Building certification

Building certification is the approval of the construction of most buildings and structures also described as 'building approval' or 'development approval'.

Prior to 1998, a council 'building inspector' used to approval all building work. However, legislation was changed by the State Government in 1998 to enable building certifiers not employed by council to approve building works. 

Building inspections

The carrying out of inspections for approved building work is the responsibility of the building certifier who issued the permit.

The building certifier's name and telephone contact number can usually be found on a document entitled 'Decision Notice' (i.e. permit) issued with the approved plans for the building work. The building certifier is required by law to give the owner of a property a copy of building permit documents within five business days of the permit being issued.

Final inspections for building work approved prior to July 1998 can be requested by contacting council.

Property owner obligations

The property owner is ultimately responsible for ensuring that the necessary permits are obtained prior to the commencement of any building work on a property. 

These may include:

• For proposed building work that does not comply with the setback provisions contained within the planning schemes and Queensland Development Code as applicable
• For proposed building work that does not comply with the planning schemes
• With regard to the proximity of proposed building work to council maintained sewer, stormwater, and water mains
• In relation to amenity and aesthetics

For more information about the Building Certification process contact the Queensland Building Services Authority or private building certifiers.

Plumbing inspections

Council is still required to approve and inspect plumbing and drainage work and these can be organised through council.

Archived records

Council is required to archive approval documents lodged by private certifiers in accordance with the Sustainable Planning Act 2009. 

Contact council for a copy of previous approval records or for more information.