Familiarize yourself with the New Zealand Building Code and local regulations. The Building Act 2004 and associated documents outline the requirements for construction work, including renovations. Check if your renovation project requires a building/resource consent. This is necessary for certain alterations, especially if they impact the external appearance of the building. More information can be found on the Auckland Council website.
Carefully plan the layout and design of your bathroom. Consider the placement of fixtures, storage, ventilation, and lighting. Accessibility and functionality should be prioritized. Also do you require a portable bathroom during the renovation?
Engage licensed and qualified professionals for plumbing, electrical and building work. In New Zealand, only licensed practitioners can carry out certain types of work, and they must provide a Certificate of Compliance upon completion.
Ensure proper waterproofing to prevent moisture-related issues. The New Zealand Building Code has specific requirements for waterproofing in wet areas like bathrooms.
Adequate ventilation is crucial to prevent mold and maintain indoor air quality. Install an extractor fan that complies with the ventilation requirements outlined in the building code.
Comply with the standards for plumbing and drainage systems. Use licensed plumbers for installations and ensure that the work aligns with the New Zealand Building Code.
Follow electrical safety regulations and hire a licensed electrician for any electrical work. Ensure that the design and installation meet New Zealand Electrical Code requirements.
Choose materials and finishes that are suitable for a bathroom environment. Things to consider durability, water resistance, and easy maintenance. Please remember - cheap is not always best as it could mean servicing and repairs later down the track could cost more. We recommend getting gear from reputable Plumbing Merchants - eg: Plumbing World, Franklins etc - We have a lot of booklets in our office you can collect or Chris can drop off while providing a quotation.
Dispose of construction waste responsibly. This may require specialist removal depending if there is asbestos containing material (ACM).
Plan your budget carefully, considering not only the cost of materials and labor but also potential unforeseen expenses. We do recommend replacing old pipes in the walls if completing full renovations (just think if a pipe burst behind your new tiles, it would cost more than replacing pipes while the walls are open).
Schedule inspections at key stages of the renovation to ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. This may include inspections for plumbing, electrical work, and overall building compliance.
Develop a realistic timeline for the renovation. Consider factors such as lead times for materials, scheduling tradespeople, and potential delays due to unforeseen issues.
If working with contractors, ensure there is a clear and comprehensive contract outlining responsibilities, timelines, and payment terms. Keep all documentation related to the project for future reference.
