Thinking of Renovating Your Bathroom? Know What Needs Consent

A bathroom renovation can add real appeal and value to your home, but before you start ripping out the old shower, there's one important thing to check: does your renovation require building consent?

Not all bathroom upgrades require consent. However, replacing an acrylic or fibreglass shower with a tiled walk-in shower will generally require building consent, even if the shower remains in the same location.

The reason? Tiled showers rely on a waterproofing membrane beneath the tiles. Once installed, this critical component is hidden, making it difficult to verify that the work meets Building Code requirements.

Already Have an Unconsented Tiled Shower?

If your tiled shower was installed without the required consent after 1 July 1992, you may be able to apply to NCC or TDC for a Certificate of Acceptance (CoA).

However, a CoA isn't guaranteed. Council may require professional reports, waterproofing records, invasive inspections or remedial work before deciding whether it can issue a certificate. The work is assessed against the current Building Code, and Council may be unable to verify concealed components.

Applications also involve fees, and the process can take time.

Why Does It Matter When Selling?

An unconsented tiled shower won't necessarily stop you selling your home, but it can create complications with buyers, building inspections, finance and insurance.

Real estate agents also have disclosure obligations, so identifying any unconsented work early is important.

Renovating? Check Before You Start.

Whether you're planning a complete bathroom makeover or simply upgrading your shower, check with Council before committing to the work. Some like-for-like replacements and cosmetic improvements may be exempt from consent, while other changes require approval.

If you've already renovated, or you're unsure about work completed by a previous owner, your property's Council file is a good place to start.

Our advice? A quick check before renovating could save you considerable time, expense and frustration when it comes time to sell.

We're always happy to help homeowners understand how property improvements and documentation may affect a future sale – it’s important to us to ensure a smooth sales experience for both vendors and buyers.

This article provides general information only. Consent requirements depend on the work involved. Always confirm requirements with NCC or TDC before starting renovations.