Proposed rule change makes it easier to build a 70m² secondary dwelling -
here’s what you need to know
There’s exciting news for Kiwis looking to add a secondary dwelling to their property. Under a proposed amendment to the Building Act, standalone, self-contained dwellings up to 70 m² may soon be built without requiring building or resource consent, provided certain criteria are met.
What does this mean for you?
If you’ve been considering adding a:
Granny flat for extended family
Self-contained home for a young adult or elderly parent
Airbnb or short-term rental for extra income
Compact bach or getaway
Stand-alone downsizer home
…this change could make building a secondary dwelling faster, cheaper, and simpler by reducing time, complexity, and cost.
Why Elevate Homes is ready for the change
We’ve already developed a range of compact, premium dwellings that fit within the proposed 70m² exemption - so you’ll be ready to act as soon as the legislation takes effect.
Our Elevate 70 range offers:
1-bedroom or 2-bedroom layouts
Optional covered deck
All under 70m² total floor area
Architecturally designed, prefabricated, and transportable across the North Island
Premium finishes: full kitchen, designer bathroom (with laundry), generous storage, and seamless indoor–outdoor living
These features align perfectly with the simple, compliant design requirements in the proposed exemption framework.
When will the change happen?
The Building and Construction (Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Amendment Bill has passed its first reading and is expected to be enacted by late 2025, with the changes taking effect in early 2026.
Until then, all new builds still require full building consent if you start before the law is in force.
What will still be required?
Even with these streamlined rules, you’ll still need to:
Notify your council before starting and after finishing the build (via the PIM process) and pay any applicable development contributions.
Have all restricted work (plumbing, electrical, structural) done or supervised by licensed professionals, with the required documentation provided.
Ensure the home meets the NZ Building Code for safety, durability, moisture, and energy efficiency.
Follow all local planning rules such as site coverage, boundary setbacks, height limits, and hazard zone restrictions.
The bottom line
If you’re planning a 70 m² or smaller secondary dwelling in a residential or rural zone - and it meets the criteria (simple code-compliant design, built by licensed professionals, and you’ve informed council) - you could be eligible to build without building or resource consents as early as 2026.
Just keep in mind:
You’ll still need to comply with the New Zealand Building Code
Development contributions may apply
Local planning rules must still be followed.
How Elevate Homes makes it simple
At Elevate Homes, we’re ahead of the curve- designing and delivering premium, transportable secondary dwellings and fully versed in council and regional requirements across the North Island. We make the process easier, smoother, and stress-free so you can focus on bringing your beautiful new space to life.
So get ahead of the game – check out our Elevate 70 range now or give us a call to get the ball rolling.
