Advocacy in a Minute: Government’s new “self-certification” changes aimed at reducing development delays

The Government has agreed on a new scheme allowing trusted builders to sign off their own work and will set a mandatory target to tackle building inspection wait times, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk has announced.
  • The self-certification scheme will be a voluntary, opt-in measure enabled by changes to the Building Act 2004 and the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006. 
  • There will be two self-certification pathways available under the scheme: 
    • An opt-in self-certification scheme for house builders carrying out work on an entire simple residential dwelling (including design and construction). 
    • An opt-in self-certification scheme for plumbers and drainlayers carrying out work on a simple residential dwelling. 
  • The definition of an eligible simple residential dwelling will be set down in regulation, following industry consultation. 
  • BCAs will still be required to provide a nominal consent for entire simple homes where trusted building professionals are self-certifying their work.

Read the full announcement.

Author | Sandamali Ambepitiya

Sandamali arrived at Property Council with a Bachelor of Arts and Law, and experience as an advisor with the Employers & Manufacturers Association.

Conscientious and detailed, Sandamali leads our advocacy in the South Island and Wellington regions. She is also leading our work on the reform of the resource management and building systems and sustainability / seismic strengthening.

An excellent listener, Sandamali is in her element when facilitating stakeholders and members to develop our advocacy positions.

sandamali@propertynz.co.nz

The latest

Government moves to cap council rates rises

A new Bill proposes capping annual rates rises at 2 to 4 per cent. Find out how it could affect your council, and what exemptions might apply. Councils could soon

On the Move | September 2026

Stay up to date with the latest appointments, promotions and career moves from across New Zealand’s property sector in this fortnight’s On the Move. Jessica Middleton joins Foley Douglas as

Share this article
LinkedIn
Twitter
Facebook