Property information and LIMs
If you would like to view information held on file for your property or require a Land Information Memorandum (LIM report) for a property you own or have an interest in, we can help. We hold information on every property in our district.
We strongly recommend you order a LIM report if you are considering a property purchase.
Property information requests
Who is responsible for property information?
The property information officer is responsible for providing information from property or consent records and public access to files. Access to council files is done on an ‘appointment only’ basis. We endeavour to provide public access to files within a period of 24 hours.
How do I view property information?
- Contact us to make an appointment on 0800 492 452.
- Or complete a Request for Property Information form. This form can be returned to us by post, faxed to 07 824 8091 or at one of our offices. Forms are also available at any one of our offices.
Information for former Franklin residents
Property information for former Franklin district properties now part of the Waikato district is available to view at our Tuakau office.
Fees and Charges
Charges for viewing property information is $34.00 per half hour of time taken to complete the property information request. An appointment to view the physical property file is charged at $34.00. These fees and charges are outlined on page 92 in the Waikato District Council Fees and Charges schedule.
Liability of property information
Waikato District Council has made the information available under Sections 10 to 18 (inclusive) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987. The council does not warrant its accuracy and disclaims all liability whatsoever of any error, inaccuracy or incompleteness of the information. No person should rely on any information without seeking appropriate independent and professional advice.
The information provided does not constitute a Land Information Memorandum or any similar document.
Land Information Memorandum (LIM)
NB: Due to very high demand the Council is currently unable to offer an urgent LIM service. We are working to rectify the situation and we expect to be in a position to begin accepting urgent LIM applications again soon. Our apologies for any inconvenience this may cause.
A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) is a report on a particular piece of land, prepared by the council at your request. The information on a property is compiled from information and details held on file and database at your local council.
Why get a LIM?
If you are buying a property, a LIM may answer some important questions about the property and any associated buildings (especially if you intend to carry out alterations/additions or subdivide). If you are selling a property a LIM is a way of informing potential buyers. A LIM provides you the opportunity to discuss any concerns you may have regarding council requirements, matters or issues and to obtain advice from your solicitor. Banks and insurance companies may require a LIM to protect their investment.
What information is included?
The information you may get from a LIM will vary between councils. Generally the LIM report will provide information known by the council such as:
- Special land features and potential hazards (such as erosion or subsidence)
- District Plan information (such as zoning or Heritage listings)
- Consents, certificates, notices, orders or requisitions affecting the land or buildings and rates information (such as current rating valuation and arrears)
- Water and waste services (such as plans)
What information is not included?
- Information in relation to State Highways. Please contact your local NZTA office
- Plans for and activities on any parks and reserves in the vicinity of the property
- Network utilities - electricity and gas and telephone connections. Information may be obtained from the relevant utility companies. Non-notified resource consent applications in process on the subject site. (Waikato District Council does provide this information on LIMs)
- Any decisions on adjacent property
How do I get a LIM?
Complete and submit a LIM Application Form, (copies are also available at any Waikato District Council office) along with the appropriate fee.
You will need to provide:
- A completed application form
- Street address
- Legal description eg Lot & DP/S current owner
- A current certificate of title (refer application form). There is a $20 fee to obtain a certificate of title for Waikato District Council
Your application form and payment can be posted or delivered to any of our offices. If posting please include a cheque made payable to Waikato District Council. Please note Waikato District Council does not accept credit card payments.
The fees to obtain a LIM report are:
Former Waikato district:
- Waikato area urban Lim $190.00 plus $65.00 if it is required as an urgent LIM
- Rural LIM $265.00 plus $65.00 if it is required as an urgent LIM
- Commerical/industrial $320.00 plus $65.00 if it is required as an urgent LIM
Former Franklin area now part of the Waikato:
- Standard fee $226.20 - urgent fee $289.30 – three day service
- Commercial property minimum charge $226.60 for the first three hours plus $39.90 per half hour thereafter.
The council is required to provide a LIM within 10 working days.
Important Notes
Only a current LIM is valid for the purposes of a Sale and Purchase Agreement. A LIM report does not include a physical inspection of the property. You should always compare the information on the LIM with what is on the property as the council may not have been notified of something concerning the property. There is no guarantee that the information about a property (especially old information) exists. A LIM should not be confused with a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) which has a different use and purpose.
For further information about LIM’s or property information please call us on 0800 492 452 or email the property information officer.