If you want to convert a garage or shed into a sleepout or other dwelling, there are a few regulations you need to comply with. In some cases, resource consent may be necessary as well as building consent.  Please contact us for further information.

Building requirements

• An application for a building consent and the deposit fee
• Two sets of scaled, detailed plans including a floor plan (1:50), elevations (1:100), cross-section (1:50), drainage and site plan (1:200)
• Two sets of comprehensive specifications, including wall bracing calculations
• Polythene must be installed under the floor. An excavation of part of the foundation and floor slab is required to confirm that a polythene vapour barrier is in place
• The concrete floor height should be a minimum of 225 mm above adjacent clear ground level
• Building paper is to be installed between the timber framing and exterior cladding
• The building is required to have a separate bathroom, toilet, laundry and kitchen (these can be free-standing)
• Sufficient opening and fixed windows are to provide adequate light and ventilation
• Walls and ceiling require insulation and lining
• Ceiling trusses are to be spaced at no greater than 1.2 max. centres and be of adequate design to support the ceiling lining materials.

Note: If the garage/shed was specifically designed by a structural engineer, the design will have to be reviewed against the residential loadings code.