Get inspired
See what designs have worked for others and explore what might work for you. Gather examples and note down ideas, questions, likes, and dislikes.
Our House of the Year competition and Pinterest boards showcase new build and renovation projects for a range of budgets and are a great place to start.
House of the Year
Pinterest boards
Develop your plans
There are different ways to approach the planning process, depending on your budget, scope, and type of building partner.
For simpler projects such as bathrooms or kitchens, a draughtsperson or specialist designer may be suitable. Your builder may provide a draughting service.
Volume builders may offer a range of house plans to choose from. Some customisation might be possible.
For more complex or custom new builds and renovations, it is common to work with an architect to develop your plans.
Your designer will let you know if other experts, like a structural engineer, are required. A Master Builder can also offer advice on the budget and planning for your project.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has guidance on building projects, including smarter homes.
Smarter homes guides (MBIE)
Renovations are unique
Renovations can throw up challenges when existing spaces are investigated. Original plans might not be accurate and older construction methods and materials can bring surprises.
You may need to alter your design to work around what already exists. Approach this with a sense of optimism and creativity. Your builder and designer can guide you.
Choose a builder
Communication is key
Choose a builder who communicates clearly and is willing and able to have tricky conversations if needed, including about potential price escalations and project delays. This is a sign of a trustworthy partner who can guide you through your project.
Communication is a two-way process. It is important to talk about potential issues and challenges and how you will deal with them if they arise.
The right experience
Choose a builder who has experience in projects like yours. Ask if they have the right technical expertise, experience, and knowledge.
Speak to a builder’s previous clients. This can provide insights into what they are like to work with, their communication and the end result.
The right price
Compare three quotes before choosing a builder. A quote is a commitment to a price and should not change (whereas an estimate is an approximate price and may change).
Allow extra in your budget for variations and unexpected costs.
Managing price escalations and variations
Choose a Master Builder
Master Builders is a recognised and trusted New Zealand brand. We believe our builder members are the best in the industry.
To become a Master Builder, quality criteria must be met, including:
- building experience
- trade and professional qualifications
- on-site management experience
- workmanship (verified through checks with previous clients)
- financial responsibility.
About Master Builders
Find a Master Builder
Contracts and guarantees
Contracts
Discuss your contract with your builder. Make sure you understand what is covered and what is not, including the scope of work, timelines, and payment schedules.
Your builder may request a deposit. This allows them to undertake preliminary work or purchase materials. Typically, a deposit should be no more than 10%.
Allow for price escalations. Fixed-price contracts may mean you are paying too much to cover all the risk of price escalation, or paying too little so that your project could become unviable.
The Master Builders Contract (RBC1) is regularly reviewed to make sure it remains relevant for New Zealand conditions and is transparent and fair.
Working with your builder
Guarantees
For new builds and significant renovations, your builder must offer a guarantee if one is available.
Only a Master Builder can offer you the Master Build 10-Year Guarantee. Our Guarantee is one of the most comprehensive products on the market. It provides cover if your builder is unable or unwilling to finish the project or address defects.
A Guarantee is not automatically provided by using a Master Builder. The Guarantee is separate from your building contract and must be applied for and approved before building starts.
Master Build 10-Year Guarantee
Legal advice
A building project is often a significant investment. Get independent legal advice, ideally from a lawyer with experience in construction.
A lawyer can explain:
- the building contract and guarantee
- the key risks you face
- your rights and obligations (and those of the builder and any other parties).
Council consent
Before work starts, a new build and some renovations will need a building consent from your local council. Your builder or designer will usually manage this process for you.
The council will require proof of ownership, detailed plans, specifications of materials and building systems, and a record of work from a licenced building practitioner.
Provide as much information to your council as possible at this stage to avoid delays.
Once work is completed, you must advise your council and apply for a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC). Your builder will usually do this for you.
Apply for building consent (MBIE)