Resources

Appointed Building Surveyors are committed to providing industry professionals, developers, and property owners access to reliable and up-to-date information on building regulations, compliance requirements, and best practices. This Resources page links to key industry websites, including the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and the Building Plumbing Commission (BPC). These resources provide essential guidance on regulatory standards, building codes, and permit requirements.

The guide below outlines the essential steps involved in the building permit process, ensuring a clear understanding of the approvals required for a compliant and successful project.

A Basic Guide to the Building Permit Process - Residential

For those navigating the building permit process, the guide below outlines the essential steps involved, providing a clear understanding of the approvals required for a compliant and successful project.

- Identify project scope and zoning requirements.
- Engage professionals (architects, engineers, building surveyors).
  - Complete a Letter of Appointment and Fee Acceptance.
- Conduct preliminary discussions with your local council and private building surveyor.
- Prepare required documentation (site plans, architectural drawings, structural calculations).
- Complete and submit the building permit application form - (Form 1)
- Include required documents:
- Site plan, floor plans, elevations.
- Structural and civil engineering plans.
- Energy efficiency compliance report.
- Bushfire, flood, or other special reports (if applicable).
- Pay the required application fees.
- The building surveyor assesses:
  - Compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and local regulations.
    Structural integrity and fire safety requirements.
    Environmental and accessibility considerations.
    Protection works notices (If required, need to action ASAP)
    Performance solutions (If required, need to engage a consultant).
    Liveable Housing Design Standard
  - Request for additional information or corrections (if needed).
  - Coordination with other departments (e.g., planning, environmental, heritage).
- If approved:
  - Building permit is issued.
  - Permit conditions are outlined.
- If rejected:
  - Applicant must revise and resubmit documents based on feedback.
- Builder commences work in accordance with the approved plans.
- Mandatory inspections are conducted at key stages (Pre-footing, Steel Inspection, frame & final).
- Variations to the permit (if required) must be approved before proceeding
- A final site inspection is conducted by the Building Surveyor or a Registered Building Inspector.
- Request for Additional Compliance Certificates (where applicable & is not limited to):
  - Final as-built plans (if required).
  - Termite treatment certificate (if applicable).
  - Fire safety compliance certificate.
  - Waterproofing certificate.
  - Plumbing certificate
  - Electrical certificate
  - Glazing certificate
  - Builders Statement
  - Application Form for Certificate of Final Inspection (Form 15) or Application Form for Occupancy Permit (Form 15) to be completed where applicable.
- Issue of Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection:
  - If compliant, the Occupancy Permit (for new buildings) or Certificate of Final Inspection (for minor works) is issued.
  - If non-compliant, rectifications must be completed before re-inspection.
- Once the occupancy permit is granted, the building can be legally occupied.