The government has had a very busy legislative agenda this year, focused on streamlining processes, increasing the availability of products, and reforming liability settings.
 
As there's been a lot going on, we thought a quick recap might be helpful as we consider their impact on design and construction. So here are the key legislative and regulatory changes implemented or introduced in 2025:

Building Consenting System Reforms

• Granny flat exemption: From early 2026, small standalone dwellings up to 70m² can be built without consent if they meet Building Code standards.
• Self-certification: A voluntary scheme for qualified tradespeople will allow self-certification of simple residential dwellings from late 2025.
• Faster inspections: From August 2025, BCAs must complete 80% of inspections within three working days.
• BCA consolidation: Councils are being encouraged to merge BCAs for greater efficiency, with supporting reforms due in 2026.

Building Product Availability

• Overseas product recognition: New legislation (April 2025) allows BCAs to accept overseas-certified products, starting with WaterMark-approved plumbing items.
• Thermal design flexibility: H1 standards are being changed to remove rigid Schedule Method requirements.

Resource Management Act (RMA) Reforms

• Fast-track approvals: The Fast-Track Approvals Amendment Bill aims to expedite major infrastructure, housing, and renewable projects.
• Simplified consenting: 2025 amendments reduce barriers to new housing and limit new rural-urban boundaries.

Other Key Changes

• Liability reform: The government agreed to change liability settings from "joint and several liability" to "proportionate liability", meaning parties involved in defective work are only responsible for their own contribution. A draft bill is expected in early 2026.

There is now a "pause" in place for further legislative reform to allow us to focus on the implementation, and consequences of these changes.

For detailed information on the New Zealand Building Code, compliance pathways, news, and updates on policy and legislation, head to the MBIE Building Performance Website.