It's been suggested up front checks could be the solution to building consent delays

The New Zealand Institute of Building Surveyors says about 64 percent of applications are paused because councils request extra information.

President David Clifton says bringing in surveyors earlier could help prevent those mistakes before projects land on the council's desks.

He says while there's an up front cost - the investment pays off quickly.

Clifton says it will mean fewer delays which will drive the cost down over the life of the project.