Build a minor dwelling or unit

Add property value
In Auckland’s property market, a minor dwelling is an attractive proposition for many buyers. It gives them the option of multi-generations sharing the cost of purchase or taking on tenants to help pay the mortgage.
A minor dwelling is a versatile space that can be used for whatever you need. Work from home in your office or studio, have a detached living space for adult children or older family members or you can even rent it out.
The introduction of the Auckland Unitary Plan has made it easier to add a second dwelling to your property. In general, you can build a minor dwelling if you’re in the following zones:
Residential Single House Zone
Residential Large Lot Zone
Residential Rural and Coastal Settlement Zone
While each zone has slightly different regulations, the maximum size of a minor dwelling in all three zones is 65m2. Go to Auckland Council's website to find out which zone you’re in and what you can do on your property.
Earn rental income
Earn extra income by listing your minor dwelling on Airbnb or renting it out to long-term tenants. If you have an investment property, you could earn two rental incomes by adding a second residence.
If you’re thinking about adding a minor dwelling to your property, get in touch and let's get the process started today!
Qualitas Builders can add a minor dwelling or studio unit to your property for more space or extra income
Minor dwelling project by Qualitas Builders
The brick exterior and joinery complement the original home, which was re-roofed to match the new build. With space at a premium, it was important that every aspect was well designed. The kitchen packs a lot of storage into a small space and even includes a washer/dryer combo. The engineered stone benchtop and handleless cabinetry give a crisp, clean look and is supremely practical. The splashback tiles add a pop of colour and the kitchen design is efficient for tenants.


Originally intended as a living space for an older family member, this gorgeous little studio unit in Green Bay, Auckland was easily rented out when plans changed. It’s carefully positioned so each dwelling has a high degree of privacy from the other.


In the bathroom, a skylight brings in natural light while maintaining privacy from a neighbouring house. Storage is surprisingly ample with a large recessed mirror cabinet, a drawer under the vanity and recessed niches in the shower. The large format grey tiles are wall to wall for easy cleaning and a compact ensuite design for a modern rental.
A generous bedroom space with a large wardrobe and open shelving means the tenants can effectively store their own possessions.


Transform your front yard ready for a rental unit







Build with complete peace of mind
As proud members of NZ Certified Builders, we offer access to the Halo 10-Year Residential Guarantee, one of the most comprehensive building protections available in New Zealand.
It goes well beyond the Building Act and Consumer Guarantees Act, safeguarding your home and investment for a full decade after completion. No matter what the future holds, Halo provides long-term peace of mind you can count on.
With Halo you’re covered for:
Loss of deposit
Non-completion, including remedial work
Materials and workmanship for two years after building work is complete
Structural defects for the next eight years from Guarantee Acceptance, including rot and fungal decay (weathertightness)
Up to 26 weeks alternative accommodation expenses while the house is being repaired
Automatically transferable when the home is sold, giving any new owners protection too
Please ask us for the Halo 10-Year Residential Guarantee Homeowner Handbook for full details of guarantee coverage, exclusions and additional benefits. All Halo applications must be submitted before building work starts.

