Renovating, Extending or Building New? Let's Make it Happen!

Homeowner Support

Frequently Asked Questions.

Direct answers to common early questions about residential projects, planning and what may come next.

Homeowners reviewing a residential plan with an independent adviser

GENERAL PROJECT QUESTIONS

Useful answers before every detail is fixed.

Start here for broader company and project questions. More detailed answers remain in the relevant service and planning guides.

What types of building projects does Neda Builda take on?

Neda Builda works across new builds, renovations, extensions and a range of associated residential improvement projects including kitchens, bathrooms, recladding, outdoor living and retaining work. The right starting point depends on the property, the outcome you want and how far your planning has progressed.

When should I contact Neda Builda about my project?

You do not need to wait until every detail is resolved. An early conversation can help clarify what information you already have, what may still be needed and which planning or construction pathway makes sense before you commit too far.

Do I need plans or drawings before getting in touch?

No. Some homeowners approach Neda Builda with developed plans, while others are still working through the idea. The important thing is being able to explain the outcome you are trying to achieve. Planning and design requirements can then be identified as the project becomes clearer.

Can Neda Builda help with design and building consent?

Neda Builda's primary role is construction delivery. Where planning, design, drafting, architectural work or council consent support is required, Stable Group can independently assist with those stages, allowing the responsibilities to remain clear while the overall project pathway stays connected.

What is the relationship between Neda Builda and Stable Group?

Stable Group and Neda Builda sit under the same ownership but operate as separate businesses. Stable Group provides planning, design, drafting, architectural and consent-related services, while Neda Builda focuses on delivering the construction work. The relationship means homeowners can access connected expertise where appropriate without blurring who is responsible for each part of the project.

How much will my renovation, extension or new build cost?

There is no responsible single figure without understanding the project. Cost can be influenced by scope, existing conditions, design, site access, structural requirements, materials, selections and the level of work required. Rather than publishing misleading generic prices, Neda Builda aims to help homeowners understand what drives the cost of their particular project. This follows the site standard of avoiding unsupported pricing or false precision.

How long will my project take?

Project duration varies depending on design development, approvals, project size, complexity, existing conditions, selections, procurement and construction requirements. Once enough information is available, the appropriate project team can discuss a more meaningful programme rather than offering an unreliable generic timeframe.

Should I renovate, extend or build new?

There is no universal answer. The right option depends on what you want the property to achieve, the condition and layout of the existing home, site constraints, available space, planning requirements and the level of change required. Neda Builda's planning resources are designed to help homeowners compare those decisions before committing to a solution.

What happens after I contact Neda Builda?

The first step is understanding your property, what you are considering, what information already exists and what you would like to achieve. From there, the next step may involve further planning, design or specialist input, or—where the project is sufficiently developed—a more detailed construction discussion.

What happens if I want to change something during the build?

Changes can arise during a building project. If you would like to adjust something, speak with your project manager. The proposed change will be priced and any effect on the construction programme confirmed before the affected work proceeds, helping keep decisions, costs and expectations clear.

Who will I be dealing with during the build?

During construction, your dedicated project manager will be your main point of contact, supported by a site lead coordinating the day-to-day work. You will receive regular progress updates so you understand what is happening on site and what is coming next.

What if I’m only researching and I’m not ready to build yet?

You can use the planning guides, FAQs and Project Readiness Checks to work out what needs attention next, and start a conversation when it becomes useful.

Can I build a granny flat without building consent in 2026?

Possibly. Since 15 January 2026, certain new, standalone, single-storey dwellings up to 70 m² may use the exemption when every condition is met. A special PIM, licensed professionals, Building Code compliance and completion records are still required.

Read the full granny-flat exemption guide

Does the granny-flat exemption apply to every minor dwelling?

No. Being under 70 m² is only one condition. The building form, design, site, foundations, services, natural-hazard position, planning rules and professional requirements must also be checked for the actual proposal.

Check what the exemption does and does not cover

What is the difference between design and build and appointing an architect and builder separately?

The main difference is how the parties are appointed and coordinated. A separate model usually gives the homeowner distinct design and construction engagements; design and build creates a more integrated pathway. Neither removes the need for appropriate architectural or specialist input.

Compare the two delivery models

Does design and build mean I lose architectural input?

No. In the Neda Builda and Stable Group pathway, Stable Group can independently provide planning, design, drafting, architectural and consent services while Neda Builda delivers construction. The businesses share ownership but retain clear roles.

Read how the connected pathway works

What should I investigate before building on a sloping site?

Useful early information may include survey contours, property records, access, services, water paths and appropriate geotechnical or engineering input. The required investigations depend on the site and proposed building, earthworks, retaining and drainage.

Read the sloping-site homeowner guide

Will every sloping site need retaining walls or special foundations?

No. The response depends on the landform, ground conditions, building position and loads. Retaining, stepped floors, piles, excavation and drainage should be considered together rather than assumed from the word ‘slope’. Use site-specific professional advice.

Explore slope, structure and drainage considerations

What changes when building or renovating near the coast?

Wind, wind-driven rain, salt, corrosion, UV and access can affect structure, cladding, roofing, fixings, flashings, coatings and maintenance. The correct response depends on the exact site's wind and corrosion exposure and the selected building systems.

Read the coastal building and renovation guide

KEEP PLANNING

Go deeper where it is useful.

Choose the service, guide or next step that best matches where your thinking has reached.

PROJECT OPTIONS

Explore Neda Builda services

Continue into the relevant service hub for more detailed questions about that kind of project.

Browse all services

PLANNING RESOURCES

Homeowner Planning Hub

Use practical guides to understand the decisions that can shape a residential project.

Explore homeowner resources

PRACTICAL CHECK

Project Readiness Check

Work through the information you have and identify which areas may need attention next.

Check project readiness

DECISION GUIDE

Renovate or move?

Compare the property, lifestyle and project factors that can influence this early decision.

Read the decision guide

YOUR PROJECT

Start a project conversation

Share what you know about the property and the outcome you are considering.

Contact Neda Builda

READY WHEN IT IS USEFUL

Start with what you know.

You do not need every answer before getting in touch. Share the property, the outcome you are considering and any information you already have.

Start a Project ConversationCheck Project Readiness