Understanding Restricted Building Work in Auckland

Why Do We Have Restricted Building Work Rules?

The RBW rules were introduced to protect homeowners after years of issues such as the leaky homes crisis. These rules ensure:

• The right people are responsible for work that keeps your home structurally sound and dry.

• Homeowners have a Record of Work to show council and future buyers.

• There’s accountability if something goes wrong.

  
  

What Counts as Restricted Building Work?

RBW includes anything that directly affects:

• Structure – framing, load-bearing walls, beams, foundations.

• Weather tightness – cladding, windows, doors, flashings.

• Certain fire-safety and bracing elements – particularly in multi-unit housing.

  
  

In practice, this covers things like:

• Removing or altering load-bearing walls

• Recladding or cutting into cladding

• Extending your home or converting a garage to living space

• Building decks over 1.5m high

  
  

Who Can Complete Restricted Building Work?

Restricted Building Work (RBW) must be designed, carried out, or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP).

What is a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP)?

Licensed Building Practitioners (LBP) are qualified building professionals. They have been assessed by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) for their skills and knowledge in materials and building regulations. They must maintain their qualifications, upskill, and keep up to date with materials and regulations. They operate ethically and are recorded on a public register for consumers to verify their credentials.

This licence system was introduced to improve building quality and accountability. It ensures that only those with the right skills, knowledge, and experience can legally perform the work that is critical to a home’s structure and weathertightness (RBW).

Key Points About LBPs

• Complete mandatory skills maintenance and stay up to date with new materials, systems, and products.

• Keep current with Building Code changes, regulations, and industry best practices.

• Follow the LBP Code of Ethics and the Licensed Building Practitioners Rules 2007.

• They are responsible for providing a Record of Work (RoW) to both the council and homeowner when RBW is completed — this is required for council sign-off.

• LBPs are held accountable for the quality and compliance of their work.

  
  

In short, an LBP is not just a builder — they are a builder who is officially recognised and licensed to carry out essential building work that affects the safety, durability, and compliance of your home.

Can a Qualified Builder Carry Out Restricted Building Work Without an LBP?

No, a qualified builder cannot complete Restricted Building Work without a Licensed Building Practitioner and cannot produce a Record of Works to a homeowner without a LBP.

Why It Matters to You

Using a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) for Restricted Building Work isn’t about red tape — it’s about peace of mind. With Alder Homes, you know your project is handled by qualified builders who are not only accountable for their work but committed to delivering it to the highest standard. That means your home stays safe, compliant, and future-proofed. Also, when it comes time to sell, you’ll have the paperwork and quality to back it up.

The Benefits of Choosing an LBP

When you choose to work with a Licensed Building Practitioner, you gain several advantages:

1. Expertise: LBPs have the training and experience to handle complex building tasks.

2. Quality Assurance: Their work meets strict regulatory standards, ensuring your home is safe and durable.

3. Peace of Mind: Knowing that your builder is licensed provides reassurance throughout the building process.

4. Future Value: A home built or renovated by an LBP is more attractive to future buyers, as it comes with a Record of Work.

   
   

Common Misconceptions About RBW

Many homeowners have misconceptions about Restricted Building Work. Here are a few clarifications:

• RBW is only for large projects: While RBW often applies to significant renovations, even smaller changes can fall under these regulations.

• All builders can do RBW: Only those with LBP certification can legally perform RBW. This ensures that the work is done correctly and safely.

• RBW is just a formality: It’s crucial for maintaining the integrity of your home. Skipping this step can lead to costly repairs down the line.

  
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding Restricted Building Work is essential for any homeowner considering renovations or extensions. By working with a Licensed Building Practitioner, you ensure that your project is completed to the highest standards. This not only protects your investment but also enhances the safety and comfort of your home.

👉 Want to know who can legally do RBW?

👉 Wondering what work doesn’t need consent?

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