At Hive Homes, quality and compliance are at the heart of everything we build. From the foundations to the final finishes, our goal is to deliver homes that not only look beautiful but are built to last — backed by the right materials, systems, and trades.

That’s why we keep a close eye on industry changes that affect the way homes are designed, waterproofed, and certified.

Our partners at Tile Depot and the New Zealand Tile Council (NZTC) have recently shared important updates from MBIE (Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment). MBIE is preparing to introduce a new Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) class for internal waterproofing — and it’s a change that will lift quality standards across the entire building industry.

Recent industry studies show that waterproofing is one of the highest risk areas in new builds and renovations:

BRANZ estimates around 16% of tiling work fails.

TANZ reports that about 10% of waterproofing doesn’t pass inspection.

Those numbers are far too high for a trade that protects the most sensitive areas of a home — bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens.

Right now, almost anyone can complete a short supplier course and call themselves a waterproofer. For such a critical trade skill, that’s a major gap in quality control.

This new LBP licence class is designed to fix that by ensuring only trained, qualified, and accountable professionals carry out internal waterproofing work.

The proposed new rules mean that:

Only licensed waterproofers, or those directly supervised by one, can perform waterproofing work.

Internal wet area waterproofing will become restricted building work.

Licensed trades will need to file Records of Work with councils and homeowners.

Practitioners will need to maintain their skills and renew licences regularly.

The new licence is expected to roll out in early 2026, with an 18-month transition period for the industry to adapt.

This is a major step forward for the NZ building industry — and something we fully support at Hive Homes.

✅ Better Quality, Fewer Failures

Homes will be safer, drier, and more durable.

✅ Protects Homeowners

Licensed waterproofing gives stronger warranty protection and insurance coverage.

✅ Lifts the Trade

It recognises waterproofing as a skilled, professional trade — not just an add-on task.

✅ Builds Confidence

When waterproofing is done right, tiling becomes the trusted choice again for modern bathrooms and kitchens.

At Hive Homes, we welcome these changes. They align with the standards we already hold ourselves to — building smarter, safer, and with total transparency.

We only work with qualified trades and trusted suppliers like Tile Depot, who share our commitment to long-term quality and compliance. Every bathroom and wet area in a Hive Home is constructed using tested systems, certified materials, and professional workmanship that meets or exceeds industry requirements.

Our clients can rest easy knowing their home is built right — and will stay that way for years to come.

As MBIE finalises the details of the new waterproofing licence, we’ll continue to stay involved and keep our team and clients informed. Change is coming — and it’s all about raising the standard for homes across New Zealand.

At Hive Homes, we’re proud to lead the way — combining modern design, up-to-date regulation, and quality assurance that protects every homeowner.

To learn more about how Hive Homes stays ahead of building regulations and ensures every detail of your new home meets the highest quality standards, visit www.hivehomes.co.nz

or contact our team today.