Delays in processing building consents and code compliance certificates have significantly decreased since the Government began publishing council performance data, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says.
Frustrations over lengthy paperwork have long plagued builders and homebuyers, prompting the Minister to direct the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) to release quarterly performance data from Building Consent Authorities (BCAs).
According to the latest figures, 92.7% of building consents and 96.8% of code compliance certificates were processed within statutory timeframes in the first quarter of 2025—up from 88% and 93.6% when reporting began in 2024.
In total, nearly 32,000 applications and certificates were handled in the first quarter, 1,000 more than the same period last year.
Penk credited the improvement to increased transparency and accountability. He also announced upcoming reforms, including legislation that will allow trusted professionals to self-certify certain work, reducing the volume of applications and easing system pressure.
Councils will also be required to carry out 80% of building inspections within three working days. The Government aims to speed up the building process, ultimately helping more Kiwi families move into homes faster.
Image credit: Getty Images
Building consents are a genuine dog and pony show. Surly, unhelpful councils who half the time wont even tell you if you need a consent or not. WCC is the worst I’ve come across. Last time I contact them I was told to go read the manual, which was about as clear as mud. In the end I called my building surveyor and he helped me sort it out.
Suffice to say the whole process needs be made clearer, easier to understand and councils legally obliged to be pro active and helpful. Its in everyone’s interests, including theirs.