Convert a Garage or a Shed
If you want to convert a garage or shed into a sleepout or other dwelling, there are a few regulations you need to comply with. In some cases, resource consent may be necessary as well as building consent. Please contact us for further information.
Building requirements
- An application for a building consent and the deposit fee
- Two sets of scaled detailed plans including a floor plan (1:50), elevations (1:100), cross-section (1:50), drainage and site plan (1:200)
- Two sets of comprehensive specifications including wall bracing calculations
- Polythene must be installed under the floor. An excavation of part of the foundation and floor slab is required to confirm that a polythene vapour barrier is in place
- The concrete floor height should be a minimum of 225mm above adjacent clear ground level
- Building paper is to be installed between the timber framing and exterior cladding
- The building is required to have a separate bathroom, toilet, laundry and kitchen (these can be free-standing)
- Sufficient opening and fixed windows are to provide adequate light and ventilation
- Walls and ceiling require insulation and lining
- Ceiling trusses are to be spaced at no greater than 1.2 max. centres and be of adequate design to support the ceiling lining materials.
Converting a shed in an urban area
If the existing building is sited closer than 1.5m from a site side or rear boundary, resource consent and special fire ratings may be required.
Converting a shed in a rural area
A septic tank system or an alternative approved on-site effluent treatment system must be installed in accordance with Environment Bay of Plenty’s Onsite Effluent Treatment Regional Plan. Connection to a portable water supply is also required.