With winter just around the corner, if you are thinking of updating your insulation or heating, don’t forget to get your building consent application in early so that you aren’t left waiting in the cold!

You can install underfloor or ceiling insulation, gas and electric heaters and heat pumps without a building consent. However, if you’re proposing to install insulation in an external wall, or an internal wall that is a fire separation wall, or install any kind of solid or liquid fuel heating appliance, you will need to apply for a building consent.

What you need to do:

Log onto the Simpli website and sign up at https://simpli.govt.nz/. Once you are signed up you must go to the consents section and start a new submission by selecting and completing a Form 2 – Solid Fuel Burner Application. Submit the form on the Simpli website. Once you have submitted the Form 2 it will be forwarded onto Tararua District Council for lodgement and processing.

One copy of the manufacturer’s specifications and your floor plan are required with your application. The plan needs to show the location of the fire and the smoke alarms (these must be interconnected smoke detectors and the plan needs to show them in each bedroom, hallway, living space and landing). You will be invoiced for your application once the consent is granted. Once payment is received, the consent will be issued.

Provide proof of ownership (e.g., a rates letter or Record of Title no more than 3 months old).

How much will it cost?

Check the Tararua District Council website for up to date fees and charges at: Building Fees & Charges | Tararua District Council