Council property records
Auckland property file vs LIM: what is the difference and when do you need each?
Compare an Auckland Council property file and LIM, what each may contain, and how to use them when buying or renovating a home.
A LIM is a council-prepared summary for a property. A property file is the collection of council-held documents associated with that address. They overlap, but they are not interchangeable.
What a LIM is designed to do
A LIM is issued by Auckland Council under statutory requirements and can include information about rates, consents, drainage, planning, hazards and other matters held by council. Check the council service page for current timing, fees and scope.
What a property file can add
Auckland Council describes the property file as containing records such as building and resource consents, plans, reports and correspondence. It can help you compare approved drawings with the building or investigate a particular alteration.
- Consent applications and approved plans
- Inspection and certificate records
- Engineering or specialist reports held by council
- Correspondence and historical property documents
Reconcile records rather than counting documents
Neither order proves that every physical feature is approved or compliant. Compare the title, LIM, property file, site and professional inspection. Ask targeted questions about gaps and inconsistencies.
Frequently asked questions
Is a property file the same as a LIM?
No. A LIM is a formal council memorandum; a property file is a collection of council-held records for the address.
Which is better for checking old renovations?
The property file may contain plans and consent documents useful for comparison, while the LIM may summarise relevant council information. Depending on the decision, both may be useful.
Does a clean LIM prove all work is consented?
No. Review the available plans and certificates against the building and obtain professional advice where alterations are uncertain.
Primary sources
- How to order a Land Information Memorandum (LIM) — Auckland Council
- Auckland Council provides LIM transparency for property categorisation — Auckland Council
This guide is general information, not planning, legal, engineering, building, insurance, or real estate advice. Official information and rules can change; verify the current source and obtain advice for your property.