Tiny houses are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand. Whether on wheels or consented on foundations, they offer an affordable alternative to traditional homes. These homes are also incredibly energy efficient.
However, zoning rules and local council regulations can still affect how many tiny houses you can build on your property. This is particularly true if the houses are on wheels.
Building a tiny house in New Zealand
Getting the right builder can make or break your tiny house project. The best way to find a builder is through referrals from other homeowners, but it’s also worth doing your own research on companies and builders via platforms like the Business Register and Licensed Building Practitioner Register. You can also ask for references and reviews from previous customers.
Depending on whether your tiny house is transportable or permanent, different regions will have different rules and regulations. For instance, a tiny house on wheels must be no more than 4.25 meters in height, or it will be classified as an over-height load and need a permit to travel on public roads.
Matthew Lillis, a former engineer, chose to build his own tiny house because it aligns with his values of minimalism and adventure. He plans to use it as a base camp for a community in Christchurch’s red zone, with shared gardens, monthly BBQs, and path-crossings to encourage walking.
Finding a builder
The process of finding a builder isn’t always easy, but it’s essential to the success of your project. You can start by asking friends and family for recommendations. You can also look online for reviews and references. It is also important to find a builder that is licenced and insured.
A good home builder is involved in every aspect of your build, including negotiating prices and sourcing materials. They have extensive knowledge of building codes and local zoning regulations, and can help you avoid costly mistakes. They can also supervise subcontractors and artisans, check that work meets standards, and perform dozens of other duties.
When choosing tiny house builders NZ, make sure to ask for recommendations and get all quotes in writing. A written contract protects both parties and sets out their rights and obligations. A verbal or handshake agreement leaves too much room for interpretation. You should also insist on a clear payment schedule and timeline.
Putting a tiny house on your property
If you want to put your tiny house NZ on a property, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to find out if the land is zoned and what building standards apply. You can check with your local government to find out this information. You also need to consider the costs of utilities. Some beautiful areas may not have power or water access, which can be expensive.
Most tiny homes are built by their owners or by small companies. They are designed with craftsmanship, an eye for detail and much care and thought. Unlike regular houses that are often built with sales value in mind, tiny homes can express the owner’s true personality and values.
The TINY movement is empowering people to live with fewer possessions and focus on what’s important. Many find that a simpler lifestyle helps them feel more centered and enables them to pursue their passions.
Getting approvals
Whether or not a tiny house needs to be approved by council will depend on its size and whether it is intended for permanent use. Tiny houses on wheels typically avoid the need for consent as they are considered transportable vehicles, while those that are built as permanent dwellings will likely be subject to building regulations and requirements. Getting a code compliance certificate is an important step in the process, as it certifies that the tiny home meets New Zealand standards and the requirements set by local councils.
For many people, the small homes movement is a way to get on the property ladder without having to pay for a big mortgage. However, the rules surrounding them can be confusing and complicated. This is especially true for those who live in tiny homes that are parked on their own land. For these people, the decision by a court judge in North Canterbury will provide some clarity on the legality of their living arrangements.