Top tips for anyone considering building this yearSTUFF A great deal of energy efficiency can be achieved through simple solutions like sun-conscious section choice and building orientation, and fitting quality insulation. Builders need consent on a large proportion of building materials they use, and obtaining sign-off on overseas materials is considerably more complex, and can delay the building process significantly. It's important to ask a builder about their trade qualifications, not just to know that they are a licensed building practitioner (LBP). NZCB is the only building trade association in the country which requires all of its members to hold a formal trade qualification in order to be eligible for membership. Similarly, it appears that Kiwis are generally still pretty passive when it comes to ensuring there's a good guarantee in place for the building work they're investing in.

Source: Stuff March 26, 2018 06:22 UTC