Small / Second Homes

Overview

Small / Second Homes are subdividable, have no maximum size (provided they comply) and require a minimum floor area of 30m2.

They can be built within, connected, or separate from an existing home, and even on top of a garage. There are no minimum land areas required provided the design complies with the relevant planning rules.

Services can be connected via the existing home, but if subdividing they must all be separated for title to be allowed.

It is important to note that subdivision is not a requirement for building a Small / Second Home. This often makes a project more economically feasible as you could save over $100,000 from the total budget by not subdividing.

Find out what you can do on your site.

Request Free Site Assement

Guidelines

Under the Auckland Unitary plan, Small / Second Homes could only be built in the following zones: mixed housing urban, mixed housing residential and terraced housing & apartment.

Since the introduction of the Government's Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS), Small / Second Homes are allowed in most residential zones - subject to compliance with development standards. Up to three homes (or more with resource consent) may now be permitted.

The MDRS rules differ and take precedence over the Auckland Unitary Plan. However, if a specific property is subject to a qualifying matter under the Auckland Unitary Plan (e.g. an overlay such as Special Heritage Character Area), the MDRS rules do not apply.

These rules and decisions are constantly evolving which is why for more complicated sites we recommend obtaining a registered town planners report.

A Loft Home like this double storey build in Milford, provides extra income on a small footprint.

Our projects are customised to achieve our clients goals.

Loft Homes and Garages are highly experienced with a proven track record of designing and building affordable, or highly bespoke Small / Second Homes.

Total projects can start from as little as $295,000 dependent on site conditions and design.

We create personalised solutions to meet our client’s needs. See below some examples of our previous builds.