Tips for easier consent processing

Builders, designers and other people applying for  building consent authorities (BCAs) (your local council's building control department) now require better quality building consent applications when they are presented at the front counter for lodgement.

This is one of the changes arising from the Building Consent Authority Accreditation and Registration Scheme that is part of the reforms of the Building Act 2004. The more robust approach reflects the fact that good quality consent documentation with sufficient detail is fundamental to the smooth and more efficient running of the building consent process and helps achieve better quality buildings. It saves time, for both the council and the applicant, because if the initial application meets requirements the BCA does not have to stop the processing time clock to seek more information from the applicant.

Here are some tips to help the building consent process.

1. Talk

Talk to each other - designers, builders etc - before and during the consent and building process to ensure everyone knows what is required of them.
Talk to your BCA before applying - ie, have pre-lodgement meetings so you know what the BCA expects of you as a consent applicant, designer or builder.

2. Check for compliance

Make sure you are satisfied your consent application will comply with the Building Code before you apply. It is not the BCA's job to assume the role of designer or builder. Its job is to verify that the work will meet Code requirements.

3. Provide good quality information

Provide enough good-quality consent information up-front. This will enable everyone involved in the process - from concept through to Code compliance - to be clear about what the applicant wants and what the BCA is being asked to approve.

Good-quality documentation is clear, detailed and project-specific. It is no longer appropriate to submit one set of documents for all projects, with irrelevant sections of vast specifications and technical information or details crossed out. Consent drawings should be designed to recognised scales and well laid out. Similarly, specifications should be laid out clearly and should follow a logical sequence. Specifications and references to New Zealand or international Standards should be project-specific and relevant to the specific job.

4. Plan your inspections

Try to plan your inspection requirements in the same way that you plan for sub-contractors, concrete deliveries and building materials - ie, as far as possible in advance; ideally not a day or two before you want them. This will help BCAs plan their inspection programme and ensure you get your inspection when you need it. Remember to carefully read your approved building consent documents. They should detail inspections required by the BCA and any other conditions it requires.

More information on requirements for building consent documentation can be found in the Department's guidance document or phoning 0800 242 243 for a hard copy. Although written with simple residential projects in mind, much of its content and principles are relevant to any project.