Construction Process of a New Build Townhouse

So you've got an off-the-plan townhouse under contract - Congratulations! But now what? It's essential to understand the construction process involved in an off-the-plan townhouse. While the exact process varies depending on the builder, location, design, and other factors, here is a general overview of what you can expect during the construction of your new townhouse.

Resource and Building Consents

A crucial aspect of the construction process is obtaining resource and building consents. These consents are required by law in NZ and are necessary to ensure that the construction is safe and complies with all relevant regulations and building codes. The resource consent ensures that the proposed use of the land is appropriate, and the building consent ensures that the building plans meet all necessary standards and requirements. Most of the time when you buy an off-the-plans townhouse, resource consent will already be approved. Obtaining these consents from the council can be a lengthy and time-consuming process.

Site Preparation and Foundation

Once the project has obtained the necessary consents, the first construction step is site preparation. This includes clearing the site, grading the land, and excavating for the foundation. This also includes any civil works such as wastewater systems. If the site requires any retaining walls, they will usually be done at this stage. Once the site is ready, the builders will pour the foundations for the townhouse development. In NZ, the most common type of foundation is a concrete slab, which is poured directly onto the ground.

Framing and Roofing

Once the foundation is in place, the next stage is typically framing. This involves constructing and installing the walls, usually using timber or steel beams. Once the framing is complete, builders will install the roofs, typically using either tiles or steel roofing.

Electrical, Plumbing, and Insulation

With the framing and roofing in place, electricians and plumbers will then be able to install the required electrical and plumbing systems in the townhouses. This includes wiring for lighting, power outlets, and appliances, as well as plumbing for the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry. Insulation will also be installed at this point to ensure that the townhouse is energy-efficient and comfortable. Insulation is also a legal requirement in any new home builds in NZ.

Interior and Exterior Finishing

Once the electrical, plumbing, and insulation systems are in place, the builders will begin the finishing process. This includes installing gib, painting, and flooring. The builder will also install fixtures and fittings, such as kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, and light fixtures. Exterior finishing includes painting or cladding the exterior walls, installing doors and windows, and landscaping the surrounding area. Any landscaping is often done in the final fit-off stages as well.

Final Inspection and CCC

Once the construction is complete, the Council will conduct their final inspection of the development to ensure that it meets all the necessary building codes and standards. If any issues are identified, they will be addressed at this stage. Once the final inspection has passed, the developers can then apply for a CCC (Code of Compliance Certificate). This can take 4 weeks or more to be processed and granted by the council.

Handovers (Settlement)

This is the most exciting part for you as a buyer. Once the CCC has been granted from the Council, settlement typically occurs 10 days later. This is when the keys are handed over to you, the property will be put under your name, and you can move in! It's important to make sure your finances are in order before this stage, so that you don't have any issues with your finance when settlement comes around.
The SM Property team works with several developers to be able to bring you a range of options to suit your individual needs. To chat with the team about your options, click here. Make sure to visit our other Blogs and our Instagram for more tips and tricks about home buying and new build property in NZ!