From the RB Thomas blog
News & Tips
Practical advice on building, renovating and renting in the Waikato — straight from the team.
All articles
27 articles
16 February 2026
Future-Proofing Your Home: 5 Smart Ways to Make Your Renovation More Accessible
You might hear builders talk about “Universal Design” or “accessible design” and assume it’s only for people with disabilities. But the idea is much simpler
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22 January 2026
New Year, New Flow: 3 Small Layout Tweaks That Change Everything
We’ve all been there. You love your home, but there’s that one part of it that just doesn’t work. Maybe it’s the "kitchen dance" you have to do to get past
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16 December 2025
Top 7 Renovations That Add Real Value to Your Home
If you’re like most Kiwi homeowners, you don’t just want a pretty home - you want the money you put into it to come back out when you sell. The tricky bit?
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21 July 2025
How to Care for Timber Joinery
Protecting Your Wooden Windows & Doors for Years to Come
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21 July 2025
What to Do If I’m Not Happy With the Quality of the Work
A Homeowner’s Guide to Handling Construction Concerns in NZ
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21 July 2025
What’s the Cheapest Way to Build a House in NZ?
Smart, Affordable Building Solutions for Budget-Conscious Kiwis
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21 July 2025
Stop the Rot: Expert Leaky Building & Rot Repair by RB Thomas Ltd
Rot. Leaks. Hidden damage. They’re three words no homeowner wants to hear — but when they do show up, you want an expert on your side who’s been there, done
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21 July 2025
Unlock the Value in Your Backyard: Subdivide Your Section with RB Thomas
Have a large section? You could be sitting on a goldmine.
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14 July 2025
10 Things You Should Consider When Choosing a Builder in NZ
Picking a builder can feel a bit like dating—you want someone honest, reliable, good at what they do, and who actually listens. Whether you're building new or
Read14 July 2025
What Insurance Do You Need for a New Build or Renovation in NZ?
Whether you're building a new home or renovating your current one, insurance is one of those things that can save your bacon if things go sideways. And trust
Read14 July 2025
What Renovations Require Building Consent in New Zealand?
Thinking about a reno? Let’s tackle the most googled question in Aotearoa: what renovations need a building consent?
Read14 July 2025
Asbestos in NZ – What You Need to Know Before You Start Ripping Things Out
If you're renovating or working on an older home or building here in Aotearoa, there's one thing you definitely want to keep in mind: asbestos. It was
Read14 July 2025
Can I Remove Asbestos Myself in New Zealand?
Short answer: sometimes. But it’s not as simple as chucking on a dust mask and going for it.
Read23 June 2025
Independent Builders — For Independent Thinkers
Then why would you live in the same house as your neighbour?
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23 June 2025
Healthy Homes Standards: What Every Landlord Needs to Know Before July 2025
If you’re a landlord in New Zealand, there’s a big date coming up — 1 July 2025. That’s the final deadline for all rental properties to meet the Healthy Homes
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23 June 2025
What Does It Really Cost to Heat a Kiwi Home?
Heating your home in NZ? The cost can vary wildly — and it’s not just about what heater you buy. Location, house design, and lifestyle all play a major role.
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23 June 2025
Building vs Resource Consent: What Every Kiwi Homeowner Should Know
If you're planning a renovation, extension, or new build on your property, you’ve probably heard terms like building consent and resource consent thrown
Read23 June 2025
86% of New Homeowners Call Their Builder Back. Here’s Why.
Many “home building” companies are run by sales teams, not tradespeople.
Read30 May 2025
Do I need building consent?
Do I Need a Building Consent for My Project?
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30 May 2025
How customizable are your plans?
Customisable Home Plans: Building Your Way with RB Thomas LTD
Read30 May 2025
Building a Granny flat is about to get easier...
Keen to Build a Granny Flat? It’s About to Get a Whole Lot Easier
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5 May 2025
How soon can we start building?
How Soon Can You Start Building Your New Home? Here’s What to Expect
Read5 May 2025
What is included in the price?
The price of a typical new build home in New Zealand generally includes several key components—though what's included can vary significantly depending on
Read5 May 2025
What materials will be most energy efficient?
How to Build a Warmer, More Efficient Home: A Homeowner’s Guide to Energy-Smart Materials in New Zealand
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1 May 2025
How long does it take to build a new house in New Zealand?
How Long Does It Take to Build a House in New Zealand?
Read1 May 2025
What is your warranty like?
What is your warranty like?
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