Bottom line
The evidence package is where the CoA case becomes clear or weak.
Council can only assess completed work that is described, documented and supported. A clear package helps separate known evidence from hidden or uncertain work.
CoA application and evidence package support.
A Certificate of Acceptance package needs to explain what work is being covered, what can be verified, and what evidence supports the completed work.
Form 8 supportEvidence scheduleAs-built drawingsConsultant coordination
Best fit
Who this page is for.
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.
Owners who already know they need a Certificate of Acceptance.
Completed work with some records, photos, invoices or product information available.
Projects needing a clearer package before council assessment.
What may be included
The information council may need to understand.
CoA application information and project description.
As-built architectural drawings where needed.
Photographic and documentary evidence schedule.
Product information, invoices, installer records or producer statements where available.
Consultant report coordination for engineering, drainage, fire, waterproofing or other specialist evidence.
A clear scope statement identifying what the application covers.
Council assessment
What usually drives the CoA risk.
| Issue | What to clarify | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Application scope | What the CoA application covers and what it does not cover. | Unclear scope can lead to delays, RFIs or rejected assumptions. |
| Evidence trail | Photos, documents, invoices, product data, inspections and professional reports. | Council needs evidence that supports the completed work. |
| Hidden work | Parts of the work that cannot be seen or verified without opening up. | Hidden work may be qualified, excluded or require further investigation. |
| Specialist reports | Engineering, fire, drainage, waterproofing or building surveyor input. | Architectural drawings alone may not verify technical performance. |
Process
A practical path through this CoA issue.
1
Review records
We review photos, property file information, LIM notes, owner details, invoices, drawings or council correspondence.
2
Define the scope
We separate what appears to be covered by the CoA question from work that may belong on another pathway.
3
Identify evidence gaps
We identify likely as-built drawings, specialist reports, photos, opening-up or product evidence that may be needed.
4
Prepare next steps
We help organise the documentation pathway before you spend money on the wrong report or application.
Related resources
Keep the wider CoA context close.
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
Need a different route?
Certificate of Acceptance GuideFor the full explanation of CoA rules, evidence, costs, timeframes and possible outcomes.CoA Feasibility CheckFor a quick starting point when you are unsure whether completed work may fit a CoA pathway.Council SupportFor CCC problems, failed inspections, RFIs, Notices to Fix and old consents that were not signed off.Building Consent ServicesFor proposed work before construction starts.
FAQs
Questions homeowners ask first.
Can council accept all completed work through a CoA?+
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.
Is a CoA the same as a building consent?+
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.
What should I send first?+
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.
Do I need all reports before starting?+
Not always. It is often better to identify likely evidence gaps first, then commission the reports that actually fit the scope.
Official references
Useful official CoA sources.
These references help explain why evidence, scope and verification limits matter.
Ready to prepare a CoA evidence package?
Send the completed work description, photos, records and any council notes. We can help organise the information into a clearer pathway.