Get a consent when building a granny flat
Work is under way on changes to building consents for small standalone dwellings – or granny flats – but you still need a building consent if you’re planning one now.
If you’re planning to build a granny flat this year, you still need a building consent.
You may have heard about upcoming changes to make it easier to build small standalone dwellings – or granny flats – without a building consent, but the changes are not expected to be in force until early 2026.
If you start building a small standalone dwelling before the law changes you need to get a building consent.
If you don’t get a consent, you are breaking the law. It may also make it difficult to sell your home and get insurance.
If you are unsure whether your building work needs a building consent or not, check with your local council.
Understanding the building consent process(external link) — Building Performance
Work is under way on the changes and we’ll announce more details when they are ready.
Visit the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment's Building Performance website to learn more about the small standalone dwelling changes.
Changes to small standalone dwelling (granny flat) building consent rules(external link) — Building Performance