Small standalone homes get new building rules
New rules cover exemptions for small standalone dwellings.
Building (Exempt Small Stand-alone Dwellings) Order 2026
What's changing
- Small stand-alone dwellings may use a certified composite structural building product instead of a separate steel or timber frame.
- The rules will distinguish between new and existing on-site systems, such as wastewater systems.
- An existing on-site system must meet the building code.
- A new on-site system will be required in some situations instead of an existing one.
- Certified composite products must meet set certification, material and building-use requirements.
Who's affected
People building small stand-alone dwellings that do not need building consent, and people using new or existing on-site systems for them, are affected.
When
The changes take effect on 8 October 2026.
What you might need to do
- Check whether your dwelling uses a certified composite structural building product.
- Work out whether the site has a new or existing on-site system.
- If using an existing on-site system, ensure it meets the building code.
Background
The government says the order updates the requirements for small stand-alone dwellings that do not need building consent. It says the changes allow certified composite structural products and set different rules for new and existing on-site systems.