Know exactly what you can legally do yourself — and what requires a licensed tradie. Avoid fines, void insurance, and dangerous work.
NZ has clear rules about what homeowners can and can't do. The guides below cover each trade — with plain-English explanations of the law, what the actual risks are, and where to get a licensed professional when you need one.
EWRB rules explained — changing light bulbs is fine, adding power points is not. Full list of what NZ homeowners can legally do.
Legal limitsPGDB rules for DIY plumbing — tap washers yes, drainage connections no. Know exactly where the line is before you pick up a spanner.
Legal limitsSchedule 1 exemptions explained — small sheds, decks under 1.5m, and minor alterations that don't need a building consent or LBP.
Legal limitsOwner-builder rules in NZ — when you can manage your own build, what you can't sign off yourself, and the insurance implications.
Legal limitsStep-by-step guides for common DIY jobs that NZ homeowners can legally tackle themselves.
Prep, primer, cutting in, and rolling — the right order and tools to get a professional finish without hiring a painter.
DIY guidePost spacing, concrete depth, paling patterns — what you can do yourself and when you need consent.
DIY guideTreated pine, composite, or hardwood — framing, joists, and board spacing for a consent-exempt deck.
DIY guideCeiling and underfloor insulation — what homeowners can install themselves, H1 requirements, and choosing the right R-value.
DIY guideCompare your tradie quote against NZ benchmarks — instantly see if you're being overcharged.
ToolEstimate your full renovation budget — bathroom, kitchen, extension — before you speak to a builder.
CalculatorWork out how many boards, joists, and fixings you need for your deck before buying materials.
CalculatorPosts, rails, palings, and concrete — calculate materials for any fence length and style.
CalculatorPost your job free and get quotes from licensed tradespeople in your area.
Not sure whether to DIY or hire? Start with our project planning guides — they cover timelines, trade sequencing, and budgets.
Who goes first? Builders, electricians, plumbers, GIBbers — the correct sequence for any renovation.
PlanningWeek-by-week timeline, trade sequence, budget stages, and decisions to make before demo day.
PlanningJoinery lead times, electrical upgrades, plumbing changes — the full planning sequence for a kitchen reno.
PlanningConsent, designer, engineer, builder — the full timeline from idea to code compliance.
Planning