NZ Homeowner Guides

Everything you need to know before hiring a tradie or starting a project — licensing checks, consent rules, and real NZ pricing.

Hiring a Tradie

Know what to check before you hand over a deposit — licence numbers, quotes, and the red flags that separate a good tradie from a bad one.

Check the LBP register, understand building consent, compare quotes, and avoid common mistakes.

Check their licence, understand what to pay ($95–$140/hr), get 3 quotes, and know your rights.

EWRB check, what to ask, red flags, what restricted work costs, and how to get a fair quote.

Know before you start — what needs council sign-off, and what real NZ projects actually cost.

When you need a consent, what it costs ($1,200–$3,500+), how long it takes, and what happens if you build without one.

2026 prices for 135L, 180L and 250L cylinders — electric, heat pump, and wetback, including supply and install.

Post your job free and get quotes from licensed tradespeople in your area.

Post a Job Free →

Planning a bigger project, or want to know what you can legally do yourself? Check out our other homeowner hubs.