Some council services will be unavailable over the Christmas and New Year break.
Check if you need to apply or order before Friday 19 December 2025.
If you are unhappy with our decision on you consent or your problem has not been resolved, you can make a formal complaint.
If your complaint has not been resolved to your satisfaction through our complaints process, then you can complain about a building consent authority through the MBIE.
If no one can agree on whether building work complies with the Building Code or we make a This decision you disagree with, you may be able to apply for a determination.
A determination is a legally binding ruling made by MBIE.
Determinations can look at whether a building or building work complies with the Building Code. They can apply to building work that is planned, partly done or complete.
MBIE takes a detailed look at the specific matter and makes a legally binding decision. The law that covers determinations is set out in the Building Act 2004 (sections 176-190).
A determination can be appealed to the District Court.
visit the MBIE website for information about determinations.
You can also read about previous determinations. Some of them might be about a situation like yours.