Wellington LIM Reports in 2026: What Home Sellers Need to Know
October 1, 2026
Key Takeaways
• A LIM report summarises the information Wellington City Council holds about your property.
• Since 2025, natural hazard information appears in a dedicated, standardised section of the LIM.
• A hazard notation is not a finding that your home has been damaged.
• Reviewing your LIM before you list helps you answer buyers' questions with confidence.
If you're selling a house in Wellington, reviewing your Land Information Memorandum (LIM) early is one of the simplest ways to prepare. This guide explains what a Wellington LIM report shows, what changed in 2025, and how to get ready before buyers start asking questions.
What Is a LIM Report?
A LIM report is an official council document that summarises the information the council holds about a property. For Wellington homes, it's issued by Wellington City Council.
Depending on the property, it may include:
• Building consents: Records of consented building work.
• Drainage information: Stormwater and wastewater records.
• Natural hazards: Information about flooding, erosion, landslips and other identified hazards.
• Planning information: Zoning and planning provisions.
• Council notices: Notices or requirements affecting the property.
• Rates information: Rating details held by council.
A LIM reflects what the council holds on record. It isn't a building inspection or a guarantee of a property's condition.
What's the Difference Between a LIM and a Property File?
A LIM summarises council information, while a property file holds the underlying records.
If your home has been renovated or extended, the property file can help you find the plans and consents that give buyers useful context.
What Changed on Wellington LIMs in 2025?
Natural hazard information on LIMs is now clearer and more consistent across New Zealand. Two changes drove this.
From 1 July 2025, regional councils must provide the natural hazard information they hold to city and district councils, which include it in LIMs. In Wellington, this means information held by Greater Wellington Regional Council may now appear in your LIM.
From 17 October 2025, the Local Government (Natural Hazard Information in Land Information Memoranda) Regulations 2025 set a standard format. Hazard information now sits in its own dedicated section, with plain language summaries in some cases.
For many Wellington homeowners, this simply means information that was already held is now presented more visibly.
Does a Hazard Notation Mean Something Is Wrong With My Home?
No. A hazard notation means your property sits within an area where a hazard has been identified or mapped. It is not a finding that your home has been damaged.
For example:
• A property may sit within a mapped flood area without any history of flooding.
• A landslip notation may reflect the wider terrain rather than an issue with the home itself.
• Coastal information may be based on modelling of possible future conditions, not a current physical issue.
Councils aren't required to carry out new investigations for each LIM. If something is unclear, your agent, the council or a suitably qualified professional can help.
What Natural Hazards Can Appear on a Wellington LIM?
The most common are flooding, slope instability and coastal hazards, reflecting Wellington's hills, harbour and coastline.
Flooding and Stormwater
Notations may relate to overland flow paths or flood mapping. It helps to know whether any drainage work has been done and whether there's any history of flooding.
Slope and Landslip
For hillside homes, geotechnical reports or retaining wall consents can give useful context.
Coastal Hazards
For properties near the coast, notations may draw on modelling that includes sea level rise.
Having supporting documents ready, such as consents, engineering reports or records of past work, helps buyers understand the full picture.
Does Flood Risk Affect House Value in NZ?
There's no single answer. It depends on the property, the nature of the notation and the supporting information available.
Some buyers will look into it further or check with their insurer or lender. Others will be comfortable once they understand the context.
Clear information and supporting documents help buyers assess the property fairly. Your agent can help you present it accurately and in its best light.
Will a Hazard Notation Affect a Buyer's Insurance or Finance?
Not automatically. Insurers and lenders make their own assessments, and requirements vary.
Many buyers simply confirm their insurance and lending as part of their normal due diligence.
What Are the Disclosure Rules When Selling in Wellington?
Real estate agents must disclose known defects to buyers under the Real Estate Authority's Code of Conduct. Where there may be a significant potential hidden defect, they must take appropriate steps, such as making sure buyers know so they can seek expert advice.
Agents also can't continue acting for a vendor who asks for this type of information to be withheld.
This works in your favour. Open, accurate information helps buyers decide with confidence and helps sales proceed smoothly. If your LIM raises a question, talk it through with your agent and solicitor early.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Wellington LIM take?
Councils aim to provide a LIM within 10 working days of receiving the application.
Do I have to provide a LIM to sell my house?
There's no legal requirement for vendors to provide one. However, many vendors choose to obtain a LIM before listing, and buyers commonly make offers conditional on reviewing one.
Does a hazard notation stop me from selling?
No. Properties with hazard notations are bought and sold regularly. Clear information and supporting documents help buyers make informed decisions.
What if I think information on my LIM is incorrect?
Contact the council to discuss it. Your agent or solicitor can also help you understand what's recorded.
Does a LIM replace a building inspection?
No. A LIM summarises council records. A building inspection assesses the physical condition of the home.
Thinking About Selling in Wellington?
Our team can help you understand your LIM and prepare your property for market with confidence. Book a free appraisal with Lowe & Co.
This article is general information only and isn't legal advice. Please speak with your solicitor about your specific property.
Sources & Further Reading
• Wellington City Council – LIM Reports
• Local Government (Natural Hazard Information in Land Information Memoranda) Regulations 2025
• Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 – Section 44A
