Regulation changes pending for tiny homes

Revisions to the Building Act expected to come into effect this year will establish a new schedule exempting standalone dwellings of up to 60 square metres in size from Building Consent requirements. This covers dwellings such as tiny homes, granny flats and modular accommodation. The new schedule is expected to have additional criteria recognising increased health and safety risks associated with granny flats. To mitigate these risks, it expected that qualified professionals will adhere to Building Code Acceptable Solutions for structure and weathertightness and be prepared to sign off completed properties.

Steve Lyons, from Affordable Modular Homes (AMH), says the changes will reduce the time to build and red tape for under 60 square metre dwellings, including not having to pay building consent fees of $2,000 to $5,000.

Steve says, “We’re expecting to see that consumers can choose the design and build particulars, notification requirements provide a record to councils of new buildings, and Resource Consents will largely be replaced by a new environmental standard. Generally, the regulations will be simplified and more flexible.”

For farmers and organisations employing RSE workers, the new regulations will allow the installation of accommodation units avoiding the issues that many have encountered when dealing with local councils.

“Our team at Affordable Modular Homes (AMH) has worked with Fruitfed Supplies and talked with numerous growers to understand the needs of RSE workers.

“We have high quality modular units that can be erected on your land, such as the basic Solo unit which accommodate two workers in comfort and, under the regulations, is roomy enough for three workers, thus providing a saving on a per person/bed basis. 

“We also have several options for relocatable bathroom and kitchen buildings, as well as various one, two and three bed accommodation options that can be delivered and assembled on site.”