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Check if you need to apply or order before Friday 19 December 2025.
An on-site building inspector can approve minor variations.
E tono mō tētahi panonitanga iti noa nei ki tō whakaaetanga hanga whare Apply for a minor variation to your building consent
Do not start the minor variation work before it is approved by the on-site building inspector.
Check if you need to apply for a minor variation
This information is aimed at builders, designers and project managers.
It assumes a knowledge and understanding of the Building Act 2004 (the Act) and its requirements that most homeowner applicants will not have.
Work must be minor in nature and not affect compliance with the building code. Minor variations must be applied for and approved before the work can proceed
Examples of a minor variation are:
- substituting one internal lining for a similar internal lining
- substituting the type of timber treatment
- minor wall bracing changes
- a change to a component (for example, fixing bracket)
- a construction change (for example, the framing method around a window when the window is changed to a door)
- changing a room's layout (for example, the position of fixtures in a bathroom or kitchen)
- changing one brand of insulation for another
- building work described in schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004.
In some cases, plans will need to accompany the application form (two copies). View the guide on the Building Performance website for more information.
Talk to your building inspector if you are unsure about whether an amendment (major variation) or a minor variation is required.
Application fee
There is no fee for a minor variation.
How to apply for a minor variation
- Fill in the application form.
- Ensure you have all necessary paperwork for the proposed change.
- Book a site meeting so the building inspector has enough time to assess the minor variation on-site.
- Have two copies of your application for the on-site building inspector; one in digital form and the other in hard copy.
- Give the completed application, including all accompanying documents, to the on-site building inspector. These documents must be legible.
Get the application form
What happens next
The on-site building inspector will decide whether to issue you with approval to proceed with the works as a minor variation, or you need to apply for an amendment (major variation).
The inspector can approve the minor variation on-site or can do so remotely if the decision cannot be made immediately.
All changes must be approved before work proceeds.