Plumbers, Gasfitters
and Drainlayers Board
Exemption from the minimum standards of registration
Application for exemption from the minimum standards of registration
In certain situations, the Board can approve an exemption from the minimum standards for registration or to hold a licence. These requirements are set out in the Plumbers Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006 (the Act) along with the exemption criteria.
You will need to give sufficient reasons why you should be exempt from a particular requirement. This information will need to assure the Board that you are competent and mitigate the fact you do not meet the legislative requirements.
The Board will only issue an exemption if they are satisfied that you have the experience and skills required of a New Zealand practitioner at the level of registration/licence you are applying for. It is important you understand your trade as defined in New Zealand in our Act and the licence type that you are applying for.
How do I apply for an exemption from the minimum standards of registration?
As a basic outline, the application process involves:
- submitting your application and paying for the application
- you will be sent an initial assessment letter, which will provide you with some feedback before your application is presented to the Board
- your application will be considered at the Board’s next meeting – these occur every six weeks.
Please read our information guide and evidence guide (under forms and documents) as they will outline the following:
- how to submit your application
- what types of exemptions you can apply for
- what types of evidence you should provide with your application
- how long an application takes and what the process is.
How much does it cost?
Applications for an exemption are set on a full cost recovery basis. That means that the fee charged is the cost of the Board delivering that service.
You may receive a refund or a further invoice at the end of your application depending on the time and resources used to review your application. The initial amount charged will be $1,200.00.
It is important that you submit a complete application and evidence to avoid additional costs.
What happens if my application is approved?
You will be issued a formal letter outlining the Board’s decisions and your next steps. You will need to submit a registration application and pay an additional fee.
What happens if you application is declined?
You have two opportunities for your application to be considered by the Board
If your application is preliminary declined, we will issue you a letter that outlines the feedback from the meeting. You will be given an opportunity to provide further evidence or information to assist with your application when the Board meets to make its final decision at the second meeting.
If your application is declined during the second meeting, you will be issued with a letter informing you of the Boards decision and which registration pathways you will need to follow.
Forms and documents