LIM reports now completely online

Getting information on Far North properties is now much easier, quicker and better for the environment.

Far North District Council has completed system changes so that all Land Information Memorandum (LIM) reports are now requested, paid for and delivered completely online.

A LIM report summarises all information held by the local authority on a particular property and will often include building and resource consents, information on land hazards, rates and rating valuations, District Plan information, and details about heritage or archaeological items. The reports usually run to many pages and were traditionally printed out and posted to requesters.

It is estimated that Far North District Council used up to seven boxes of A4 paper every week responding to LIM requests, and annually spent in excess of $10,000 on the paper for LIMs. Added to that were print, postage and transport costs.

Mayor John Carter says customers will see significant advantages with online LIMs. “While the fee for receiving this information has not changed, the new electronic reports provide far greater flexibility for customers. They can be shared easily and quickly with builders, real estate agents or property buyers, and can also be transported and viewed more easily on electronic devices.”

He says early indications from a soft launch of the new online reports show that those working in the property industry have been quick to embrace the electronic format.

“This change was not only desirable, but inevitable. I think ratepayers will be pleased that our expanding suite of digital services is making it easier to do business with us and is reducing our carbon footprint at the same time.” 

The final day to lodge a paper-based LIM application will be 25 September 2020. From then, only online applications will be accepted.

Anyone unable to lodge an online LIM request, can do so at a Council service centre. They will need to provide a copy of the Certificate of Title (available from Land Information New Zealand). They can also email the Certificate of Title to ask.us@fndc.govt.nz so staff can lodge the request on the customer’s behalf.

For step-by-step instructions on the application process, go to the Council website www.fndc.govt.nz and search for ‘How to apply for a LIM’.