Everything you need to know before hiring a tradie or starting a project — licensing checks, consent rules, and real NZ pricing.
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.
Hiring guideCheck their licence, understand what to pay ($95–$140/hr), get 3 quotes, and know your rights.
Hiring guideEWRB check, what to ask, red flags, what restricted work costs, and how to get a fair quote.
Hiring guideKnow 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.
Consent guide2026 prices for 135L, 180L and 250L cylinders — electric, heat pump, and wetback, including supply and install.
Cost guidePost your job free and get quotes from licensed tradespeople in your area.
Planning a bigger project, or want to know what you can legally do yourself? Check out our other homeowner hubs.
The full library — cost guides, tradie hiring tips, and project planning articles for NZ homeowners.
HubKnow exactly what you can legally do yourself — and what requires a licensed tradie.
HubTimelines, trade sequencing, and budgets for bathroom, kitchen and extension renovations.
Hub