Services

Minor Dwelling

Build a Minor Dwelling or Sleepout in Auckland

If you are considering adding a minor dwelling (sometimes called a granny flat or sleepout) to your property, we can help you every step of the way. Whether it is for additional rental income, housing a family member or creating a private retreat, our team specialises in building efficient, high-quality standalone units that blend seamlessly with your existing home.

Exciting News About Easier Minor Dwelling Rules in New Zealand

Recent regulatory changes make building a minor residential unit much simpler for many homeowners.

Under the Building and Construction (Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Amendment Act 2025, you will soon be able to build a standalone dwelling up to 70 square metres without a building consent, provided it meets certain criteria.

The new rules require the dwelling to be single-storey, of simple design, and built or supervised by authorised professionals.

Homeowners will need to notify their local council both before construction begins and once it is completed via a Project Information Memorandum.

Changes to resource consent rules are also being introduced through a National Environmental Standard for granny flats and minor residential units, helping to remove zoning barriers in many residential and rural areas.

These reforms are expected to take effect in early 2026, making it quicker and more cost-effective for property owners to create a high-quality minor dwelling.

How We Can Help You Leverage the New Laws

Feasibility Check and Advice
We assess your property, help you understand the new rules and advise on whether your project can qualify for the consent free pathway or if you will need resource or building consent.

Design and Planning
We make sure your plans are efficient, code-compliant, and maximise space and functionality while staying within the 70-square-metre threshold. We can also go through your plans and design with you to make sure everything aligns with your vision and meets all requirements.

Liaison with Local Council
We handle all communication with Auckland Council to ensure your project aligns with local requirements.

Professional Construction
We’re licensed building practitioners, ensuring every structure meets the Building Code and the new legislation requirements.

Completion and Certification
Once construction is complete, we help with final inspections, provide you with record of work documentation and notify the council as required.

Who Is This Ideal For

  • Homeowners who want to add a self-contained rental unit.

  • Families looking for a sleepout or whare for a relative.

  • Landowners aiming to maximise land value without a full subdivision.

  • Investors who want a secondary dwelling without the full cost or delay of consents.

Get Started with a Quote

Ready to explore your options? Contact us for a free consultation and quote. We can help you understand how the new 70 square metre, low-consent rules could benefit you and design a minor dwelling that fits your property, goals, and budget.