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 everywhere from the 1930s right through to the 1980s, and while it did the job for fireproofing and insulation back in the day, we now know it’s seriously dangerous […]
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. Asbestos is still lurking in a lot of Kiwi homes and buildings—especially anything built or renovated before the mid-1980s. And while some smaller jobs can legally be done DIY, you need to know the rules before you […]
Independent Builders — For Independent Thinkers
Build a Unique Home with an Independent NZ Builder Are you an individual? Do you like things that other people don’t have? Things they can’t have? Then why would you live in the same house as your neighbour? The same cookie-cutter design franchises build hundreds of, year in and year out — duplicated street to street, town to […]
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 Standards. Whether you’ve got one rental or a small portfolio, this isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about creating warmer, drier homes that protect your investment and […]
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. Here’s the full picture Heating Types & Running Costs Heat Pumps Most efficient: 3–5kW of heat per 1kW of power Cost: ~26c per kWh of heat Ideal for regular use in […]
What does it cost to build a new home in New Zealand today?
Building your dream home in New Zealand is a major milestone—but also a significant financial commitment. With building costs rising and regional variations across the country, it’s important to understand where your money goes and how to keep your project on budget. Whether you’re planning a compact first home or a sprawling architectural build, this […]
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 around. But what do they really mean, and which one do you need? Understanding the difference is crucial to avoid delays, fines—or worse, having to undo your hard work. Here’s a breakdown […]
86% of New Homeowners Call Their Builder Back. Here’s Why.
A recent NZ Herald article shared a shocking stat: 86% of new homes in NZ have defects. Why? Because the building industry has been taken over by salespeople — not actual builders. What Most Kiwis Don’t Know: Many “home building” companies are run by sales teams, not tradespeople. Once you sign a contract, they find a builder later, offer […]
Do I need building consent?
Do I Need a Building Consent for My Project? If you’re thinking about doing some work on your home — whether it’s a full renovation, building a sleepout, or putting in a new deck — one of the first questions you should ask is: “Do I need a building consent?” The short answer? It depends. […]
How customizable are your plans?
Customisable Home Plans: Building Your Way with RB Thomas LTD At RB Thomas LTD, we know no two families — or homes — are the same. That’s why we offer fully customisable home plans and the option to design your dream home from the ground up. Whether you’ve got a clear vision or just a […]
