🔌 What Can You Legally DIY in NZ?

Electrical, Plumbing & Building Rules You Need to Know

If you’re a hands-on homeowner or renter, DIY can save serious money. But in New Zealand, not everything is legal to do yourself — especially when it comes to plumbing, electrical work, and structural changes.

This guide breaks down what you can do, what needs a licensed tradie, and what could land you in trouble if done wrong.

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⚡ What Electrical Work Can You Do Yourself?

The rule: You can only do very basic electrical work.

✅ Legal DIY jobs:

• Changing light bulbs or LED strips
• Replacing light fittings (only if there’s no wiring change)
• Installing battery-powered devices (e.g. smoke alarms, security cameras)
• Using plug-in appliances or smart plugs

🚫 Not legal:

• Wiring new sockets
• Replacing switches
• Altering fuse boxes or switchboards
• Installing downlights or ceiling fans

Always hire a licensed electrician for anything wired into the mains.

🧰 Check them here: EWRB Register

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🚿 What Plumbing Work Can You DIY?

NZ plumbing law is strict — most jobs require a registered professional.

✅ Legal DIY jobs:

• Changing tap washers or cartridges
• Replacing shower heads
• Installing washing machines or dishwashers if hoses just screw on
• Connecting a fridge to a water source if using existing fittings

🚫 Not legal:

• Running new pipes
• Moving sinks or toilets
• Connecting gas appliances
• Installing new drains

📋 Use the PGDB Register to check if a plumber or gasfitter is certified.

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🧱 What About Building or Renovation Work?

This is where it gets murky. Some work is exempt under Schedule 1 of the Building Act — but not all.

✅ Likely OK to DIY:

• Painting, tiling, or plastering
• Putting up shelving (not load-bearing)
• Building a deck under 1.5m high
• Installing kitchen cabinets (non-structural)
• Building a garden shed under 10m² (with some rules)

🚫 Not OK without help:

• Removing or altering structural walls
• Changing roof lines
• Building a deck over 1.5m
• Anything involving weathertightness (cladding, windows, roofing)

🔍 Check with your council — even “minor” work may need consent.

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❌ What Happens If You Get It Wrong?

• Your insurance may not cover damage from unlicensed work
• You could be fined
• You may not get a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
• It could stop you selling your house

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🧠 Final Tip

If you’re ever unsure, here’s your rule of thumb:

If it plugs in, paints over, or screws together — it’s probably fine.
If it wires in, drains out, or holds up the roof — hire a pro.