Owner Builders

The expertise of the team at ACT Certification lies in residential construction Building Approvals and compliance advice. We specialise in offering comprehensive services tailored to meet the unique needs of projects being completed by Owner Builders.

Our focus extends to providing expert, tailored advice to Owner Builders on ACT planning rules and regulations, and ensuring compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and various other Australian Standards. What sets us apart is our commitment to tailoring the Building Approval process specifically to the needs of an Owner Builder. Recognising that in some instances an Owner Builder may be a licenced Builder who is completing the construction for their own person project, or a client who will be completing a construction project for the first time. By engaging with all stakeholders involved, we strive to create a collaborative environment that ensures a streamlined Building Approval process. This collaborative approach not only enhances efficiency but also guarantees that your project moves seamlessly through the necessary channels, meeting all regulatory requirements and standards.

The following Legislation, Regulations and Australian Standards are required to be adhered to during the approval process for projects being constructed by an Owner Builder:

ACT Territory Plan

ACT Planning Building Approval Requirements

National Construction Code (NCC)

ACT Legislation

Australian Standards

In addition, clients intending to complete their project using an Owner Builder license should ensure they are aware of the Construction Licence requirements in the ACT.

WHY CHOOSE US

We specialise in supporting Owner Builders from initial approval and throughout the construction process.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • You must undertake the relevant course/training in order to be considered eligible to obtain your Owner Builders Licence from the ACT Government.

    You will not be able to apply for Owner Builder Licence to the ACT Government until the Building Approval for your project has been issued by ACT Certification.

    Once your Owner Builder Licence has been issued by the ACT Government you will need to provide evidence of the Licence to ACT Certification, you will then be issued with the Building Commencement Notice, and construction can commence.

    To find out more information regarding Owner Builder Licence’s and the responsibilities as the Builder. Visit the ACT Government Planning website.

  • ACT Certification is unable to assist with this as it is a conflict of interest against our COLA Licence acting as the Appointed Building Certifier. In addition, any and all correspondence relating to Site Inspections and/or rectification requirements noted on such inspections will be directed to you as the Builder, not the/an individual trade or sub-contractor.

  • The team at ACT Certification are here to help with your enquiries as best we can and deliver you a service that exceeds expectations. Whilst we are unable to design or engage other services for you, we can guide you through the requirements of the planning, approval and construction stages.

  • Depending on the type of project you can expect a maximum of 4 compulsory site inspections will be conducted. Examples of inspection stages are Piers, Footings, Slab, Pre-Sheet and Final.

  • Yes, as an Owner Builder you take on any and all responsibilities for the site, construction and management of different trades/sub-contractors the same as a Licensed Builder. Attending Site Inspections with the Building Certifier is required to ensure items or defects discussed during the inspection can be actioned appropriately.

  • Visit our ‘Book an Inspection’ page

    All inspections must be booked via our online booking form, and we request a minimum 2-3 business days notice for an inspection. Please note that we specify on our quotes the number of inspections included in our service fee. Any additional inspections will be charged at an additional rate.