1. Check your site
A free instant check reads your address against the two gates — the Building Act Schedule 1A exemption and the NES-DMRU planning rules. For certainty, a $149 Site Feasibility Report gives a certified desk assessment.
How it works
From address to finished granny flat, without a building consent — but not without process.
2. Choose your plan set
Buy a complete, LBP-designed plan set. It includes full working drawings, E2 flashing details, NZS 3604 good-ground foundations, bracing, specification and a compliance pack — everything a PIM and build needs.
3. Lodge your PIM
A PIM (Form 2AA) is required before work starts. The PIM-Ready Pack includes a completed PIM application pack and a site-specific siting plan.
4. Build and complete
Build within 2 years using licensed building practitioners. Lodge the required final plans, records of work and energy certificates after completion.
Consent-exempt still has a process
Consent-exempt means no building consent is required; it does not mean no council involvement. A PIM is still required before work starts, planning rules remain separate, and development contributions may apply.