Here’s what you need to know:
Does my bathroom reno need to meet the Building Code?
Yes, it does! Every bathroom renovation in New Zealand has to meet the Building Code. That covers things like waterproofing, plumbing, ventilation, and electrical safety—so your bathroom stays dry, safe, and problem-free.
Will I need a building consent?
You might. If you're making structural changes, changing the plumbing layout, or doing major waterproofing, building consent is usually required. If your house is heritage-listed or you're changing the outside look of your home, resource consent could also be needed. Not sure? Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting can help you figure it out.
Can I do the work myself?
Some smaller jobs like painting are fine to DIY, but anything involving plumbing, gas, drainage, or electrical work must be done by licensed tradespeople. We work with trusted professionals, including LBPs, sparkies, and certified plumbers and gasfitters (like us!) to make sure everything’s up to scratch.
What about ventilation and moisture control?
Bathrooms need good airflow to stop mould and moisture issues. You'll usually need an extractor fan to meet the Building Code’s ventilation requirements. Waterproofing also has to meet specific standards to protect your home from leaks. We make sure all of this is taken care of during your renovation.
Who checks that everything is done properly?
If you need a building consent, the council will inspect the key stages of your project. Once everything's done and up to code, they’ll issue a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) to give you peace of mind. We’ll help coordinate these inspections and keep things moving smoothly.
Still have questions?
No problem! Renovations can be tricky, but we’re here to help. Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting can walk you through the rules, help with consents, and much more!
Creating a bathroom that works for you—now and into the future:
How do I get the layout right?
A good layout makes a huge difference. Think about where your toilet, shower, vanity, and storage will go—and make sure there’s enough room to move around comfortably. At Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting, we can help you plan a layout that makes the most of your space and suits how you actually use your bathroom.
Can I save costs by using existing plumbing?
Yes, absolutely! If your current plumbing setup works for your new layout, sticking with it can help keep costs down. We’ll take a look and let you know what’s possible—and what’s worth updating.
What should I think about for ventilation?
Good ventilation is essential in a bathroom. Installing an extractor fan is a must to keep moisture and mould at bay. We make sure your ventilation is up to code and works effectively to keep your space fresh and dry.
What kind of lighting should I include?
A mix of lighting types works best—natural light during the day, bright task lighting for shaving or makeup, and ambient lighting for a relaxing bath. We’ll also help plan things like mirror lights, heated towel rails, and power points so everything’s exactly where you need it.
What if I want my bathroom to be more accessible?
Whether you're future-proofing or just want more comfort, features like walk-in showers, non-slip flooring, and wider doorways are great options. We can help you design a space that’s both stylish and easy to use for everyone.
What do I do while my bathroom is being renovated?
Great question—especially if it’s your only bathroom! We’ll chat through options like arranging a temporary portable bathroom or making other plans during the reno. Don’t stress—Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting has done this before, and we’ve got you covered.
Don't worry, we can help you with this process at Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting Ltd.
Hiring licensed professionals ensures safety, compliance, and quality workmanship. Key things you need to remember:
Showers, wet rooms, and areas exposed to water must have properly installed waterproof membranes to protect underlying structures. Poor waterproofing can lead to costly repairs, so it's crucial to use a licensed professional to get it done right the first time.
Waterproofing is essential in some bathroom renovations to prevent moisture damage, leaks, and mould growth. New Zealand’s Building Code Clause E3 (Internal Moisture) sets strict requirements for waterproofing in wet areas, ensuring surfaces remain dry and durable.
Proper ventilation is key to maintaining a healthy bathroom environment. Without it, moisture buildup can cause mould growth, unpleasant odours, and long-term damage to walls and ceilings.
To comply with Building Code Clause G4 (Ventilation), bathrooms must have adequate airflow, which can be achieved by venting an extractor fan outside the home.
Important: Fans that release moisture into the roof cavity can create hidden damp issues, so ensuring correct installation is crucial. If you can install a window or passive ventilation, it can further improve airflow and keep your bathroom fresh and dry.
Bathroom plumbing must be designed to handle daily use while complying with New Zealand’s Building Code. Any work involving water supply or drainage should be carried out by a licensed plumber to ensure it meets safety and efficiency standards.
If you’re renovating an older home, upgrading outdated pipes is a smart investment to prevent leaks and potential water damage. Proper drainage is also essential to avoid water pooling, which can cause long-term issues.
Consulting a professional plumber early in the planning stage can help streamline the process and prevent unexpected setbacks.
Electrical work in a bathroom requires careful planning to ensure safety and compliance with AS/NZS 3000 (Electrical Wiring Rules). Since moisture and electricity are a dangerous combination, it’s essential to hire a registered electrician for any installations, including but not limited to:
Electrical fittings in bathrooms must also be rated for wet areas to prevent hazards. If your renovation involves moving or adding new fixtures, discuss your electrical needs with a professional early on to avoid costly changes later. We work with great electrician’s that we can refer you too or we could include in the quote process.
The right materials make a big difference in how your bathroom holds up. Choose moisture-resistant materials such as:
Please remember, affordable doesn’t mean it’s the best option. Cheap and poorly made materials may lead to frequent repairs—invest in quality products from trusted plumbing merchants like Plumbing World and Elite Bathroomware.
We have tons of booklets in our office, which you can look at, or Chris can deliver one during a consultation.
Renovation can create a significant amount of waste, and proper disposal is crucial for environmental and legal reasons.
We can help arrange proper disposal through council-approved services or professional waste disposal companies. Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting Ltd works with the right people to make sure it’s all handled correctly.
If your home contains asbestos-containing material (ACM), specialist removal is required to meet safety regulations and prevent health risks. Working with experienced tradespeople who follow proper disposal practices ensures that your renovation is safe and compliant with local regulations.
Planning your budget prevents unexpected costs.
You need to factor in the following:
If you're doing a full reno, it’s often worth upgrading old pipes now—cheaper than fixing a leak behind your new tiles later! Matthews Plumbing and Gasfitting can help you plan for the knowns and the maybes.
Inspections help ensure your renovation is safe and up to code. During the project, various inspections may be required for plumbing, electrical work, and structural changes.
Auckland Council will assess compliance before issuing a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC), confirming that the renovation has been completed according to regulations.
A well-planned timeline keeps the renovation on track.
To keep things within your desired timetable, you need to consider lead times for the following:
We will work with you to develop a feasible schedule that minimises disruptions. Remember that unforeseen problems, such as structural issues, can arise and extend the timeline, so make sure that your plan is adaptable.
A good contract protects both homeowners and contractors. It should detail the following:
Further, important documentation such as permits, warranties, compliance certificates, and receipts should be retained. Proper documentation is valuable for future repairs or renovations, potential insurance claims, and maintaining or improving resale value.
