Quality Timber Homes from 1880 Cottage Company

Got a question about our quality heritage timber homes? It may well be answered below – but if not, please contact us.

Q: Will 1880 modify their standard plans for our particular needs?
A: Yes. We are known for our flexibility and commitment to customer satisfaction. Contact us to see why and discuss if design alterations could enhance your project outcome.

Q: Will 1880 assist with the council building consent process?
A: Yes. 1880 Cottage Company supplies everything you need to secure a building consent. We are happy to answer questions and supply the required information to ensure you achieve the desired outcome. We understand the district plan rule with all regional authorities and will smooth the process of resource consents through to building consent. This is a consultancy service we provide with qualified personnel.

Q: What do you supply with your kitset homes?
A: Unlike some competitors, the ply floor and subfloor materials are included. Even the delivery charges are included in our price (within specified limits). Check our specifications page for a complete list of materials. All materials are delivered from your nearest PlaceMakers Branch. minimising transport charges.

Q: Do you have a list of approved builders throughout New Zealand?
A: Yes, we have access to builders nationally, or we are happy to work with you if you have a preferred, qualified, licensed builder. Should you have your own LBP we would be pleased to provide an upfront fee to take your design through to consent and transition the project to your LBP for construction.

Q: Do we need a certified builder to assemble an 1880 kitset?
A: Yes, the current building code requires that all trade-related work is completed by a licensed practitioner.

As of March 2012 the New Zealand Department of Building and Housing requires all building practitioners be licensed for any work requiring a building consent. However, DIYers that sign a declaration they individually own and occupy a cottage, will still be permitted to construct our kitset shell. Many parts of the assembly can be completed without the declaration. These include lining, installation of doors, windows, and joinery or most non-structural elements. For building controls and Building Act information call Freephone 0800 242 243

Like any building project the finished results are directly related to the competency and experience of the builder. Although we supply plans, specifications and a construction manual, these will not make up for a lack of basic building experience, so choose a builder carefully.

Q: How are your kitsets delivered?
A: Unless otherwise requested by the Builder, Materials are  to arrive in 4 deliveries:

1. All preliminary set out, housekeeping, measured piles and materials to support the as the first delivery. This delivery is not included within the kitset pricing as it is very site specific.
2. The first major delivery includes, floor, subfloor materials including floor insulation.
3. Delivery two will include Pre-Nailed Frames, Trusses and all framing materials. This will complete to a stage where roof, and windows can be readied.
4. Exterior windows, roof materials, exterior cladding sub-trades are then coordinated. If a kitset or weathertight shell is ordered then relevant sub trades will be required to attend to ensure penetrations are flashed in a compliant manner.
5. Final delivery includes all interior insulation, lining and finishing timbers.

Q: Can we build our 1880 Cottage on a concrete slab?
A: Yes.

Q: I want to build an 1880 Cottage Co home on my site – what do I do first?
A: Respond using the form appropriate to your enquiry on the Contact page here. If you are ready to go, specify:

• Address of the property.
• The model preferred.
• Your budget boundaries for the project
• Your time frame for completion should the 1880 Cottage proposal meet your expectations.