Heat Pump Installation
Split systems are typically exempt — ducted systems may require consent
Heat pumps are one of the most popular home upgrades in New Zealand. Standard split system heat pumps are explicitly listed as exempt building work under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, provided they are installed by an authorised person. Ducted systems are more complex and may require consent.
General guidance only. This website provides general guidance only. It does not confirm that building work is exempt and does not replace advice from your local council, architect, architectural designer, engineer, planner, licensed building practitioner or other suitably qualified professional. Any exempt building work must still comply with the New Zealand Building Code and any other relevant legal requirements. Full disclaimer →
Split system heat pumps: generally exempt
Under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, the installation of a heat pump is listed as exempt building work, provided it is carried out by an authorised person. This means most standard wall-mounted split systems can be installed without a building consent application.
- →The installation must be carried out by an authorised person (typically a licensed refrigeration engineer and registered electrician)
- →The wall penetration for refrigerant pipes and cabling must be properly sealed and weatherproofed
- →The outdoor unit must be positioned in compliance with any district plan setback rules
- →Some councils may have specific requirements for outdoor units in heritage zones
Even though consent is generally not required, the installation must still comply with the New Zealand Building Code — particularly Clause E2 (External Moisture) for any wall penetrations.
Ducted systems and MVHR: more complex
Ducted heat pumps and mechanical ventilation and heat recovery (MVHR) systems involve significantly more building work than a standard split system. Building consent may be required depending on the scope of the installation.
- →Ducted systems require penetrations through ceilings, walls, and sometimes the roof
- →Structural modifications to accommodate ductwork may trigger a consent requirement
- →MVHR systems involve penetrating the building envelope at multiple points
- →Larger commercial-grade systems are more likely to require consent
Confirm with your local council whether your ducted system requires consent before starting any work.
Authorised persons
The Schedule 1 exemption for heat pump installation requires the work to be carried out by an 'authorised person'. In practice, this means:
- →Refrigerant work must be carried out by a licensed refrigeration engineer (HASA certified)
- →Electrical work must be carried out by a registered electrician
- →Reputable heat pump installers typically hold both qualifications or subcontract appropriately
- →DIY heat pump installation is not permitted — always use a qualified installer
Outdoor unit placement
The outdoor unit of a heat pump must be positioned carefully to comply with district plan rules and avoid nuisance issues with neighbours.
- →Setback distances from boundaries apply in most residential zones
- →Noise from outdoor units can be an issue — consider placement relative to neighbours
- →Some body corporates have rules about the placement of outdoor units
- →Heritage zones may restrict where outdoor units can be visible from the street
Frequently asked questions
Do I need building consent to install a heat pump?
For standard split system heat pumps, building consent is generally not required under Schedule 1 of the Building Act 2004, provided the installation is carried out by an authorised person. Ducted systems may require consent — confirm with your council.
Can I install a heat pump myself?
No. Refrigerant work must be carried out by a licensed refrigeration engineer and electrical work by a registered electrician. DIY installation is illegal and voids most warranties.
Does the outdoor unit need council approval?
Building consent is generally not required for the outdoor unit of a standard split system, but district plan rules on setbacks and noise may apply. Check with your council if you are unsure about placement.
What about a heat pump in a heritage zone?
Heritage zones and character overlays may impose additional restrictions on visible equipment such as outdoor units. Check your council's district plan or contact them directly before proceeding.
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