource consents
- Any other necessary approvals from local authorities
Other Relevant Information
- Historical considerations
- Archaeological sites
- Cultural heritage protections
When building a brand new house, always do your due diligence to make sure everything is considered. At Genius Homes, our experienced project management team can help with navigating the different regional requirements and do all the hard work on your behalf down to the building consents and PIM. For more information and tailored advice, reach out today or book a site consultation. We’d love to help you on your home-building journey.
