By Rachael Ayling, Licensed Real Estate Salesperson & Kathryn Campbell, Sales Manager & Licensed Real Estate Salesperson

There’s a hidden issue impacting many Upper Hutt properties that owners often don’t find out about until it’s too late.  This is especially common in homes which were built, or work was completed, between 1991 and 2005. 

It’s the missing Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) and without it, you may not be able to rent the home, sell it easily, or secure finance.

Two Common Scenarios

1. Homes Built Through House-and-Land Packages
There were many homes built between 1991 and 2005 in Upper Hutt as part of house-and-land packages. Everything was completed, the home was built, connected, and ready to live in. But during this time, building rules changed. CCCs became mandatory under the Building Act 1991, but enforcement and buyer checks were less strict until 2005, meaning many properties slipped through. What’s more, many of these homes have already been sold once or twice, and the missing CCC wasn’t picked up at the time. It’s only in recent years, thanks to stricter lending and insurance checks, that the issue is being caught.

2. Standalone Garages Without Final Sign-Off
Another common example is standalone garages added to existing properties around the same time. For instance, a 1950s house might have had a Versatile garage built in 1999. Consent may have been granted, the garage was built, but again, the final Council sign-off (CCC) was never obtained.

Why This Matters

• You may not be able to rent out a property without a CCC as all rental properties must meet legal and healthy homes requirements.
• Banks are unlikely to lend on homes with consent issues, especially for first-home buyers with under 20% deposit.
• Insurance may be limited or declined without proper certification.
• Sales can fall over or be delayed when this comes up late in the process.

What Should You Do?

Missing permits, consents or CCCs can significantly affect the sale of a property.

You can order your property records from Upper Hutt City Council to check whether any building work is missing its final approval or supporting documentation.

Although these issues can often be resolved, the process may require inspections, paperwork and additional costs. It can also take several months. A building surveyor may be able to inspect the property, prepare the required information and work with Council on your behalf.

Don’t leave it until you’re ready to sell or rent the property. Identifying and dealing with any issues early can save a lot of stress later.

Rachael Ayling and Kathryn Campbell have worked together for many years, helping Upper Hutt homeowners understand common consent issues and prepare their properties for sale. If you’re unsure where to begin, they’re happy to point you in the right direction.

Contact Details

Rachael Ayling
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
M: 021 0230 8357
E: rachael@markre.co.nz

Kathryn Campbell
Sales Manager & Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
M: 027 756 2615
E: kathryn@markre.co.nz

Professionals Real Estate

About This Monthly Feature

Each month, Rachael and Kathryn will share practical information about common issues affecting Upper Hutt homes. Upcoming topics will cover areas such as roofing, cladding, piles, plumbing, drainage, moisture, building consents and other matters local homeowners and buyers should be aware of.

A “thank you” to Rachael Ayling and Kathryn Campbell for sending this article to The Upper Hutt Connection.

09/09/26