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Choosing your designer, builder and specialists

Hiring good professionals to help you can be crucial to the whole building experience.

If you need a designer, builder, carpenter or tradesman, go to the Licensed Building Practitioner register. Licensed building practitioners (LBPs) have undergone a robust application process, including a written application, verbal testing by proficient assessors, and referees’ confirmation of their work. They keep up with the changing industry and undergo continuous skills maintenance.

See our ConsumerBuild website for more information on working with designersLink to the ConsumerBuild website. and buildersLink to the ConsumerBuild website..

Doing it yourself

Any building work that requires a building consent must be completed to the appropriate standards under the Building Code. Some work, notably gas, plumbing and electrical work, must be done by a professional.

In March 2012 Restricted Building Work requirements will apply, meaning only licensed practitioners can do some types of building work. However, DIYers will still be able carry out restricted building work on their homes if they:

  • are an individual (not a company or trust)
  • have a legal, beneficial or equitable interest in the land
  • carry out the work themselves or with a close friend or relative
  • complete a statutory declaration that they meet these conditions.