Our Services
From January 2026, qualifying standalone granny flats up to 70m² may be built without a building consent provided all exemption conditions are met and the work fully complies with the New Zealand Building Code.
Exemption can simplify the process.
It does not remove compliance responsibilities.
We help you understand whether your property qualifies, what rules apply, and how to move forward correctly from the start.
Consent-Exempt Granny Flats (Up to 70m²)
What the Exemption Actually Means?
A qualifying granny flat must be:
✔ Standalone and single storey
✔ No more than 70m²
✔ Fully compliant with the NZ Building Code
✔ Designed and built by Licensed Building Professionals
✔ Notified to council before construction (via PIM process)
✔ Properly documented at completion
Council does not inspect exempt work.
Responsibility for compliance sits with the owner and professionals involved.
This is why proper design and documentation matter.
What Still Applies (Even Without Building Consent)
Even under exemption, your site must still comply with:
✔ Height-to-boundary controls
✔ Zoning and setback rules
✔ Site coverage limits
✔ Natural hazard considerations
✔ Services capacity (water, wastewater, stormwater)
✔ Fire separation and structural requirements
In some cases, resource consent may still be required depending on planning controls.
Every site is different. Assumptions are risky.
Our Approach
Step 1 - Short Right Fit Call
A short conversation to understand your project. We'll ask about your site, your plans, and your timeline. You'll leave knowing exactly what package suits you and what's involved. No obligation.
Step 2 - Concept Design & PIM
Before committing to full design:
✔ Zoning and planning overlay review
✔ Assessment of height and boundary controls
✔ Site coverage and access check
✔ Services review and constraints identification
✔ Preliminary layout aligned with exemption conditions
✔ Submit Project Information Memorandum (PIM)
✔ Identification of potential development contributions
Outcome:
You gain structured confirmation of what your site allows before investing further.
This stage protects you from costly redesign or compliance issues later.
Step 3 - Final Plans
Once feasibility is confirmed:
✔ Detailed architectural floor plans (efficient 70m² layouts)
✔ Elevations and site plan
✔ Coordination with engineers where required
✔ Integration of structural and service information
✔ Preparation of documentation required for exemption records
✔ Design aligned with NZ Building Code requirements
Outcome:
Handover clear, build-ready documentation prepared correctly from the start.
Who Is This For?
This service suits homeowners who:
✔ Want to add rental income
✔ Need space for extended family
✔ Are considering a new build
✔ Want clarity before committing to purchase or construction
✔ Prefer a structured, compliance aware approach
Site Feasibility Assessment (Ideal for Granny Flats or Relocatable homes)
Not sure what you can build on your site? Our site feasibility study gives you clear, honest guidance before you commit time or money. We review planning rules, site constraints, access, and layout options, and provide a basic site plan to show what’s realistically achievable so you can move forward with confidence.
Relocatable Home Building Consent Plans
Relocatable homes can be a smart and cost-effective way to build, but getting the paperwork right is key. We prepare clear, council ready building consent plans tailored to your site and local council requirements. From layout to compliance, we make sure your relocatable home is practical, well planned, and ready for a smooth consent process.
“We had Mo assist us with drawing our plans for our renovation at our place in Titirangi. From the start Mo was very professional and listened to our needs. He was great with communication, understood our needs and delivered exactly what we wanted. Cannot recommend Stratum Architecture highly enough - very impressed!”
– Mark and Kathryn