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Retaining walls are a fantastic way to transform your clients’ outdoor spaces, while adding value to their homes by creating more usable land. In this article, Mitre 10 explores the best processes and products to achieve optimum results

Whether you’re levelling a sloped section, creating garden beds, or adding structure to your client’s landscaping, a well-built retaining wall can make a significant difference. However, they are also a major investment, and the last thing your client wants after spending time and money is to face compliance issues, wall failure, or even a damaging notation on their property’s LIM report when they come to sell.

So, how do you ensure your client’s retaining wall is compliant and built to last? Let’s break it down.

Do you consent?

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) provides clear guidance on when a retaining wall requires consent. According to their website (and the article on page 8), retaining walls under 1.5m in height without any surcharge (additional loadings such as driveways, buildings, or tiered walls above) are generally exempt from requiring consent. However, if the wall is taller than 1.5m, or if there is any surcharge above it, you’ll likely need a consent.

It’s important to note that tiered retaining walls, even if each tier is under 1.5m, can still fall outside the exemption if they create additional load on the lower walls.

Choosing the right system

When it comes to building a retaining wall, safety and compliance should be top priorities – without compromising the appeal of the wall. That’s why the Allan Block system from Bowers Brothers Concrete is a popular choice for homeowners and professionals.

Even if the wall doesn’t need a consent, it is still a critical structure and must be designed correctly. Soil types vary significantly throughout New Zealand, and the wall must be designed to withstand the loads applied by the soil behind. A cubic metre of soil generally weighs nearly two metrics tons, so even a small wall is doing a lot of work. Drainage also needs to be considered – it’s an important factor in every retaining wall and a critical part of the design.

One of the standout benefits of the Allan Block system is the wealth of technical support available. Bowers Brothers provides guidance on when a consent is required, standard wall details, free initial concepts, and even recommendations for local engineers, who can provide additional expertise if needed. By choosing the Allan Block system, you can have confidence in a compliant, crafted creation that enhances your client’s home.

Enhance your client's home with confidence

Retaining walls are a significant investment and, with the right approach, they can add immense value to your client’s home.

Before you start your client’s project, make sure everyone understands the consent requirements. It’s the best way to ensure the retaining wall is a safe, compliant and beautiful addition to their home.

Note: with the right approach, they can add immense value to your client’s home.

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