Thinking about renovating? Things could get a little easier.

If you've ever looked into doing some work around the house, you'll know that sometimes the paperwork and consent requirements can feel almost as complicated as the renovation itself!

Well, the Government is looking at whether some of those rules could be made a little simpler.

The Ministry for Regulation has announced a review of building and construction rules, with a particular focus on whether homeowners are facing unnecessary costs and delays for smaller projects.

The idea is that low-risk home improvements shouldn't necessarily have to jump through the same hoops as larger, more complex building projects.

Some of the examples being considered include installing new windows, upgrading bathrooms, insulating external walls and building garages.

One example raised by the Government is garage construction. Currently, a single garage of up to 30 square metres can be built without consent in certain circumstances, but a standard 36-square-metre double garage requires consent.

The review will look at whether some of these rules could be expanded or made easier to understand. It's also looking at whether experienced professionals should have more flexibility when carrying out certain types of work.

So, will this mean you can renovate without consent? Not just yet!

The Government is currently consulting with homeowners, builders, councils and industry groups to find out where the existing rules could be improved. Recommendations are expected to go back to ministers in early 2027.

Importantly, no changes have been confirmed, so if you're planning any building work, you'll still need to check what consent requirements apply to your project.

If the rules do change, it could make some home improvements cheaper and easier to get underway.

Whether you're looking at a new bathroom, adding a garage or finally getting around to that renovation you've been talking about for years, it's worth thinking about how you'll fund the work.

There are a few different ways you might be able to use your existing mortgage or arrange additional lending, depending on your circumstances.

The important thing is understanding what the extra borrowing will mean for your repayments and your household budget.

If you've got a renovation in mind and aren't sure how you might pay for it, let's have a chat. We can look at the options and work out what might be possible before you get the builders in!