Guide to applying for a building consent (residential buildings) - Second Edition October 2010

Page created by Ann Mann
 
CONTINUE READING
Guide to applying for a building consent (residential buildings) - Second Edition October 2010
Guide to applying for a building consent (residential buildings)

                                                    Second Edition
                                                     October 2010
About this guide	                                                                                                                              1
		Introduc tion                                                                                                                                   2
 1.0 	The building consent proc ess	                                                                                                              3
 2.0 	Pl ans and specifications	                                                                                                                 10
 3.0 	Design summary                                                                                                                             13
 4.0 	Design summary check sheet                                                                                                                 16
 5.0 	Dr awings	                                                                                                                                 19
      5.1 Site plan                                                                                                                              20
      5.2 Location plan                                                                                                                          22
      5.3 Foundation plan                                                                                                                        24
      5.4 Roof framing plan                                                                                                                      26
      5.5 Floor plan                                                                                                                             28
      5.6 Exterior elevations                                                                                                                    30
      5.7 Sections                                                                                                                               32
      5.8 Construction details                                                                                                                   34
      5.9 Door/window schedule                                                                                                                   38
      5.10 Plumbing layout or schematic plan                                                                                                     40
      5.11 Electrical plan                                                                                                                       42
      5.12 Wet area details                                                                                                                      44
      5.13 Additional drawings                                                                                                                   46
 6.0 	Rel ated building consent application mat ters	                                                                                            47
 7.0 	Rel ated Building Act mat ters	                                                                                                            52
 8.0 	Project pl anning	                                                                                                                         55
 9.0    Glossary of terms	                                                                                                                       57

This guide was prepared by the Department of Building and Housing (the Department) as guidance information in accordance with section 175
of the Building Act 2004. It is not a substitute for professional or legal advice, and should not be relied on as establishing compliance with
the New Zealand Building Code. It is not an Acceptable Solution under the Building Act, and may be updated from time to time.
Visit www.dbh.govt.nz for the latest version.
References to products, brands or trade names are provided as examples only. The Department does not endorse or confirm compliance
of these products with the New Zealand Building Code.
Cover illustration by Geoff Walker Architecture Ltd, Blenheim.
About this guide

AIM OF THE GUIDE                                           Uncertainty for owners and their contractors can                     The information in this guide may also be useful
                                                           be frustrating, inefficient and costly. This guide                   to people in the construction sector (eg, product
Getting the planning, design and documentation right
                                                           therefore aims to bring more consistency and                         manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and subcontractors)
is the first step in ensuring a building is built right,
                                                           standardisation to the sector, and set minimum                       and providers of specialist technical services
first time. To build well and achieve a good outcome,
                                                           expectations for owners and building consent                         (eg, building consultants, building surveyors,
all parts of the building process need to work – from
                                                           authorities on the form, content and quality of                      and property managers).
the initial design and consent approval process,
                                                           building consent documentation.
through to construction, inspection, final sign-off                                                                             It is also expected that the information provided
and ongoing maintenance of the finished building.          This guide covers building consent applications                      will prove beneficial to building consent authorities
                                                           for residential buildings, such as new dwellings.                    by providing them with a guide for an acceptable
The building consent is the foundation document for
                                                           However, the principles can be applied to all                        minimum standard of consent application
any significant building project. The building consent
                                                           building consent applications, including those for                   documentation.
allows the owner, or owner’s agent, to carry out
                                                           commercial projects.
building work in accordance with the plans and                                                                                  Because readers are expected to have a reasonable
specifications approved by the building consent                                                                                 level of knowledge of the Building Code, construction
authority. The building consent also provides formal       WHO SHOULD READ THIS GUIDE?                                          processes and building control systems, this guide is
recognition that the plans and specifications meet                                                                              not intended for homeowner (DIY) consent applicants.
                                                           If you are a building practitioner (designer, builder,
the requirements of the New Zealand Building Code.
                                                           developer, engineer, architect) and you are planning
Building work carried out in accordance with the
                                                           a building consent application for a residential
approved plans and specifications will meet
                                                           building, such as a new dwelling, or completing an
minimum performance standards. You and your
                                                           application on behalf of the owner, this guide is for you.
designer may, of course, aim for higher standards.
                                                           This guide will help consent applicants prepare
The basic requirements for a building consent and
                                                           plans, specifications and documentation for a
for meeting the performance standards under the
                                                           building consent application by explaining the
Building Code are generally the same around New
                                                           minimum information requirements.
Zealand. However, different building consent
authorities may process applications differently.

                                                                                                              GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    1
Introduction

Section 45 of the Building Act 2004 (the Building                                                    Although these requirements are not related to         Good planning and proper preparation of consent
Act) sets out in broad terms how to apply for a                                                      the Building Code or Building Act, it is useful        documentation provides a solid foundation for
building consent, but does not detail all the                                                        to ask the BCA about any specific requirements they    everyone involved in the building process to make
information needed to support an application.                                                        have before lodging a building consent application.    well-informed, efficient and cost-effective decisions.
                                                                                                                                                            A complete and accurate consent application should
This guide recommends the appropriate form and                                                       This guide focuses on information a building consent
                                                                                                                                                            help speed up consent processing and approval
minimum content (including its quality) for a building                                               authority needs to assess compliance with the
                                                                                                                                                            time. It should also provide an accurate historical
consent application. This includes the drawings,                                                     Building Code. However, information on tendering,
                                                                                                                                                            record that can be used later when further building
specifications and other documents (eg, engineering                                                  contractual issues, project management and
                                                                                                                                                            work, alteration, repair or maintenance is needed,
calculations and design reports). The guide discusses                                                construction processes, and on those parts of
                                                                                                                                                            or the property is sold to a new owner.
associated issues, such as the role of manufacturers’                                                a building project not relating directly to Building
technical data, alternative design, engineering and                                                  Code compliance, can be included as well. Having       Complete, accurate and good quality consent
design calculations, product appraisals, and other                                                   a single set of documents suitable both for consent    documentation helps everyone involved in a building
technical statements, warranties or opinions.                                                        and for construction allows everyone to work off       project play their part in ensuring the work is carried
                                                                                                     a ‘buildable design’ set of documentation.             out and built right, first time. This can help avoid
Some building consent authorities have specific
                                                                                                                                                            costly time delays and rework.
requirements for building consent documentation,                                                     The documentation even for a simple new building
including:                                                                                           project passes through many hands, including           It is important to understand that building consent
                                                                                                     designers, builders, plumbers, drainlayers, home-      authorities verify compliance with the Building
• the specific size, form and scale of drawings
                                                                                                     owners or developers and, within the building          Code. They do not design or correct insufficient
  and their elements
                                                                                                     consent authority, their administration, consent       consent documentation. They do not ensure quality
• requirements for certain line types or
                                                                                                     processing, inspection, engineering and town           and aesthetic requirements are met, unless
  thicknesses, and/or fonts.
                                                                                                     planning staff.                                        compliance with the Building Code is affected.
Often these requirements arise from the building
consent authority’s process for storing and retrieving
building consent information (eg, digital storage).

2   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
1.0 The building consent process

A building project starts during the planning and       The project information memorandum (PIM) is a                            A PIM also provides information about legislative
design stage, not on site after a building consent      very useful tool for this, particularly if obtained early                or regulatory requirements, including other
has been issued and construction begins. It ends        in the design phase of a significant project such as                     authorisations that could be relevant to the proposed
when the building work is completed and the             a new residential dwelling, as it can help you identify                  building work such as a resource consent required
building consent authority issues a code                other compliance requirements, and so avoid costly                       under the Resource Management Act 1991, or
compliance certificate (CCC).                           delays during the consent process.                                       whether the territorial authority needs to notify the
                                                                                                                                 New Zealand Historic Places Trust. It is important
                                                                                                                                 to know about and plan for these as early as
1.1 PRE-LODGEMENT OF BUILDING                           1.2 PROJECT INFORMATION MEMORANDUM
                                                                                                                                 possible in the design process.
CONSENT APPLICATION                                     (PIM)
                                                                                                                                 Understanding potential site issues and designing
Early consultation with the building consent            An owner, or their agent on their behalf, may apply
                                                                                                                                 to accommodate them can also help speed up the
authority helps reduce misunderstandings at the         for a PIM if they are considering carrying out
                                                                                                                                 building consent process. The building consent
time of consent application and processing, and         building work.
                                                                                                                                 review process is then likely to face fewer
helps ensure the application is as complete as
                                                        A territorial authority (your local city or district                     requirements for further information, and so can
possible prior to lodgement. Specific documentation
                                                        council) issues a PIM.                                                   be processed more quickly and cost effectively.
requirements of the building consent authority can
be taken into account at the planning stage.            A PIM provides information about the land on which                       As at 31 January 2010, you can choose whether
                                                        you plan to carry out building work and any other                        or not to apply for a PIM when considering carrying
Compliance with other requirements (eg, council
                                                        land likely to affect or be affected by the building                     out building work that requires a building consent.
bylaws or district planning rules) may be critical to
                                                        work. This information might include special features
the design of the project, even though not part of                                                                               For significant projects, such as a new residential
                                                        such as natural hazards (eg, erosion, subsidence,
the building consent process. Therefore, you should                                                                              dwelling, it is highly recommended to obtain a PIM
                                                        falling debris, inundation or slippage), corrosion
consider these requirements early in your project                                                                                early on in the design phase and well in advance
                                                        issues, high wind zones, or the likely presence of
management and preliminary design work.                                                                                          of applying for a building consent.
                                                        hazardous contaminants.

                                                                                                               GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    3
Pim content                                                                                          PIM application                                            Your PIM application should include enough
                                                                                                                                                                information to help the territorial authority determine
Section 35 of the Building Act provides for the content                                              The territorial authority provides the application form
                                                                                                                                                                if there are any associated planning issues under
of a PIM, which will include information about:                                                      (you should be able to download one from your local
                                                                                                                                                                the Resource Management Act. For example,
                                                                                                     council’s website). Information required includes
• any heritage status of the building                                                                                                                           you should include information such as land contours
                                                                                                     applicant details, the location of the building project,
• whether the territorial authority considers that                                                                                                              and drawings showing the sunlight access plane
                                                                                                     and a description of the building project outlining:
  notification to the New Zealand Historic Places                                                                                                               height in relation to boundary lines.
  Trust is likely to be required                                                                     •     any change of building use
                                                                                                                                                                You should include preliminary design plans with
• any special feature of the land                                                                    •     the intended life of the building
                                                                                                                                                                the PIM application, but do not need to include
• relevant information that another statutory                                                        •     previous consents
                                                                                                                                                                the comprehensive, technically detailed drawings
  authority has notified to the territorial authority in                                             •     the estimated value of building work
                                                                                                                                                                and specifications required for building consent
  terms of any other Act                                                                             •     matters involved in the proposed project,
                                                                                                                                                                applications. Normally, a good site plan, floor plan
• details of stormwater or wastewater utility                                                              for example:
                                                                                                                                                                and elevation drawings are sufficient. You must pay
  systems/services that relate to the proposed
                                                                                                           – subdivision                                        the fees set by the territorial authority when you
  building work
                                                                                                           – land contour alteration                            apply for the PIM.
• details of any authorisations required by the
                                                                                                           – new/altered public utility connections
  territorial authority or on behalf of a network                                                                                                               The territorial authority must issue the PIM within
                                                                                                           – changes to building locations or dimensions
  utility operator, including any conditions                                                                                                                    20 working days of receiving your application.
                                                                                                           – changes to vehicle access
• whether the territorial authority considers a fire                                                                                                            However, they can suspend this period if they
                                                                                                           – work over or adjacent to roads or public places
  evacuation scheme is required                                                                                                                                 require further information from you about any
                                                                                                           – disposal of stormwater or wastewater
• whether section 75 of the Building Act applies                                                                                                                authorisations or requirements (eg, intended use,
                                                                                                           – building work over drains or sewers, or near
  (construction of a building on two or more                                                                                                                    location and dimensions, vehicle access and roading,
                                                                                                             wells or water mains
  allotments).                                                                                                                                                  stormwater and wastewater disposal, proximity to
                                                                                                           – any other matters that may require territorial
                                                                                                                                                                drains, or proposed connections to public utilities).
                                                                                                             authority authorisation.
                                                                                                                                                                For more information on PIMs, visit www.dbh.govt.
                                                                                                                                                                nz/project-information-memoranda

4   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
1.3 Lodging a building consent                          PIM application.                                                              1.4 PROCESSING A BUILDING CONSENT
application                                                                                                                           APPLICATION
                                                        The description of the proposed work should be
When applying for a building consent, you will          clear and precise. For example:                                               The building consent authority checks that the
need to complete an application form. The building                                                                                    documents you submit show the building work
                                                        • ‘Addition of lounge, kitchen alterations and new
consent authority will provide you with one. You                                                                                      would comply with the Building Code, if properly
                                                          conservatory’ rather than ‘Additions and
might also be able to download one from their                                                                                         completed in accordance with the plans and
                                                          alterations’
website. Your building consent application must:                                                                                      specifications included. See section 49(1) of the
                                                        • ‘New 100 m2 dwelling with two-car garaging,
                                                                                                                                      Building Act.
• be in the prescribed form                               associated earthworks, retaining walls and
• include plans and specifications                        swimming pool’, rather than ‘New dwelling.’                                 You will help the assessment process greatly if
• include any other information the building                                                                                          you ensure your building consent documentation:
  consent authority reasonably requires
                                                          Rules covering restricted building work are expected                        • includes a clear summary or report, such as a
• include the applicable building consent                 to start in March 2012.                                                       design summary (see section 3.0) explaining
  lodgement fee.                                          A building consent application for restricted building                        how compliance with each relevant clause of
                                                          work will need to include the names of the licensed
Information required on the application form includes     building practitioners carrying out or supervising that
                                                                                                                                        the Building Code will be achieved, including
a brief description of how your project will comply       work. See section 45(1)(e) of the Building Act and 7.6                        any waiver or modification sought
with the Building Code. Including a design summary        of this document. Also refer to www.dbh.govt.nz/lbp                         • differentiates between items relating to Building
will help explain your choice of a particular means       As part of good practice, applicants are encouraged                           Code requirements and those relating to
                                                          to start providing details of practitioners involved in
of compliance. See section 3.0 of this document           the project now.                                                              contractual matters (eg, conditions of contract,
for more information.                                                                                                                   tender documents, dispute resolution)
                                                                                                                                      • includes a schedule or schedules of the
You can find much of the property information
                                                                                                                                        materials, products and systems (and their
you need from a rates demand, lease agreement,
                                                                                                                                        maintenance requirements) to be used in
the certificate of title held by Land Information
                                                                                                                                        constructing the building
New Zealand, or from local council property
                                                                                                                                      • provides the details (including licence numbers)
archives. Charges may apply if you seek information
                                                                                                                                        of which practitioners have been engaged to
from local council records separately or in your
                                                                                                                                        carry out building work.

                                                                                                                    GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    5
The processing of the building consent may                                                           1.6 GRANT OR REFUSAL OF BUILDING                        1.8 AMENDMENTS TO BUILDING CONSENTS
be suspended if the building consent authority                                                       CONSENT
                                                                                                                                                             If you wish to formally amend an approved building
requires clarification or further additional information.
                                                                                                     Once the building consent authority is satisfied that   consent, which must be done when considering
See section 1.5 below.
                                                                                                     Building Code compliance is verified, and you have      significant changes to the work previously
If you change your design during the processing                                                      paid all associated fees and levies, the building       approved, your application must be made in the
stage, you must inform the building consent authority                                                consent authority must grant the building consent.      prescribed form provided by your building consent
of the proposed changes. This will allow them                                                                                                                authority, and should include details of what was
                                                                                                     The building consent authority may refuse or decline
to assess Building Code compliance, and update                                                                                                               originally approved, and how it will change.
                                                                                                     to approve your application if the consent
the consent file and council records. For more                                                                                                               Your application must also demonstrate that the
                                                                                                     documentation does not adequately demonstrate
information refer to section 1.8.                                                                                                                            new proposal complies with the Building Code
                                                                                                     compliance with the Building Code. The building
                                                                                                                                                             and will not affect the Building Code compliance
                                                                                                     consent authority has 20 working days in which to
                                                                                                                                                             of other work.
1.5 REQUESTING FURTHER INFORMATION                                                                   refuse or approve a building consent application.
                                                                                                                                                             All amendments to a building project that relate to
The building consent authority may request
                                                                                                                                                             the Building Code must be notified to the building
clarification or seek further information about your                                                 1.7 ISSUING A BUILDING CONSENT
                                                                                                                                                             consent authority so they can approve and record
consent application within 20 working days from the
                                                                                                     The building consent is issued in the prescribed        them. Your application for amendments must be
date they receive the application. The 20 working
                                                                                                     form and may have the following attachments:            made and approved before the change takes place.
day period will then be suspended until they receive
this information, in full.                                                                           • a PIM (if applied for)                                Note: Building consent authorities have 20 working
                                                                                                     • a development contribution notice issued              days in which to refuse or approve formal amendments
                                                                                                       by a territorial authority under section 36           to building consents.
                                                                                                       of the Building Act (if any)
                                                                                                     • a certificate providing information on resource
                                                                                                       consent requirements (if any).

6   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
Minor variations to building consents                   Note: To avoid doubt, a minor variation does not                   1.9 INSPECTION OF CONSENTED
                                                        include any building work in respect of which                      BUILDING WORK
A minor variation is a minor modification, addition
                                                        compliance with the Building Code is not required
or change to consented building work that does not                                                                         The approved building consent will inform you of
                                                        by the Building Act. For example, changing water
deviate significantly from the approved plans and                                                                          any inspections the building consent authority needs
                                                        taps from chrome to gold plated is not considered
specifications to which the building consent relates.                                                                      to undertake during construction, based on their
                                                        a minor variation as the tap finish does not need
                                                                                                                           evaluation of the plans, specifications and other
Section 45A of the Building Act enables a building      to comply with the Building Code. These types
                                                                                                                           information. These may include inspections by your
consent authority to grant a minor variation prior to   of changes can just happen during construction
                                                                                                                           nominated engineer. Inspections allow the building
or during construction without having to go through     as of right. See section 9.0 Glossary of terms for
                                                                                                                           consent authority to be satisfied on reasonable
the formal process of issuing an amendment to the       more information.
                                                                                                                           grounds that the building work complies with the
building consent. However, the building consent
                                                        If the building consent authority does not record                  building consent and Building Code. Building
authority must record the granting of the minor
                                                        or approve the changes, they could issue a notice                  consent authorities do not verify the quality of the
variation in writing.
                                                        to fix for the amendment, and may also refuse to issue             building work beyond checking it complies with the
Minor variations only apply to issued building          the CCC upon completion of the work because they                   Building Code. Issues such as aesthetics and quality
consents, where the code compliance certificate         cannot establish compliance with the building consent.             of workmanship fall outside the building consent
(CCC) has not been issued. In addition, minor                                                                              authority’s jurisdiction.
                                                        Defining a change on site during construction as
variations must neither adversely affect compliance
                                                        a minor variation is at the building consent authority’s           Building consent authority inspection requirements
with the Building Code nor the granting of a CCC.
                                                        discretion. Building consent authorities determine                 will vary with the size and complexity of each project.
                                                        what are minor variations and what are formal
                                                        amendments to the consent. Practitioners are
                                                        encouraged to engage early and have a conversation
                                                        with building consent authority staff as soon as
                                                        possible to clarify these issues as they arise.

                                                                                                         GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    7
Common inspections by building consent authorities                                                   Make sure you understand what inspections are            Note: Building consent authorities may refuse
for residential dwellings can include:                                                               needed and when. Talk with the building consent          to undertake an inspection if a copy of the approved
                                                                                                     authority to discuss the sequence of inspections.        building consent documentation is not on site
• pre-pour (before concrete is poured, for example,
                                                                                                     Missed inspections may prevent the building consent      during the inspection. These should always be
  for piles, footings, slabs, in situ walls or
                                                                                                     authority from being able to establish compliance        on site anyway to be used as the ‘building plans’
  blockwork infill)
                                                                                                     with the building consent, and therefore prevent         by practitioners.
• tanking/waterproofing (before back-filling
                                                                                                     them from issuing the CCC. This can have significant
  retaining walls, covering membranes on decks or
                                                                                                     consequences for the owner and contractors.
  laying tiles in wet areas such as showers)
• pre-clad (before wrapping the building in building                                                 You must request inspections once the building
  paper or building wrap and installing the cladding)                                                work specified in an inspection list is ready.
• post-clad (before applying coatings to fibre
                                                                                                     Provide information about the type of inspection
  cement or polystyrene systems, possibly
                                                                                                     required, a contact name, phone number, building
  including inspections during plastering)
                                                                                                     consent number, and a clear project address. If the
• pre-line (with insulation installed but before
                                                                                                     property is isolated or hard to find, give directions.
  installing internal linings. This inspection may
  include checking the plumbing installation under                                                   When booking an inspection, try to give the building
  pressure test)                                                                                     consent authority as much notice as possible.
• drainage (before filling in trenches and covering                                                  Many building consent authorities can take
  the in-ground pipework). Pipework should be                                                        inspection bookings for the next day.
  under test for this inspection. Drainage testing                                                   When on site, a building inspector will need copies
  can include smoke, air or water testing                                                            of the approved building consent documentation and
• final inspection for plumbing, building and                                                        other approvals and relevant information. Ensure the
  drainage work (once the work described in the                                                      site is clean, tidy and safe, and that someone with
  building consent is complete).                                                                     adequate knowledge of the project is on site to
                                                                                                     answer any questions. This is usually the relevant
                                                                                                     contractor who is undertaking the building work.

8   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
1.10 CODE COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATE (CCC)                 Even if the owner has not applied for a CCC,
                                                       the building consent authority must decide whether
An application for a CCC must be complete, precise
                                                       to issue a CCC within two years of granting building
and an accurate record of what was actually built
                                                       consent or any further period agreed between the
on the site. A building consent authority will
                                                       owner and the building consent authority. If the
normally require:
                                                       building consent authority is not satisfied that
• energy work certificates for any electrical          compliance with the consented documents has
  or gas work carried out                              been achieved, they must refuse to issue the CCC.
• an as-built services plan (eg, plumbing and
                                                       The BCA must provide the reason for the refusal
  drainage)
                                                       to the owner in writing. However, we recommend
• roof truss installation certificate and plan
                                                       that building consent authorities give applicants the
• other installation certificates (eg, cladding,
                                                       opportunity to resolve any non-compliance issues
  waterproofing, tanking)
                                                       first. The building consent authority’s refusal to issue
• producer statements (eg, from a Chartered
                                                       a CCC does not prevent an applicant from applying
  Professional Engineer for some specific
                                                       for one at a later stage after addressing issues
  design or construction elements).
                                                       of non-compliance.
The owner must apply for a CCC as soon as
practicable after the building work described in the
                                                         Sale by a residential property developer
building consent, with any subsequent approved
                                                         Under section 364 of the Building Act, residential property
amendments, has been completed. See section 92           developers (anyone building, or arranging to have built,
of the Building Act.                                     a household unit for the purpose of selling it) must get a
                                                         CCC before completing the sale, or allowing a purchaser
The building consent authority must issue a CCC          to take possession of the household unit. An exception
                                                         applies when the property developer and buyer sign Form
when it is satisfied that the building work complies
                                                         1 of the Building (Forms) Regulations 2004 (Agreement
with the approved building consent. They have            between residential property developer and purchaser).
20 working days from receipt of the application
to do this.

                                                                                                               GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    9
2.0 Plans and specifications

2.1 INTRODUCTION                                                                                    References to Standards and Compliance Documents
                                                                                                    should be specific. Some Standards are cited (in       Compliance Documents and Acceptable Solutions
Plans and specifications show how you intend to
                                                                                                    whole or in part) in the Acceptable Solutions, while   The Building Code is performance-based, and so requires
construct, alter, demolish or remove a building.                                                                                                           a certain level of performance to be achieved in buildings.
                                                                                                    other Standards offer advice only. Some Standards
Most building consent authorities provide guidance                                                  contain several options.                               Unlike prescriptive bylaws that existed before the Building
                                                                                                                                                           Act 1991, the Building Code allows more than one way
on any additional documentation they require with                                                                                                          to achieve performance. The Acceptable Solutions in the
                                                                                                    References to other industry guides, such as
a building consent application (eg, check sheets).                                                                                                         Compliance Documents show you one way of complying
                                                                                                    BRANZ publications, should also be specific.           with the Building Code. A building consent authority must
The Building Act provides for ‘other documents’,                                                                                                           accept plans that are based on a Compliance Document
                                                                                                    References need to:                                    as demonstrating compliance with the clause(s) of the
along with plans and specifications. These include:
                                                                                                                                                           Building Code to which that Compliance Document relates.
                                                                                                    • uniquely identify documents with titles and dates
• design calculations (eg, for some specifically                                                                                                           Compliance Documents automatically comply with
                                                                                                    • be specific about the paragraphs/clauses/
  engineered design element)                                                                                                                               the Building Code. Designers can provide an alternative
                                                                                                      sections to be followed.                             solution, as long as they demonstrate to the BCA that
• manufacturers’ data                                                                                                                                      the proposal will comply with the Building Code.
• technical opinions or appraisals                                                                  Note: The Government is looking to change the term
                                                                                                                                                           For more information, visit www.dbh.govt.nz/blc-
• codes of practice.                                                                                ‘Compliance Documents’ as part of the Review of        compliance-documents and read the following
                                                                                                    the Building Act 2004. The proposed new terms are      Department guidance on alternative solutions at: www.
See section 6.0 for more information.                                                                                                                      dbh.govt.nz/UserFiles/File/Publications/Building/
                                                                                                    ‘Acceptable Solutions’ and ‘Verification Methods’.     Guidance-information/pdf/alternative-solutions.pdf

2.2 BUILDING CONSENT INFORMATION
Information in the plans and specifications should be
project-specific.
General phrases, such as ‘refer to manufacturer’s
specification and/or requirements’ or ‘installed in
accordance with best trade practice’ are insufficient.
Manufacturers’ specifications can change, and views
on ‘best trade practice’ vary between practitioners.

10   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
2.3 DRAWINGS                                                 2.5 DIMENSIONS                                                    2.7 SPECIFICATION CONTENT
All drawings should contain a drawing number and             AS/NZS 1100.301 sets out conventions for dimensions               Keep tender, contract and project management
title, the designer’s and owner’s name and the job           on drawings. Where a finished dimension is critical               matters separate from technical matters, and from
address, and be dated for version control. Drawing           for compliance or construction, identify it clearly in            the proposed product and material selections. You
conventions (line types and widths, lettering type           the relevant drawing or specification. Timber size                can describe product and material selections in each
and size, symbols for building features and elements,        should be identified by its actual finished size.                 work section, grouped together in a single schedule,
designation of spaces, representation of materials                                                                             or list them on the drawings. A mix of trade-based,
and cross-referencing conventions) should generally                                                                            material-based, process-based and element-based
                                                             2.6 SPECIFICATION STRUCTURE
conform to AS/NZS 1100 Technical Drawing.                                                                                      sections or chapters is acceptable.
Hand-drawn or CAD (computer-aided design)                    A good project-specific specification has a logical
                                                                                                                               Specifications must be project-specific and
drawings are acceptable.                                     structure and navigation. The default standard
                                                                                                                               not include unrelated generic information.
                                                             classification system for New Zealand is Coordinated
Drawing sizes vary, usually ranging from A0 to A4.                                                                             Generic specifications with irrelevant information
                                                             Building Information (CBI), recognised by the four-
The size of drawing sheets should be consistent                                                                                will prove frustrating for building consent authorities
                                                             digit numbers used to classify each work section
within a single set of project drawings. Sometimes                                                                             and practitioners and can cause delays to consent
                                                             (ie, chapter) of the specification. There should be
drawings or diagrams of components and construction                                                                            processing.
                                                             ‘Preliminaries’ and ‘General’ sections, followed
details are provided in A4 and bound in with specification
                                                             by a series of technical work sections. Each work                 Specifications have typically been based on proprietary
data (eg, a specific engineering construction detail).
                                                             section or chapter should be laid out in a consistent             model documents, or assembled by individual
                                                             pattern (such as ‘General’, ‘Products’, ‘Execution’,              designers in a modified trade-based format.
2.4 DRAWING RANGE                                            ‘Selections’), and a consistent clause numbering                  Specification sections have a long history of subdivision
                                                             system should be used.                                            by trade (traditional and influenced by NZS 4202:
The size and complexity of the project determines
                                                                                                                               1995 Standard Method of Measurement of Building
the detail needed, and extent of associated
                                                                                                                               Works or work sections (CBI based)).
structural and building services-related documents.
See section 6.0 for information on the form and
content of drawings.

                                                                                                           GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    11
2.8 SPECIFICATIONS AND DRAWINGS
                                                                                                         Electronic document lodging
Your specification should complement the drawings,
                                                                                                         Many designers produce, deliver, store and retrieve
and not contain erroneous information or contradict                                                      documents electronically. Some BCAs can also receive,
itself or associated documents. Information on drawings                                                  process and store documents electronically. If you have
                                                                                                         suitable technology, you should ask the BCA if your
need not be repeated in the specification and vice                                                       application can be lodged electronically. This can reduce
versa. Repeating information can lead to contradiction                                                   the cost and inconvenience of producing and exchanging
                                                                                                         hard copy information, and prevent problems with accessing
and confusion, but may be useful for key points.
                                                                                                         and interpreting hard copy or scanned documents. Using
                                                                                                         electronic material only will also help reduce the impact on
You can decide how information is presented and
                                                                                                         the environment by cutting down on the amount of paper
where it is located, but building consent authorities                                                    being produced.
are entitled to ask for reasonable information in
relation to a building consent.
Consider whether information, for example project
selections (eg, sanitary fittings or door hardware),
is best placed on the drawings alongside details
of cabinetwork, kitchen or bathroom fixtures,
or in the specifications.
You can also include drawings in a specification,
such as standard details of a catch pit, or gully trap,
a series of standard reinforcing details, or items for
off-site fabrication.
Including the specification data on the drawings
will help the BCA and contractors on minor projects.
Wherever you provide specifications and drawings
in the documentation, they should be clear, correct
and complete.

12   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
3.0 Design summary

During the design process for any building project,     • provide a useful checklist for the building consent                    3.1 COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING CODE
designers make decisions on how compliance with           authority to consider Building Code compliance                         CLAUSES
the Building Code will be achieved. A design summary      after the project is complete
                                                                                                                                 Make sure all relevant clauses of the Building Code
is a tabulated list of how you propose to comply        • help reduce the consent processing time and
                                                                                                                                 are correctly identified and considered during the
with each of the relevant Building Code clauses.          avoid costly delays.
                                                                                                                                 design process. The clauses need to be identified
Design summaries are extremely helpful in explaining
                                                        How extensive the plans, specifications and related                      on the building consent application form. If you use
to the building consent authority the particular
                                                        information are depends on the complexity and size                       a design summary, which you are encouraged to do,
choices that were made to achieve compliance
                                                        of the project, and how closely the design conforms                      you could reference the relevant clauses of the
and why. A design summary, while not mandatory,
                                                        with Acceptable Solutions or Verification Methods                        Building Code.
has several benefits and is becoming industry
                                                        under the Building Code.
best practice.                                                                                                                   The relevant Building Code clauses for residential
                                                        See section 4.0 for an example of a completed                            buildings are described below. However, always
A design summary can:
                                                        design summary.                                                          consult the Building Code to check that the relevant
• help the designer (during the design phase) and                                                                                performance criteria have been met.
  the building consent authority (during the building     How much information is needed?                                        See www.dbh.govt.nz/bcr-about-the-building-code
  consent processing phase) by providing a
                                                          The purpose of building consent documentation is to                    for more information.
  checklist on how compliance with the Building           demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the building consent
  Code is achieved                                        authority, that all relevant performance requirements of
                                                          the Building Code are met. In some cases, you will need
• confirm which parts of the project are compliance-      to describe how Building Code compliance is achieved for
  related (or only construction- or contract-related)     individual building elements where the element must
                                                          comply with a variety of Building Code clauses (eg, a
• provide references to location of design
                                                          boundary wall that is fire-rated, provides bracing, has
  documentation and details                               sound-control properties and is located in a wet area).
• provide a checklist during construction, clarifying
  which changes will require a variation,
  amendment or a new building consent

                                                                                                             GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    13
BUILDING CODE CLAUSES                                                                               E3 Internal Moisture – confirming that surfaces         G1 Personal Hygiene – providing sufficient sanitary
                                                                                                    in wet areas are durable enough, easily cleaned         fixtures (toilets, showers and basins) for cleanliness.
B1 Structure – demonstrating how the building
                                                                                                    and designed to resist moisture, and that ventilation
withstands likely loads, including wind, earthquake,                                                                                                        G2 Laundering – providing sufficient laundry facilities.
                                                                                                    and the space temperature are sufficient to avoid
live and dead loads (people and building contents).                                                                                                         G3 Food Preparation and Prevention of
                                                                                                    the excessive build-up of moisture.
B2 Durability – confirming the use of materials                                                                                                             Contamination – providing sufficient safe and
                                                                                                    F1 Hazardous Agents on Site – identifying
that will remain functional for the minimum periods                                                                                                         hygienic facilities for food storage and preparation.
                                                                                                    and neutralising any hazardous agents or other
specified (five, 15 or 50 years).                                                                                                                           G4 Ventilation – confirming required natural or
                                                                                                    contamination of the building site.
C1–C4 Fire Safety – addressing outbreak of fire,                                                                                                            forced ventilation to all occupied spaces.
                                                                                                    F2 Hazardous Building Materials – confirming
demonstrating means of escape and boundary                                                                                                                  G7 Natural Light – confirming that sufficient natural
                                                                                                    the appropriate selection of glass and glazing
separations.                                                                                                                                                light is provided to occupied spaces and providing
                                                                                                    methods to ensure the safety of building users.
D1 Access Routes – the safety of entry/exit to the                                                  F2 also considers building materials that give off      appropriate visual awareness for the occupants.
building and the safety of any internal or external                                                 noxious fumes.                                          G9 Electricity – confirming the safe distribution
stairs and slip resistance.                                                                                                                                 and use of electricity.
                                                                                                    F4 Safety from Falling – confirming the safe design
E1 Surface Water – the method of disposal of,                                                       of all barriers (including handrails and balustrades)   G10 Piped Services – confirming the safe
for example, rainwater from external surfaces,                                                      inside and outside the building (includes the design    distribution of gas.
and confirmation that surface water cannot enter                                                    of swimming pool fences under the Fencing of
the building.                                                                                                                                               G11 Gas as an Energy Source – confirming the
                                                                                                    Swimming Pools Act 1987).
                                                                                                                                                            safe installation of gas-powered appliances.
E2 External Moisture – confirming that the design                                                   F5 Construction and Demolition Hazards –
and detailing of all external roof and wall claddings                                                                                                       G12 Water Supplies – confirming the safe supply
                                                                                                    confirming protection of people and other property
and external openings will prevent external moisture                                                                                                        (avoidance of scalding and backflow), storage,
                                                                                                    during construction or demolition.
from causing undue dampness or damage.                                                                                                                      reticulation and, where needed, heating of
                                                                                                    F7 Warning Systems – confirming provision of early      potable water.
                                                                                                    warning systems to alert people to an emergency.

14   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
G13 Foul Water – confirming the safe and sanitary         The drawings and construction details must be                     An applicant needs to provide a good reason
collection and disposal of foul water and the             specific to the project. You should clearly identify              and justification as to why an authority should
prevention of foul air from entering the building.        in the specification the particular materials and/or              waive a particular code clause in a given situation.
                                                          systems you intend to use. Do not include information
H1 Energy Efficiency – confirming the provision                                                                             For more information on waivers and modifications
                                                          on building products, methods or construction
of a warm, dry interior environment through                                                                                 see www.dbh.govt.nz/UserFiles/File/
                                                          details not relevant to the particular design.
insulation and controlling air movement, and the                                                                            Publications/Building/BCA/BCA-Update-
efficient use of energy.                                  If an element of the design does not comply with                  April-2010.pdf
                                                          a particular Acceptable Solution or Verification
                                                                                                                            Manufacturer’s information
                                                          Method, you need to demonstrate how that particular
3.2 GENERAL COMPLIANCE ISSUES
                                                          element or part element complies with the Building                Manufacturers should, as good practice, ensure their
Simply stating that a project complies with the           Code using other means of compliance, such as an                  information is dated and includes relevant technical
Building Code or a particular Standard cited in an        alternative solution. Your plans and specifications               data. Some materials and products contain mixed
Acceptable Solution is insufficient. You need to          need to clearly demonstrate compliance.                           technical and marketing/promotional information.
show how the building work will comply. For example,                                                                        (Refer to AS/NZS 1388 Guidelines for Technical
                                                          Where a building product or system is not necessary
for a residential building the performance requirements                                                                     Information for Building and Construction Products.)
                                                          to achieve compliance with the Building Code, you
of Building Code Clauses B1 (Structure) and B2
                                                          may be able to describe it generically, for example,              The Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods
(Durability) can be achieved by demonstrating
                                                          built-in shelving, storage units or kitchen and                   under the Building Code do not refer to specific
compliance with NZS 3604: Timber Framed Buildings
                                                          bathroom joinery carcasses.                                       branded products or systems. However, you can
and NZS 3602: Timber and Wood Based Products
                                                                                                                            propose brand-specific products and systems to
for use in Building, referenced in the Acceptable         For more information visit www.dbh.govt.nz/
                                                                                                                            demonstrate compliance with the Building Code.
Solutions B1/AS1 and B2/AS1. Because Standards            UserFiles/File/Publications/Building/Guidance-
                                                                                                                            Once the building consent has been issued, the
provide several different options, you should always      information/pdf/alternative-solutions.pdf
                                                                                                                            building consent authority must approve any changes
reference the relevant sections, clauses, figures and
                                                          Waivers and modifications                                         to the specific products or systems named in the
tables within the particular Standard that you are
                                                                                                                            application (where these affect Building Code
applying to make it clear which particular solution is    A territorial authority may waive or modify
                                                                                                                            compliance). The building consent authority
being proposed. Referencing Building Code clauses         certain aspects of the Building Code when
                                                                                                                            may treat these changes as minor variations.
and Standards only is insufficient.                       granting a building consent, if requested.
                                                                                                                            See section 1.8.

                                                                                                        GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    15
4.0 Design summary check sheet

An example of a completed design summary follows. It is a useful guide to completing a consent application.

 DESIGN SUMMARY CHECK SHEET

 BCA use                                         Project description:                                                         New single level 3 bedroom house with study and attached double garage. T imber framed construction on concrete

                                                                                                                                                         E
                                                                                                                              VODEZLWKßEUHFHPHQWZHDWKHUERDUGVRQDFDYLW\DQGORQJUXQFRUUXJDWHGURRI

                                                                                                                                                        L
                                                 Project information:                                                         Owner’s or agent’s name: Joe Public

                                                                                                                                                       P
                                                                                                                              Contact details: Ph 021 969 696
                                                                                                                              Designer’s name(s): Cool Design Ltd, Greendale

                                                                                                                                                    AM
                                                                                                                              Contact details: Ph 021 007 007
                                                                                                                              Site address: 71 Magellan Road, Greendale

                                                                                                                                                   X
                                                                                                                              Site legal description: Lot 10, DP 100902

                                                                                                                                                  E                       *RRGJURXQG UHIHU1=6FODXVH DQGFRQßUPHGE\VXEGLYLVLRQ
                                                 Site data:                                                                   Ground bearing
                                                                                                                                                                          geotechnical report ref # 010124.

                                                                                                     ED                       Exposure/corrosion zone                     Zone 1 (512m from coast by GIS ie 12m outside sea spray zone))

                                                                                                    K
                                                                                                                              Wind zone                                   High, derived from NZS 3604, section 5.

                                                                                                  R
                                                                                                                              Earthquake zone                             $ 1=6ßJXUH

                                                                O
                                                                                                                              Climate zone                                2 (NZS 4218:2004)

                                                               W
                                                 Building data:                                                               Building category                           IV/Domestic (NZS 3604, table 1.1)

                                                                                                                              Floor live loads                            1.5 kPa (NZS 3604, table 1.2)

                                                                                                                              Overall height of building                  3850mm (NZS 3604)

16   GU I D E TO A P PLY I N G F O R A BU I L D I N G C O N S E N T ( R ES I D E N T I A L BU I L D I N G S ) – S EC O N D E D I T I O N
BCA USE   KEY ASPECT/ BUILDING    IDENTIF Y NOMINATED                       LOCATION OF DETAILS                                                  COMMENTS
          COMPON ENT              MEANS OF COMPLIANC E                      IN CONSENT APPLICATION

          Foundation              Concrete slab as per NZS 3604: 1999,      Foundation plan (Sheet A03)                                          Also refer to note 1 on Sheet A20
                                  F ig. 7.13 (B) and F ig. 7.16 (B)         Details 01, 01A, 02 on Sheet A09                                     and notes 2, 3 Sheet A20

          Wall framing            NZS 3604:1999, 90x45 MSG8 treated                                                                              Notes 9, 12 Sheet A20

                                                                        E
                                  to H1.2, lintels to table 8.9, cast-in-
                                  EROWERWWRPSODWHß[LQJV

          Roof framing            NZS 3604:1999, Table 10.2 and SE D
                                  trusses

                                                                      PL    Roof plan (Sheet A06)                                                Trusses generally/rafters to raked
                                                                                                                                                 ceiling of lounge only

                                                                    M
          Roofing                 E2/AS1, Table 11                          Roof plan (Sheet A06)                                                Longrun corrugated galvanised metal
                                                                                                                                                 sheet(note 24, Sheet A20)

                                                                   A
                                                                 EX
          Cladding                E2/AS1, clause 9.5                        Sheet A16-18                                                         F ibre cement, weatherboard on
                                                                            Risk matrix, Sheet A19                                               a cavity – see notes 10, 10a on
                                                                                                                                                 Sheet A20

                                      D
          Bracing                 NZS 3604:1999                             Bracing plan, Sheet A05, A08                                         See separate bracing calculation sheet

                                     E
          Insulation              Roof: H1/AS1, Table 2 (a)                 Sections A, B Sheet A09                                              Foundation: 1200W perimeter

                                    K
                                  Walls: H1/AS1, Table 2 (a)                                                                                     insulation of 40 thick poly = R value
                                                                                                                                                 > 1.3 (schedule method)

                                  R
                                                                                                                                                 Roof: R 3.2 (wool), see note 19,
                                                                                                                                                 Sheet A20

                              O
                                                                                                                                                 Walls: R 2.2 (wool), Schedule
                                                                                                                                                 method – see note 20, Sheet A20

          Internal linings

                             W    E3/AS1, clause 3.1                        Sheet A19                                                            Walls: Plasterboard – see notes 9,
                                                                                                                                                 12 on Sheet A20
                                                                                                                                                 Floors: Vinyl to wet areas, carpet
                                                                                                                                                 elsewhere

                                                                                   GU I D E TO A P PLY I N G F O R A BU I L D I N G C O N S E N T ( R ES I D E N T I A L BU I L D I N G S ) – S EC O N D E D I T I O N   17
BCA USE                                         KEY ASPECT/ BUILDING                                                         IDENTIF Y NOMINATED                LOCATION OF DETAILS                  COMMENTS
                                                 COMPON ENT                                                                   MEANS OF COMPLIANC E               IN CONSENT APPLICATION

                                                                                                                                                          E
                                                 Bathrooms                                                                    G1/AS1, Table 1                    See bathroom plan, Sheet A08         Bathroom and separate ensuite

                                                                                                                                                         L
                                                                                                                                                                                                      Acrylic shower unit, waste water
                                                                                                                                                                                                      to gully trap, ventilation via opening

                                                                                                                                                        P
                                                                                                                                                                                                      window.

                                                                                                                                                      M
                                                 Plumbing                                                                     Electric mains HWC as per          'UDLQDJHOD\RXW$VSHFLßFDWLRQ
                                                                                                                              NZS 4606                           p.25

                                                                                                                                                     A
                                                                                                                              Water supply as per AS/NZ 3500.2

                                                                                                                                                    X
                                                 Drainage                                                                     AS/NZ 3500.2                       Refer to site plan A02               Foul water to council main, storm

                                                                                                                                                   E
                                                                                                                                                                                                      water to kerb and channel, wc to
                                                                                                                                                                                                      drain

                                                                                                                 D
                                                 Laundry                                                                      G2/AS1, clause 1                   Sheet A03                            Tub and washing machine in garage

                                                                                                                E
                                                                                                                              Table 1

                                                                                                               K
                                                 Kitchen                                                                      G3/AS1, clause 1                   6KHHW$DQGVSHFLßFDWLRQS      Electric oven, range hood, stainless
                                                                                                                                                                                                      steel bench, fridge/freezer,

                                                                                                             R
                                                                                                                                                                                                      dishwasher

                                                                           O
                                                 Smoke alarms                                                                 F7/AS1, clause 3.1                 Electrical Plan, Sheet A07           1 in hallway, 1 in lounge

                                                                          W
                                                 Natural light                                                                G7/AS1, clause 1.0                                                      1DWXUDOOLJKWYLDJOD]LQJ!àRRU
                                                                                                                                                                                                      area (see door/window schedule)

                                                 Heating                                                                      G9/AS1                             Electrical Plan, Sheet A07           Heat pump

                                                 Access                                                                       D1/AS1, Table 6                    Door/window schedule A09             Front entrance steps as per main
                                                                                                                                                                                                      private stairway

Note: If someone else besides the building consent authority (eg, a chartered professional engineer) needs to inspect any aspect of work, note it in the relevant comment section.

18   GU I D E TO A P PLY I N G F O R A BU I L D I N G C O N S E N T ( R ES I D E N T I A L BU I L D I N G S ) – S EC O N D E D I T I O N
5.0 Drawings

This section gives examples and brief explanations   Guidance is provided on the quality, content,
of consent drawings. Please note these are           form and type of information each drawing should
examples only.                                       include. The descriptions are not exhaustive but are
                                                     typical of the information that should be shown.
•   Site plan
•   Location plan
•   Foundation plan                                    Some of the recommended information is unrelated to the
                                                       Building Code but will help the building consent authority
•   Floor plan
                                                       determine whether the work complies or needs approval
•   Roof framing plan                                  under other legislation, such as local bylaws or district plan
•   Exterior elevation                                 requirements under the Resource Management Act. Such
                                                       additional information, as well as Building Code related
•   Sections                                           information, is shown in text boxes like this.
•   Construction details
•   Door/window schedule
•   Plumbing layout/schematic plan
•   Electrical plan
•   Wet area details

                                                                                                              GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N    19
5.1 Site plan

The purpose of a site plan is to show the location of the proposed building work on the site in relation
to adjoining properties.                                                                                                                                                Additional information
                                                                                                                                                                        When preparing the plan, check with the building consent
                                                                                                                                                                        authority and network utility operators for information on
 Dr awing t ype                                 Recommended scale                             Minimum recommended detail ( Note 2 )                                     the location of existing services both to and across the site.
 ( Note 1)                                                                                                                                                              Including calculations for site coverage on the site plan
                                                                                                                                                                        will help the territorial authority determine compliance
 Site plan                                      1:200 (Note 4)                                Legal description, legal boundaries and easements
                                                                                                                                                                        with district plan requirements.
 (Note 3)
                                                                                              North point
                                                                                              Building location, including dimensions in metres to boundaries,
                                                                                              and boundary fire ratings                                             Table notes
                                                                                              Spot levels or contours and site datum                                Note 1		 Drawings may be combined.
                                                                                              Location of existing and new services (water, power, gas,             Note 2 		 Requirements may differ where the building project is an
                                                                                              stormwater, foul water) and method of disposal/discharge                        alteration or addition to an existing building.
                                                                                              Connection between services and network utility operators’            Note 3 		 For rural and/or larger sites a 1:500 (or 1:1000) location plan
                                                                                              systems                                                                         may be needed to confirm the site location. This is especially
                                                                                                                                                                              relevant where the distance to boundaries cannot be shown
                                                                                              Proposed/actual driveway, site finishes (hard and soft) with levels
                                                                                                                                                                              on the site plan due to the size of the property.
                                                                                              and falls
                                                                                                                                                                    Note 4		 A scale of 1:500 or 1:100 may be adequate.
                                                                                              Excavation details (cut and fill) and retaining walls
                                                                                              Existing buildings and site features
                                                                                              Identify known natural hazards
                                                                                              Identify vehicle crossings

20   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
CONTRACTOR SHALL VERIFY ALL DIMENSIONS ON SITE.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       REVISIONS

                                 Site plan – sample only

                                  6,310                                 4,433              580                               6,200                                  2,600     580               1,230           600                                   8,370                                           3,295                                                                            CLIENT

                                  6,310                                    5,013                                                                    11,210                                                                                          8,370                                             3,295

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       CONTRACTOR

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              10
                                                                                                                                                                                     NOTE: Block boundary wall to Garage is 20mm off boundary

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                .0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Boundary 34,198

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        9. K
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        9.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  00

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          86
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          98
                                          10

                                                                                   10

                                                                                                                                                                            10

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    D

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             6
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             7
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           10
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            dp

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     at
                                            .7

                                                                                     .7

                                                                                                                                                                              .8

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               In

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           20
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             .5

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       um
                                              48

                                                                                       21

                                                                                                                                                                                06

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               65
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Timber retaining wall
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      125x125 posts H4 treated and                                                     CONSULTANTS
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      200x50 retaining wall H4 treated
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Post hole to be at depth equal to
                                                                                             dp                              gt                      vent                                  gt            dp                                                                                           height of retainng wall.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  10
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Proposed Garage

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    .1
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      50
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Finished slab level                                                        Fall seal 50mm

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             10
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               .6
                                                                                                                                                                                                                              10300

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           6,170
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 24
                                                                   dp

                                                     15.00°
                                                                                                                                     DW                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                PROPOSED NEW DWELLING
                                                                                       First                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           ABC STREET
                                                                                      show floor ab                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    City field empty
                                                                                             n ha ove
                                                                                                 tche
                                                                                                     d                                                                      10
                                              0

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Area to be sealed
                                             6,13

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Locally ramp seal to garage door
                                                                                                                                                                              .7

                                                                                                                    Prop                                                                                                                                                                                  refer to floorplan
                                                                                                                                                                                41

                                                                                                                   Finis osed H                                                                                                                                                                           finished seal level
                                                                                                                   1070 hed sla ouse                                                                                                                                                                      at perimeter 10200                                                           SITE PLAN

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           2,280
                                                                                                                       0       b lev
                                                                                                                                    el
                                                                                                                                                                                                                             dp

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              ABC STREET
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Construct sump

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           200
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Type 1 as E1/AS
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  sump surface
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  finished level 10150
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Area to be excavated to

                                                                                                                                                                                                                      gt
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    a depth of approximately
                     Note: Excavate locally around the

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           3,092
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    10050 shown shaded.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           0

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            road crossing
                     perimeter of the house to

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            Form new 4m
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      2,80
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    Refer to floor plans for
                     225mm below finished slab level                                                                                                                                                                                                area to be battered back
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    to ground level.
                      Pt RS 206                        1,60
                                                            0
                      CT386/187                                                                               dp                                                                           dp
                                                                                                  100                                                                                                                             200
                                                                                                                                                                            10

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            10
                                                                                                      dia   sewe
Boundary 14,886

                                                                                                                                                                              .7

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              .7
                                                                                   4,78
                      SIte Area 506m2                                                  0                        r sta                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Existing sewer lateral
                                                                                                                                                                                76

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                04
                                                                                                                     ck go                                                                                                                                                            100 dia sewer
                      Ground floor Area 135.5m2                                                                           es up                                                                                                                                                                                                                 to be reused

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Boundary 14,886
                                                                                                                                  wall
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  9

                      Accessory Building Area 52m2                                                                                     and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                             1,95

                                                                                                                     3,27                    vents                                                                                                                          Timber retaining wall                                                                                      SCALE                                                   1:100
                      Area Ground Floor 187.5m2                                                                          0                         throu                                                                                                                    125x125 posts H4 treated and

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           3,325
                                                                                                                                                        gh ro
                      Area First Floor 100m2                                                                                                                 of                                                                                                             200x50 retaining wall H4 treated                                                                           DATE                                       02 February 06
                                                                                                                                                                                                                            170

                                                                                                                        17,20                                                                                                                                               Post hole to be at a depth equal
                      Total Area of Building 287.50m2                                                                        5
                                                                                                                                                            4,74                                                                                                            to height of retaining wall
                                                                                                                                                                0                                                                                                                                                                                                                      JOB No.                                                  0712
                                                                                   10

                                                                                                                                                                            10

                      Site Coverage 26.8%

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                10
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   No 51
   .8

                                                                                     .7

                                                                                                                                                                              .8

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        10

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        9.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       DRAWN

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  .5
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  CH
     12

                                                                                       94

                                                                                                                                                                                55

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           95
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           .0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    63
                                                                                                                                                                                     390

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             84

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              9
                                                                                                                                                                                                1,91                                                                               Boundary 34,198
                                                                                                                                                                                                    0

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                In
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       CHECKED

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 K
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  KR
                                                                                                                                                                                                                525
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       STATUS                                           CONSENT
                                  6,310                                                                            14,267                                                                               2,903         827                                   6,596                                     3,295
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       DRAWING No.                                      REVISION

                  SITE PLAN                                     Note: existing ground levels shown thus
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       A01                                                   A
                                                                                                                     10
                                                                                                                       .7

                  Scale      1:100
                                                                                                                         48

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       © THE DESIGNS CONTAINED ON THIS SHEET OF DRAWINGS ARE COPYRIGHT

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N                          21
5.2 Location plan

A location plan is a high-level ‘bird’s eye view’ of the area surrounding the proposed building work. It shows
the location of the proposed work in relation to adjoining streets or properties. These plans are particularly                                       Additional information
                                                                                                                                                     Where the property is located in a flood zone, confirm
useful in rural or remote locations, or multi-unit residential complexes.                                                                            the relationship between the site datum and the minimum
                                                                                                                                                     occupied floor level set by the territorial authority in the
 Dr awing t ype                                 Recommended Scale                             Minimum Recommended detail ( Note 2 )                  district plan.
 ( Note 1)                                                                                                                                           The distance to relevant boundaries can be added to
                                                                                                                                                     the location plan, where this cannot be shown on the site
 Location plan                                  1:500 (Note 3)                                Legal description, legal boundaries and easements      plan, due to the size of the property.
                                                                                              North point
                                                                                              Existing buildings and site features
                                                                                                                                                  Table notes
                                                                                              Identify known natural hazards
                                                                                                                                                  Note 1		 Drawings may be combined.
                                                                                              Identify vehicle crossings
                                                                                                                                                  Note 2		 Requirements may differ where the building project is an
                                                                                                                                                           alteration or addition to an existing building.

                                                                                                                                                  Note 3		 For rural and/or larger sites, a scale of 1:1000 or smaller may
                                                                                                                                                           be needed to confirm the site location.

22   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
Location plan – sample only

                           XX
                                XX

                     IVE
                                     DR
                                          IV

                Y DR
                                               E
               YYY

                                                                                                                                                                                                   CLIENT

                                                                                                                                                                                                   CONTRACTOR

                                                                                                                                                                                                   CONSULTANTS

                                                                                                                                                                                                   PROPOSED NEW DWELLING
                                                                                                                                                                                                   ABC STREET
                                                          setout position to be confirmed by designer
                                                          and owner prior to excavation of founds.

                                                                                                                   N

                                                                                                         35,000
                                                        Lot XX DP YYY
                                                        Area approx:                          1.1125ha
                                                        Total Building (inc verandahs):       404m2
                                                        Total site coverage:                  3.63%

                                                                                                                        M
                                                                                                                        A
                                                                                                                        E
                                                                          57,000

                                                                                                                        R
                                                                                                                        T
                                                                                                                                                                                                   SITE PLAN

                                                                                                                        S
                                                                                                                                                                                                   SITE LOCATION PLAN

                                                                                                                        1
                                                                                                                        L
                                                                                                          10,300

                                                                                                                                                                                                   SCALE                          

                                                                                                                                                                                                   DATE                     01 May 2010

                                                                                                                                                                                                   JOB No.                        07123

                                                                                                                                                                                                   DRAWN

                                                                                                                                                                                                   CHECKED

                                                                                                                                                                                                   STATUS                   Construction

                                                   Location Plan                                                                             1:1000                                                DRAWING No.                REVISION

                                                                                                                                                                                                   A01                            A

                                                                                                                       GU I D E TO A P PLY I N G F O R A BU I L D I N G C O N S E N T ( R ES I D E N T I A L BU I L D I N G S ) – S EC O N D E D I T I O N   23
5.3 Foundation plan

The foundation plan illustrates to the building consent authority and your building practitioners the foundation
design you propose, and details its specific dimensions and construction requirements.                                                                                   Additional information
                                                                                                                                                                         Where the property is located in a flood zone, confirm
 Dr awing t ype                                 Recommended scale                             Minimum recommended detail ( Note 2 )                                      the relationship between the site datum and the minimum
 ( Note 1)                                                                                                                                                               occupied floor level set by the territorial authority in the
                                                                                                                                                                         district plan.
 Foundation plan                                1:100 (Note 3)                                Concrete slab dimensions and thickenings (where applicable)
                                                                                                                                                                         If a registered engineer has designed the foundations,
                                                                                              Concrete slab reinforcing details and construction joints                  provide supporting information, including calculations,
                                                                                              Foundation walls                                                           design assumptions (eg, soil bearing) and possibly a
                                                                                                                                                                         producer statement for design. Identify details of
                                                                                              Pile layout with dimensions, pile type bearer sizes (including decks       inspections and tests to be carried out by the design
                                                                                              and pergolas)                                                              engineer on the building consent application form
                                                                                              Finished floor heights in relation to site datum                           under the heading ‘Proposed owner inspections’.
                                                                                              Sub-floor bracing layout
                                                                                              Sub-floor ventilation (or show on elevations)
                                                                                                                                                                     Table notes
                                                                                              Floor framing layout (optional) (Note 4)
                                                                                                                                                                     Note 1		 Drawings may be combined.
                                                                                              Specific design foundations
                                                                                                                                                                     Note 2		 Requirements may differ where the building project is
                                                                                                                                                                              an alteration or addition to an existing building.

                                                                                                                                                                     Note 3		 A scale of 1:50 may be needed where foundations are
                                                                                                                                                                              relatively complex.

                                                                                                                                                                     Note 4		 Provided it is clear as to what is required, it may not be
                                                                                                                                                                              necessary to show each and every floor joist.

24   GUID E TO A PPLYIN G F O R A BUILDIN G C O N S E NT ( R ES ID E NTI A L BUILDIN G S ) – S EC O ND E DITI O N
You can also read