When original consent drawings are missing or the built work does not match records, as-built drawings help document what exists so the CoA package has a clear architectural base.
Bottom line
For CoA work, drawings need to separate visible facts from assumptions. They may support consultant review, evidence schedules and council assessment, but they do not prove hidden work by themselves.
Best fit
Use this pathway when the situation matches the points on the right. If the work is proposed rather than completed, start with Building Consent Services instead.
Unconsented rooms, decks, additions, conversions or wet areas.
Property-sale issues where drawings are missing or incomplete.
Applications needing a clearer technical base for consultants and council.
What may be included
Existing and as-built floor plans.
Elevations and sections where relevant.
Scope diagrams showing the affected area.
Construction notes based on visible or evidenced work.
Details required for consultant review.
Coordination notes showing what remains uncertain or needs specialist evidence.
Council assessment
| Issue | What to clarify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Measured layouts, visible construction and available records. | Council and consultants need a reliable base for assessment. |
| Assumptions | Where construction cannot be confirmed from visible evidence. | Assumptions should not be presented as verified facts. |
| Affected area | The parts of the building connected to the CoA scope. | A CoA should clearly identify what work is being assessed. |
| Consultant use | Drawings that engineers, drainlayers, fire consultants or surveyors can review. | Specialists often need clear as-built information before writing reports. |
Process
We review photos, property file information, LIM notes, owner details, invoices, drawings or council correspondence.
We separate what appears to be covered by the CoA question from work that may belong on another pathway.
We identify likely as-built drawings, specialist reports, photos, opening-up or product evidence that may be needed.
We help organise the documentation pathway before you spend money on the wrong report or application.
Related resources
The guide explains the rules in plain English, while the free tool helps you check whether the issue appears suitable for a CoA pathway before spending on reports.
Related pathways
FAQs
No. Council can only assess what can reasonably be verified after the work is complete. Hidden work may need opening up, specialist reports, remedial work or may be excluded.
No. A building consent is for proposed work before construction. A Certificate of Acceptance is a limited pathway for certain completed work that was carried out without the required consent.
Send photos, your address, a short description of the work, any council letters, LIM notes, property file information, invoices, drawings or reports you already have.
No. They can document visible and evidenced work, but hidden construction may still need opening up, specialist reports or may remain uncertain.
Official references
These references help explain why evidence, scope and verification limits matter.
Send photos, old plans, council records and a description of the completed work. We can help identify the drawing scope.
