Consent-Free Under NZ Legislation
70m² Builds.
Your Property, Your Dwelling.
Build a fully self-contained dwelling on your property — no building consent required. Rentals, family living, home offices, and more.
Six Ways to Use Your 70m² Build
Every property owner has different needs. Here are the most common reasons people build on the Kapiti Coast.
Rental Income
A self-contained dwelling on your existing section. High demand for quality rentals on the Kapiti Coast means consistent returns.
$350-$550/week indicative rental return
Airbnb / Short-Stay
Premium short-term rental targeting visitors to Kapiti. Higher returns with the right spec and location.
$150-$250/night indicative peak season
Family Living
Keep parents close but independent. A separate dwelling provides privacy and dignity for multi-generational families.
Accessibility options available
Home Office / Studio
Separate your work from home. Purpose-built workspace with soundproofing, connectivity, and professional finish.
Dedicated workspace, no commute
Guest Accommodation
A self-contained space for visitors that does not disrupt your household. Perfect for holiday guests or extended stays.
Complete privacy for guests
Teenage Retreat
Give older children their own space while keeping them on the property. Independent living with family proximity.
Semi-independent living
What the Legislation Means for You
New Zealand law allows property owners to build a dwelling of up to 70m² on their existing residential section without building consent. Here is what you need to know.
No Building Consent
Dwellings up to 70m² that meet Schedule 1 criteria are exempt from building consent, saving you time and money.
PIM Recommended
A Project Information Memorandum from your council is recommended to identify site constraints. Scott handles this for you.
LBP Mandatory
All restricted building work must be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner. Scott Bayler holds current LBP registration (BP106226).
Full Compliance
Your dwelling must meet Building Code requirements for structure, weathertightness, insulation, plumbing, and electrical.
Example Models
Three proven layouts optimised for different needs. All models can be customised to suit your site and intended use.
Example A: The One Bed
Open-plan living with kitchenette and bathroom. Ideal for offices, studios, or guest accommodation.
- Open-plan living area
- Kitchenette
- Full bathroom
- Built-in storage
- Covered entry
Example B: The Two-Bedroom
Separate bedroom with full kitchen and living area. The most popular choice for rental and family use.
- Separate bedroom
- Full kitchen
- Living area
- Bathroom and laundry
- Outdoor connection
Example C: L Shape Two Bed & Study Nook
One bedroom plus study, or two compact bedrooms. Maximum floor area under the legislation.
- Two bedrooms (or 1 + study)
- Full kitchen
- Open-plan living
- Bathroom and laundry
- Storage throughout
Cost Calculator
Get an indicative cost range for your 70m² dwelling project.
Is Your Property Suitable?
Not every property qualifies for a consent-free 70m² dwelling. Check the key requirements.
The Process: Assessment to Move-In
We manage every step from initial enquiry through to handing over the keys.
- 1
Initial Consultation
Week 1We visit your property, discuss your needs, assess site suitability, and talk through options and budget.
- 2
Design and Specification
Weeks 2-3Finalise your floor plan, finish selections, and detailed specifications. Fixed-price quote provided.
- 3
PIM Application (if required)
Weeks 3-7We submit the Project Information Memorandum to your council to identify any site-specific constraints.
- 4
Site Preparation
Weeks 6-8Foundations, services connections, and site access preparation.
- 5
Construction
Weeks 8-16Your dwelling is built with Scott on site every day. Regular progress updates throughout.
- 6
Completion and Handover
Week 16-18Final inspections, council notification, documentation package, and key handover.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really not need building consent?
Dwellings up to 70m² that meet certain criteria are exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act. Resource consent may or may not be required depending on your council's district plan rules — we can advise on this during the initial consultation. We also recommend obtaining a PIM from your council to identify any site-specific constraints.
What does LBP supervision mean?
A Licensed Building Practitioner must oversee all restricted building work. Scott Bayler holds current LBP registration and is personally on site throughout your build.
Can I live in the dwelling myself?
Yes. 70m² dwellings are fully self-contained and can be used as your primary residence or by family, tenants, or guests.
What is included in the price?
Our fixed-price quotes cover everything from foundations to fit-out: structure, weathertightness, insulation, plumbing, electrical, kitchen, bathroom, and floor coverings. Site preparation and services connections are quoted separately as they vary by property.
How long does a build take?
Typically 16-18 weeks from site preparation to handover, plus 3-7 weeks for PIM processing if required. Total timeline is usually 5-7 months from signing to move-in.
What if my property is not suitable?
We will tell you honestly at the initial consultation. Common issues include insufficient section size, access limitations, or zoning restrictions. No charge for the initial assessment.
Can I customise the standard models?
Absolutely. The standard models are starting points. We regularly modify layouts, finishes, and features to suit specific needs.
What documentation do I receive?
You receive the PIM application and council response (if applicable), record of work from the LBP, notification to the territorial authority, as-built drawings, warranty documentation, and a maintenance guide.
Do you handle the council process?
Yes. We manage the PIM application (if required), council liaison, and completion notification to the territorial authority. You sign the application and we do the rest.
What warranties are provided?
We provide a workmanship warranty and pass through all materials warranties from manufacturers. We also carry public liability insurance and contract works insurance for your protection.
Interested in a 70m² Build?
Start with a free property assessment. We will visit your site and let you know whether it is suitable, with no obligation.