What is a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) in NZ?
Understanding Code Compliance Certificates in New Zealand. When you need one, how to apply, what happens if you do not get one, and the difference between CCC and consent.
A Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) is the final step in the building consent process. It is your council's confirmation that the building work complies with the Building Code and the approved building consent. Without a CCC, your building work is technically not signed off — and that can cause problems when you sell or insure your property.
What is a CCC?
A Code Compliance Certificate is a formal statement from your council's Building Consent Authority (BCA) confirming that the completed building work complies with the building consent that was granted. It means the council is satisfied, based on inspections and documentation, that the work meets the NZ Building Code requirements specified in the consent. Think of it as the final tick of approval.
When Do You Need a CCC?
You need a CCC for all building work that required a building consent. This includes new builds, renovations, extensions, re-roofing (when consent was required), retaining walls, and any other consented work. You must apply for a CCC within 2 years of the consent being issued (or within any extended time granted by the council). If you do not apply in time, the consent may lapse.
How to Apply for a CCC
To apply for a CCC, you typically need: a completed application form, Records of Work from all LBPs who did restricted building work, producer statements (PS3 for construction review, PS4 for construction observation) from engineers and designers where required, test results and certificates (electrical safety certificates, gasfitting certificates, plumbing certificates), and as-built plans if the work deviated from the approved consent drawings. Your builder should help gather this documentation.
What Happens Without a CCC?
Not having a CCC for consented work can cause several problems: when selling, the buyer's solicitor and their bank will identify the missing CCC, potentially reducing the sale price or preventing the sale. Insurance companies may decline claims related to unconsented or uncertified work. The council can issue a notice to fix requiring you to obtain a CCC. And the building work remains technically non-compliant until a CCC is issued.
CCC vs Certificate of Acceptance
A Certificate of Acceptance (COA) is different from a CCC. A COA is issued for building work that was done without a building consent (either illegally or in emergency situations). The council assesses the work as-built and determines if it is compliant, but they cannot confirm compliance with the same certainty as a CCC because they did not inspect during construction. A COA is more expensive and less desirable than a CCC, but it regularises unconsented work.
Key Takeaways
- A CCC confirms your building work complies with the Building Code and consent
- You must apply for a CCC within 2 years of the consent being issued
- Without a CCC, you may have problems selling, insuring, or refinancing
- Your builder should help gather Records of Work and documentation for the CCC
- A Certificate of Acceptance is the alternative for work done without consent
Frequently Asked Questions
Councils have a statutory timeframe of 20 working days to issue a CCC once all required information is provided. In practice, delays often occur because of missing documentation (Records of Work, certificates, as-built plans). Having all documentation ready when you apply speeds up the process significantly.