Who can I claim against for a leaky home?

Common question · Leaky Buildings & Weathertightness · New Zealand · 23 October 2026

General information from Lawmateanz

Depending on the facts, claims for a leaky home in New Zealand may be made against the builders, developers, designers, building certifiers and, in some cases, the council that inspected or certified the work.

Claims for defective work are generally subject to a 10-year longstop from when the work was done, as well as the usual limitation rules.

Some defendants may no longer exist or have insurance, which affects what can realistically be recovered.

The Weathertight Homes Resolution Service can help with eligible claims. A building lawyer can assess who's liable and whether a claim is worth pursuing.

Written by Lawmateanz, not by a lawyer. General information only, not legal advice about your situation. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer.

Lawyer answers

Lawyers listed on Lawmateanz can answer this question. If you asked it, we'll email you as soon as it's answered.

Need help now? Get matched with a lawyer

Are you a lawyer? Answer this question · List free on Lawmateanz

Related questions

More about Leaky Buildings & Weathertightness →

General information only. Answers are written by independent lawyers based only on what's in the question. They aren't legal advice about your situation and don't create a lawyer–client relationship. For advice about your own matter, talk to a lawyer directly.

Ask your own questionGet matched with a lawyer