Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)
Who are the best tiny house builders?
If you're looking for the best tiny house builder in New Zealand, you're in luck! There are plenty of professional builders in the country with a growing list of satisfied customers. The best way to find a builder is through referrals and word of mouth, so connect with other tiny house enthusiasts on social media and ask about their experiences with their builders. Be sure to do your own research as well, using platforms like the Business Register, the Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) Register, and the Registered Master Builders website. When you meet with a potential builder, be prepared to ask questions and clarify any concerns you have. Finally, make sure you have a clear, written contract outlining all the details of the build. For more detailed information, check out the Tiny House Hub free guide “Finding a tiny house builder”.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/finding-a-tiny-house-builder
Who builds tiny homes in NZ?
Here are our top 5 tips when looking for a tiny house builder in New Zealand 1) Ask around for referrals and recommendations from happy tiny house owners who have lived in their home for at least a year. 2) Do your own research on the company by checking out their online presence and looking them up on the Business Register and Licensed Building Practitioner Register. 3) Prepare a list of questions to ask potential builders when meeting them, including their experience, qualifications, and track record. 4) Get multiple quotes and compare them to ensure you're getting a fair price. 5) Don't forget to clarify the terms of the contract and ensure that everything is in writing. For more detailed information we recommend you check out the free guide “Finding a tiny house builder” on the tiny house hub. Happy tiny house hunting!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/finding-a-tiny-house-builder
Can I use any trailer for a tiny house?
When choosing a trailer for a tiny house, it's important to consider the weight distribution, weight restrictions, road legality, size, durability, axles, and brakes. The trailer should be designed with tiny houses in mind, with most of the weight around the exterior of the frame. It should also have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) that is suitable for the weight of the tiny house, including the trailer's own weight. a tiny house built on a light simple trailer, must meet certain specifications in terms of length, width, height, overhang, and tire size. The trailer should also be durable enough to withstand the weight and movement of the tiny house, and it should have sufficient axles and brakes to support the weight and length of the tiny house. We recommend you check out this free guide "Tiny house trailers – things to consider" from the Tiny House Hub for more detailed information.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-trailers-things-to-consider
What is the best trailer for a tiny house?
When choosing a trailer for your tiny house, it's important to consider weight distribution, weight restrictions, road legality, size, quality and durability, and cost. Look for a trailer that was designed with tiny houses in mind and can hold the weight around the exterior of the frame to ensure stability. Make sure the trailer is able to carry the total weight of both the trailer and tiny house and choose a light simple trailer if you want to be able to legally tow your tiny house on public roads in New Zealand. Consider the size of the trailer in relation to the size of your tiny house and opt for a trailer made of high-quality materials for longevity. Keep your budget in mind when selecting a trailer and be sure to weigh the trade-off between price and quality. We recommend checking out the free guide “Tiny house trailers – things to consider” by the Tiny House Hub.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-trailers-things-to-consider
Is it cheaper to build your own tiny house?
It is possible that building your own tiny house could be cheaper than hiring a builder to construct it for you. However, it is important to consider all of the costs associated with a DIY project before making a decision. Building your own tiny house can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be challenging, especially if you are not an experienced builder. In addition to the cost of materials and other expenses, you will also need to factor in your own labor costs, as well as any tools or equipment that you will need to purchase or rent. If you are considering building your own tiny house, it is important to carefully plan and budget for the project to ensure that it stays on track and within your financial means. We recommend checking out the free guides "10 tips for DIY tiny house builders" and "DIY build budget excel template" from the Tiny House Hub for helpful information and tips on how to successfully DIY build your own tiny house.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/10-tips-for-diy-tiny-house-builders
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/diy-build-budget-excel-template
How do you level a tiny house?
To level a tiny house, you can use scissor jacks or levelling jacks to lift the trailer and make adjustments until the tiny house is level on all sides. It's important to not fully extend the jacks and to use concrete or timber blocks for support. Once the tiny house is level, you should use permanent supports like wooden or concrete blocks to hold up the trailer. These supports should be placed in the recommended position by the manufacturer or trailer supplier based on the engineering design of the trailer and the weight and length of the tiny house. After the tiny house has been in position for a few weeks, you may need to level it again as the ground settles. To avoid issues with doors, windows, cupboards, and drawers, as well as potential structural issues, it's important to regularly check that the tiny house is level. For more information on setting up a tiny house on wheels, we recommend you can check out the free guide “Setting up your tiny house on the land” from the Tiny House Hub.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/setting-up-your-tiny-house-on-wheels-on-the-land
How to make your own tiny house?
Building your own tiny house can be a rewarding and exciting project, but it's important to carefully plan and prepare before diving in. Here are some tips to help you get started: Research and plan: Start by researching tiny houses and learning about different designs, materials, and building codes. Make a list of your needs and wants, and consider your budget and building skills. Choose a design: There are many tiny house designs available online or you can create your own. Consider factors like your budget, the size of your property, and the materials you want to use. Choose a trailer: Tiny houses are built on trailers, so you'll need to decide on the size and type of trailer that's right for your project. Consider factors like weight, length, and width. Gather materials and tools: You'll need a variety of materials and tools to build your tiny house, including lumber, screws, nails, and a drill. Make a list of everything you'll need and purchase or borrow the necessary items. Create a budget and timeline: Building a tiny house can be expensive, so it's important to create a budget and timeline to help you stay on track. Consider hiring a contractor or builder if you don't feel comfortable tackling the project on your own. Get started: With your plans, materials, and tools in place, it's time to start building your tiny house. Follow the plans you've created and take it one step at a time. If you're considering building your own tiny house, we recommend checking out these free guides from the Tiny House Hub: "DIY build budget excel template", and "10 tips for DIY tiny house builders".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/diy-build-budget-excel-template
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/10-tips-for-diy-tiny-house-builders
Is it possible to have 3 bedrooms in a tiny house?
Yes, it is possible to have three bedrooms in a tiny house on wheels in New Zealand. However, it is important to keep in mind that the size of the tiny house and the layout of the interior space will greatly impact the feasibility and practicality of having three bedrooms. In order to fit three bedrooms into a tiny house on wheels, the house will need to be significantly larger than the standard size for tiny houses, which is typically around 7.5 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. It may also be necessary to use creative design solutions such as loft beds or bunk beds to maximize the use of space. It is important to carefully plan and design the layout of a tiny house with three bedrooms to ensure that it is functional and comfortable for occupants. It may also be necessary to consider any local building codes or regulations that may impact the size and design of the tiny house. If you are considering building a tiny house with three bedrooms, we recommend, you check out the Tiny House Hub's free guide “Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?”, Tiny houses and the law – legislation you need to know about.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
How to find land for tiny house NZ?
To find land for a tiny house in New Zealand, there are several options available. One resource to consider is www.landshare.nz, a website specifically designed to connect tiny house dwellers and landowners. In addition, creating a flyer and distributing it in the area you hope to live, joining local Facebook groups and asking for available land, spreading the word among your personal network, and attending community events can all be helpful methods for finding land. It is also important to consider the cost of leasing land, which can vary depending on location and the services available. To protect both parties, it is recommended to have a written contract in place. Before signing a lease agreement, it is also crucial to check local council bylaws and district plan clauses to ensure compliance with any restrictions on living in a tiny house on private land. For further information on finding land to lease for a tiny house in New Zealand, be sure to check out the free guide "Finding land to lease for your tiny house" on www.tinyhousehub.co.nz.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/finding-land-to-lease-for-your-tiny-house
Are tiny houses legal in New Zealand?
Tiny houses in New Zealand? They're legal, but it's always best to check with your local council to make sure you have the necessary approvals. It's all about those pesky LTA, Building Act, and RMA regulations. Just think of it like towing a caravan - if it meets the criteria for a "light simple trailer," you're good to go. But if it's going to be a permanent, immovable residence with a bathroom or kitchen, you may need to get consent. Want more info? Check out these guides "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide", and "Tiny houses and the law – legislation you need to know about" on the Tiny House Hub.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
Can I put a tiny house on my property NZ?
Ready to put a tiny house on your property in New Zealand? It's possible, but make sure you check with your local council first to see what approvals you may need. The LTA, Building Act, and RMA all have their say in whether or not your tiny house can be placed on your property. If it meets the criteria for a "light simple trailer," you're in luck. But if it's going to be a permanent, immovable residence with a bathroom or kitchen, you may need building consent. And don't forget about resource consent if your property is zoned for a specific use. Want more info? Check out these guides "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide", and "Tiny houses and the law – legislation you need to know about" on the Tiny House Hub. Happy tiny house planning!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
Do you need a permit for a tiny house NZ?
If you want to build a tiny house on wheels in New Zealand, it is important to be aware of the relevant legislation that may apply. According to the Tiny House Guide, there are three main pieces of legislation to consider: the Land Transport Act (LTA), the Building Act, and the Resource Management Act (RMA). The Land Transport Act (LTA) outlines the rules for using public roads in New Zealand and determines whether or not a tiny house on wheels can be transported on public roads. The size and weight of the tiny house will determine if it can be moved on its own trailer, or if it requires a heavy rigid trailer and special permits. The Building Act outlines when building consent is required for a tiny house. A tiny house on wheels that meets the criteria of a light simple trailer is considered a vehicle under the Building Act may not subjected to the same building consent requirements as a traditional house. However, if the tiny house is immovable, lived in permanently, and has a bathroom or kitchen, it may be subject to the Building Act and require building consent. The Resource Management Act (RMA) outlines when resource consent is required for a tiny house on wheels. This may be necessary if the tiny house is being placed on land that is zoned for a specific use, such as residential or agricultural. It is important to check with the local council to determine if resource consent is needed for your tiny house. Overall, it is important to be aware of the relevant legislation that may apply to your tiny house in New Zealand and to follow the necessary steps to ensure compliance. It is recommended to consult with the local council and seek legal advice if you have any questions about the laws and regulations that apply to your tiny house. We recommend checking out the following free guides from the Tiny House Hub for more detailed information - "Tiny houses and the law – legislation you need to know about", and "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
Do you need resource consent for tiny house NZ?
It's a good question, and the answer isn't always a simple one. In New Zealand, there are three main pieces of legislation to consider when building a tiny house on wheels: the Land Transport Act (LTA), the Building Act, and the Resource Management Act (RMA). The LTA determines whether or not your tiny house can be transported on public roads based on its size and weight. If it meets the criteria for a "light simple trailer," you're good to go - just like towing a caravan. If not, you may need a heavy rigid trailer and special permits. The Building Act determines when building consent is required for a tiny house. If your tiny house meets the criteria for a light simple trailer, it may not be subject to the same building consent requirements as a traditional house. However, if it's immovable, lived in permanently, and has a bathroom or kitchen, it may be subject to the Building Act and require building consent. The RMA outlines when resource consent is required for a tiny house on wheels, depending on the zoning of the land it's being placed on. If you're unsure if you need consent for your transportable home, it's best to check with your local council and seek legal advice. In short, it's important to be aware of the relevant legislation that may apply to your tiny house in New Zealand and to follow the necessary steps to ensure compliance. For more detailed information, we recommend checking out the Tiny House Hub's guides on "Tiny houses and the law" and "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide." Happy building!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
Do you need council consent for a tiny home?
When it comes to building a tiny house in New Zealand, it's always a good idea to check with your local council to see what approval may be needed. There are three main pieces of legislation to consider: the Land Transport Act (LTA), the Building Act, and the Resource Management Act (RMA). The LTA determines whether or not your tiny house can be transported on public roads based on its size and weight. If it meets the criteria for a "light simple trailer," you're good to go - just like towing a caravan. If not, you may need a heavy rigid trailer and special permits. The Building Act determines when building consent is required for a tiny house. If your tiny house meets the criteria for a light simple trailer, it may not be subject to the same building consent requirements as a traditional house. However, if it's immovable, lived in permanently, and has a bathroom or kitchen, it may be subject to the Building Act and require building consent. The RMA outlines when resource consent is required for a tiny house on wheels, depending on the zoning of the land it's being placed on. This may be necessary if the tiny house is being placed on land that is zoned for a specific use, such as residential or agricultural. So, to answer the question - yes, you may need council approval for a tiny house in NZ. It's always best to check with your local council and seek legal advice to ensure you have all the necessary approvals before building your tiny home. For more detailed information, we recommend checking out the Tiny House Hub's guides on "Tiny houses and the law" and "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide." Happy building!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
What can I build without consent NZ?
In New Zealand, you may be able to build certain structures or make certain alterations to your property without requiring building consent, depending on the specific type of work and the rules in your local council area. Here are a few examples of what you may be able to build or alter without consent in New Zealand: Minor repairs and maintenance: You may be able to carry out minor repairs and maintenance on your property without building consent, as long as the work does not alter the structure or appearance of the building. Examples of minor repairs and maintenance that may not require consent include painting, replacing a broken window, or fixing a leaking roof. Temporary structures: You may be able to build temporary structures, such as marquees or tents, on your property without building consent, as long as the structures are not used for more than 28 days in a row. Small sheds: You may be able to build a small shed on your property without building consent, as long as the shed is less than 10 square meters in size and is not used for sleeping or cooking. Retaining walls: You may be able to build a retaining wall on your property without building consent, as long as the wall is less than 1.5 meters in height and does not support any building or other structure. Overall, it's important to understand the specific rules and regulations for building and altering structures on your property in New Zealand, as failure to comply with these requirements could result in fines, legal action, or other penalties. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional or your local council to determine whether your planned work requires building consent.
How big can a tiny house be and still be considered tiny?
Ah, the age-old question! Technically, there is no official size limit for a tiny house. Some people might say that as soon as it's not tiny anymore, it's no longer a tiny house. But when it comes to tiny houses on wheels, size and weight can be important factors to consider for two main reasons: avoiding council consent and transportability. To avoid council consent, you'll want to ensure that your tiny house has the characteristics of a vehicle and can be easily moved at all times. One way to achieve this is to build your tiny house on a trailer, but keep in mind that trailers have size and weight limitations. In New Zealand, a tiny house on wheels can be classified as a "light simple trailer" if it weighs no more than 3500 kilograms (including the weight of the trailer) and is no more than 12.5 meters long and 2.55 meters wide. If your tiny house doesn't meet these criteria, it may be considered an "over-width load on a trailer" and require additional permits and possibly a truck and crane to move. In terms of transportability, it's important to consider the size and weight of your tiny house in relation to your intended use. Will you be towing it frequently, or do you plan to leave it in one spot? Do you want to be able to park it in a standard parking space, or are you okay with taking up a little extra room? These are all things to consider when deciding on the size of your tiny house. If you're looking for more information, you can start by checking out the free guide available at Tiny House Hub, " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?". Ultimately, the size of your tiny house is up to you and what works best for your needs and lifestyle. Just keep in mind the potential limitations and restrictions that may come with a larger size, such as the need for council consent or difficulty in transporting the house. And if you're still not sure, you can always refer back to the Tiny House Hub's resource on "Tiny houses on wheels – how big can I legally build?" for more detailed information. Happy building!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
How big is a tiny house in NZ?
In New Zealand, the size of a tiny house on wheels is largely determined by two factors: avoiding the need for council consent and transportability. To avoid council consent, tiny houses on wheels should be built on a trailer and meet the criteria for a "light simple trailer" under the Land Transport Act. This includes being no more than 3500 kilograms in weight, including the trailer, and no more than 12.5 metres long and 2.55 metres wide. If a tiny house on wheels does not meet these criteria, it may be considered an over-width load on a trailer and require additional permits and possibly a truck and crane to move. When it comes to transportability, it's important to consider the size and weight of your tiny house in relation to the size and weight limits of the trailer it is built on. Overall, the size of a tiny house in New Zealand can vary, but it's important to consider these factors to ensure compliance and transportability. If you're looking for more information, you can start by checking out the free guide available at Tiny House Hub, " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
How tall can a tiny house be NZ?
In terms of height, there are no specific regulations for tiny houses on wheels in New Zealand. However, it is important to consider the height of your tiny house when it comes to transportability and the potential need for council consent. If you are building your tiny house on a trailer and want it to be considered a light simple trailer under the Land Transport Act, the maximum height is 4.25 meters (including the trailer height), including any load that protrudes above the trailer (e.g. skylights, solar panels, or flues). If your tiny house exceeds this height, it will be classified as an over-height load and will need a permit to be transported on public roads. It is also important to consider the height of your tiny house when it comes to parking and storing it. Make sure to check the height restrictions of any areas you plan on storing or parking your tiny house to ensure it fits within the limits. Overall, it is important to consider the height of your tiny house when it comes to transportability and the potential need for council consent, as well as the height restrictions of any areas you plan on storing or parking it.If you're looking for more information, you can start by checking out the free guide available at Tiny House Hub, " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
How wide are you aloud to build a tiny house in NZ?
In terms of width, it's important to note that the width of your tiny house on wheels will also be restricted by the size of the trailer you build it on. The maximum width for a light simple trailer (a trailer with one, two, or three axles that is easily moveable and not permanently attached to any other structures) in New Zealand is 2.5 meters. This includes the width of the trailer itself, so you'll need to factor that into the width of your tiny house. It's worth noting that if your tiny house is wider than 2.5 meters, you may still be able to legally transport it on public roads in New Zealand by obtaining an over-width load permit. However, it's important to check with your local council and the New Zealand Transport Agency before proceeding with this option. If you're looking for more information, you can start by checking out the free guide available at Tiny House Hub, " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
What is the biggest size tiny house you can build?
The size of your tiny house on wheels in New Zealand is something you'll want to consider carefully to ensure it's suitable for your desired use and meets legal requirements. There is no official size limit for tiny houses in New Zealand, but size and weight are important to consider when it comes to obtaining council consent and transporting your tiny house. To avoid the need for council consent, you may want to build your tiny house on a trailer to give it vehicle characteristics and make it easily moveable. However, keep in mind that trailers have size and weight restrictions. To legally transport a tiny house on public roads in New Zealand, it must be classified as a vehicle under the Land Transport Act. This can be achieved by building your tiny house within the limitations of a light simple trailer, which has specific weight and dimension requirements, or by building it as an over-width load on a trailer. For more detailed information on size and weight restrictions for tiny houses in New Zealand, check out the Tiny House Hub resource - "Tiny houses on wheels – how big can I legally build?"
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
What is the maximum size of a tiny house NZ?
The maximum size of a tiny house in New Zealand depends on the size of the trailer it is built on and the weight limitations for transport on public roads. The size and weight of your tiny house should be carefully considered to avoid the need for council consent and to ensure it is transportable. To legally transport a tiny house on public roads in New Zealand, it must be classified as a light simple trailer or an over-width load on a trailer. For more detailed information on size and weight restrictions for tiny houses in New Zealand, be sure to check out the Tiny House Hub guide " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?" for more detailed information.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
What is the smallest house you can legally build?
Well, technically speaking, the smallest tiny house you could legally build would be just big enough to fit all of your belongings and yourself inside. But let's be real, who wants to live in a sardine can? For more detailed information on the size and weight restrictions for tiny houses on wheels in New Zealand, check out the Tiny House Hub " Tiny houses on wheels, how big can I legally build?". It'll give you a better idea of what's possible and what you need to consider when building or buying your tiny house. Happy building!
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-on-wheels-how-big-can-i-legally-build
How many tiny houses can I build on my property NZ?
The number of tiny houses that can be built on a property in New Zealand will depend on the zoning of the land and any local council rules or regulations that may apply. If the land is zoned for residential use, the number of tiny houses that can be built will be subject to the same rules as traditional houses. This may include minimum lot sizes, maximum building coverage, and minimum setbacks from boundaries. It is important to check with the local council to determine the specific rules and regulations that apply to your property. If the land is zoned for agricultural use, it may be possible to build more than one tiny house on the property. However, the local council may still have rules and regulations that apply, such as minimum lot sizes and maximum building coverage. It is important to check with the local council to determine the specific rules and regulations that apply to your property. In addition to the zoning and local council rules, it is also important to consider other factors such as access to utilities, sewage disposal, and the overall impact of multiple tiny houses on the surrounding area. Overall, it is important to carefully consider the zoning and local council rules, as well as the practical considerations, when determining how many tiny houses can be built on your property in New Zealand. It is recommended to consult with the local council and seek legal advice if you have any questions about the laws and regulations that apply to your property. We recommend checking out the following free guides from the Tiny House Hub for more detailed information - "Tiny houses and the law – legislation you need to know about", and "Tiny House on Wheels - Council Guide".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-houses-and-the-law-legislation-you-need-to-know-about
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/tiny-house-on-wheels-council-guide
What credit score do you need to finance a tiny house?
So you want to join the tiny house movement and ditch your mortgage for a life of freedom and minimalism? Good for you! But before you can start downsizing and decluttering, you'll need to figure out how to finance that tiny abode of yours. Don't worry, we've got you covered. First things first, if you're a responsible adult with a decent credit score, you might be able to snag a personal loan to cover the cost. Just beware that the interest rates on these bad boys tend to be higher than traditional home loans, so make sure you shop around for the best deal. But wait, what if you're not a homeowner or your credit score isn't quite up to par? No problem! You could try looking at loans specifically for caravans and motorhomes (since tiny houses are basically just fancy trailers). Or, if you already own a home, you could try adding the cost of the tiny house to your existing mortgage. Just make sure to check with your lender to see if this is even an option. Alternatively, you could try accessing equity in any land you own, or joining a group savings pool to borrow interest-free from your fellow minimalists. And if you're a KiwiSaver member, you might even be able to use your account to withdraw funds for a first home purchase (just don't count on this option if you're planning on buying a tiny house). So there you have it – a few options for financing your tiny house dream. Just remember to do your research and choose the option that works best for you and your financial situation. Happy downsizing! For more detailed information we recommend you check out these free guides on the Tiny House Hub - Financing options for tiny houses, and Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a tiny house?
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/financing-options-for-tiny-houses
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/can-i-use-my-kiwisaver-to-buy-a-tiny-house
Will banks loan on a tiny house?
Ready to join the tiny house movement? Awesome! But before you can start downsizing and simplifying your life, you'll need to figure out how to finance that tiny abode of yours. Now, it's no secret that traditional banks and mortgage lenders might not be too keen on lending for tiny houses. But don't despair! There are still options out there, like personal loans, loans for caravans and motorhomes, refinancing an existing home loan, accessing equity in land, joining a group savings pool, or using a KiwiSaver first home loan withdrawal (just don't count on the latter if you're buying a tiny house). So, bottom line: it might be a little harder to get a loan for a tiny house, but it's definitely not impossible. Just do your research and choose the financing option that works best for you and your budget. Happy downsizing! For more detailed information we recommend you check out these free guides on the Tiny House Hub - Financing options for tiny houses, and Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a tiny house?
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/financing-options-for-tiny-houses
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/can-i-use-my-kiwisaver-to-buy-a-tiny-house
Are composting toilets legal in NZ?
So you're thinking about going green and installing a composting toilet in your home, but you're not sure if it's legal in New Zealand? No worries, we've got you covered. First things first, if you have access to a mains sewerage system, you'll need to connect your toilet to it unless you get a waiver from the building consent authority. But if you're in a rural area or your home isn't connected to a sewer system, you're in luck! Just make sure to follow the standard requirements for waterless composting toilets as outlined in AS/NZS 1546.2:2008. And remember, composting toilets that are separate from your home are considered buildings under the Building Act 2004, so you'll need to comply with the plumbing requirements of NZBC clauses G12 and G13. And depending on where you live, there may be additional local requirements and restrictions to consider. But what about the requirements of the composting toilet system itself? Well, it needs to be sanitary and prevent contact with disease carriers, like flies. It should also produce no offensive smells and end with an inoffensive product with low concentrations of harmful bacteria. Additionally, composting toilets may require continuous extract ventilation and a separate urine disposal system, and they can only be installed where there is no available public sewer connection. And if anything goes wrong or needs maintenance, you'll need an alternative means of disposal. So there you have it – everything you need to know about whether composting toilets are legal in NZ. Just make sure to follow the rules and regulations, and you'll be well on your way to an eco-friendlier bathroom setup. Happy composting! For more detailed information we recommend you check www.tinyhousehub.co.nz
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/
Can I tow a tiny house?
Sure thing! But it all depends on whether your tiny house is classified as a "light simple trailer" by the New Zealand Transport Agency. If it meets the criteria of weighing no more than 3500 kilograms, being no more than 12.5 metres long including the drawbar of the trailer, and being no more than 2.55 metres wide, then you're good to go - just like towing a caravan. However, if your tiny house doesn't fit these requirements, you may need to get some additional permits and potentially even a truck and crane to move it. Just be sure to carefully plan your route, have the right insurance, and make sure you have the proper driver's license before hitting the road with your tiny home in tow. We recommend checking out the Tiny House Hub's guides on "Moving your tiny house," "Towing your tiny house," and "Engaging a transport company to move your tiny house.
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/moving-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/towing-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/engaging-a-transport-company-to-move-your-tiny-house
How are tiny houses transported?
Thinking about joining the tiny house movement but not sure how to get your tiny house from point A to point B? No worries, we've got you covered! One of the great things about tiny houses on wheels is that they can be easily moved, whether you're looking to relocate to a new city or just a different spot in your current town. But before you hit the road, there are a few things you'll need to know about towing your tiny house. First and foremost, you'll want to determine whether your tiny house is classified as a light simple trailer. This is important because it will impact how you can legally tow your home on public roads. To qualify as a light simple trailer, your tiny house must weigh no more than 3500 kilograms, be no more than 12.5 meters long (including the trailer's drawbar), no more than 2.55 meters wide, and no more than 4.3 meters high (including any permanent fixtures like solar panels or fireplace flues). If your tiny house meets these requirements, you can legally tow it on its own trailer, just like you would a caravan. But what if your tiny house is too large or too heavy to qualify as a light simple trailer? In that case, you'll need to hire a professional to move it, and it will likely be classified as an over-width load on a trailer. This means you'll need to obtain the appropriate permits and hire a truck and crane to transport your tiny house. Just be prepared for higher costs and more logistical planning compared to moving a tiny house that fits within the light simple trailer category. For more detailed information on towing your tiny house, check out these free guides on the Tiny House Hub website, "Preparing to move your tiny house", "Moving your tiny house", "Towing your tiny house", and "Engaging a transport company to move your tiny house".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/moving-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/towing-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/engaging-a-transport-company-to-move-your-tiny-house
How easy is it to tow a tiny house?
Towing a tiny house in New Zealand can be easy or more complex depending on whether your tiny house is classified as a "light simple trailer." To be considered a light simple trailer, your tiny house must meet certain criteria set by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA), including weighing no more than 3500 kilograms, being no more than 12.5 metres long including the drawbar of the trailer, and being no more than 2.55 metres wide. If your tiny house meets these criteria, it can be legally towed on its own trailer on public roads in New Zealand, similar to towing a caravan. This means you can move it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you. If your tiny house does not meet these criteria, it may be considered an over-width load on a trailer when travelling on public roads and will require additional permits and possibly a truck and crane to move. It is important to carefully plan your route and ensure you have the appropriate insurance and driver's licence when towing your tiny house. For more information on towing your tiny house in New Zealand, we recommend checking out the Tiny House Hub's guides on "Moving your tiny house," "Towing your tiny house," and "Engaging a transport company to move your tiny house."
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/moving-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/towing-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/engaging-a-transport-company-to-move-your-tiny-house
What kind of vehicle can tow a tiny house?
To determine the size of vehicle you need to move a tiny house, you'll first need to determine whether your tiny house is classified as a light simple trailer or not. Light simple trailer requirements are defined by the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and include the following: • The tiny home, including the trailer, weighs no more than 3500 kilograms • The tiny house on its light simple trailer is no more than 12.5 metres long, including the drawbar of the trailer • The combination of your towing vehicle and the tiny house attached to it is no more than 22 metres long • The tiny house, including the trailer, is no more than 2.55 metres wide • The tiny house is no more than 4.3 metres high when measured from the ground, including the trailer and all permanent fixtures such as solar panels or fireplace flues If you're looking for more information, you can start by checking out the free resources available at Tiny House Hub, "Moving your tiny house", "Towing your tiny house", and "Engaging a transport company to move your tiny house".
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/moving-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/towing-your-tiny-house
https://tinyhousehub.co.nz/howToGuides/engaging-a-transport-company-to-move-your-tiny-house