What Qualifications Should a Roofer Have to Work on NZ Homes?

Roofing in New Zealand isn't a fully licensed trade in the same way as electrical or plumbing work, but that doesn't mean anyone can legally or safely reroof your home. Qualified roofers hold recognised trade certificates, must comply with the NZ Building Code, and are often required to obtain a building consent for significant roofing work. Knowing what to look for before you hire protects your home, your warranty, and your safety.

Is Roofing a Licensed Trade in New Zealand?

Unlike electricians (regulated by the Electrical Workers Registration Board) or plumbers (regulated by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board), roofing is not a restricted trade under New Zealand law. There is no single government body that licences roofers. However, this makes it even more important for homeowners to check a roofer's qualifications and credentials carefully before signing a contract.

Recognised Qualifications to Look For

A well-qualified NZ roofer will typically hold one or more of the following:

• New Zealand Certificate in Roofing (Level 4) – This is the primary trade qualification for roofers in NZ, covering metal, membrane, and tiled roofing systems. It is delivered through providers such as BCITO (Building and Construction Industry Training Organisation).
• New Zealand Apprenticeship in Roofing – A structured on-the-job training programme leading to the Level 4 certificate.
• Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) – While not all roofers are LBPs, those who are have been assessed by MBIE as competent to carry out or supervise restricted building work. Check the Licensed Building Practitioners register to verify a roofer's LBP status.
• Manufacturer training and accreditation – Many roofing material suppliers (such as steel roofing manufacturers) run their own accreditation programmes. An accredited installer is often required to validate a product warranty.

When Is an LBP Required?

Restricted building work (RBW) is work that affects the weathertightness or structural integrity of a home. Roofing work on a house or small building almost always falls into this category. Under the Building Act 2004, RBW must be carried out or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner. This means:

• A full or partial reroof generally requires an LBP roofer.
• The LBP must provide a Record of Work on completion, which is an important document for your property file.
• If you use an unlicensed person for RBW, you may face issues with your building consent, insurance, and future sale of the property.

Always confirm with your local council whether your specific roofing project requires a building consent and an LBP.

Building Consent and Schedule 1 Exemptions

Some minor roofing repairs may be exempt from building consent under Schedule 1 of the Building Act, such as like-for-like repair of a small area of roofing. However, a full reroof, changing the roofing material, or altering the roof structure will generally require consent. The rules can be nuanced, so always check with your local council before starting work. MBIE Building Performance has useful guidance on what work requires consent.

NZ Building Code Compliance

All roofing work must comply with the NZ Building Code, particularly:

• Clause E2 (External Moisture) – Roofs must be designed and installed to prevent moisture entering the building.
• Clause B1 (Structure) – The roof structure must be able to handle wind, snow (in alpine areas), and other loads.

BRANZ publishes research and best-practice guidance that reputable roofers follow to meet these requirements.

Other Things to Check Before Hiring a Roofer

• Ask for their LBP licence number and verify it at lbp.govt.nz.
• Confirm they carry public liability insurance — ask to see a current certificate.
• Check whether they are a member of a trade association such as the Roofing Association of New Zealand (RANZ), which promotes industry standards.
• Get at least two or three written quotes and make sure the scope of work is clearly described.

Health and Safety on the Roof

Roofing is one of the highest-risk trades in New Zealand. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, contractors must manage fall risks and other hazards. WorkSafe NZ sets out requirements for working at height. A professional roofer will have a site-specific safety plan and appropriate fall protection equipment. Never attempt significant roofing work yourself without proper training and safety gear.

When to Call a Professional

You should always engage a qualified, LBP-licensed roofer for:

• Full or partial reroofing
• Replacing or repairing roof structure (purlins, rafters)
• Installing new flashings around chimneys, skylights, or penetrations
• Any work that could affect weathertightness

For very minor maintenance — such as clearing gutters or replacing a single broken tile — a building consent is unlikely to be needed, but working safely at height is still a serious consideration. When in doubt, call a pro.

You can find qualified, local roofing contractors on tradedirectory.co.nz — look for those who list their LBP number and relevant qualifications in their profile.

Sources & Further Reading

• Licensed Building Practitioners – LBP Register
• MBIE Building Performance – Building Consent Guidance
• BRANZ – Building Research
• WorkSafe NZ – Working at Height
• Standards New Zealand