FAQ -
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Please complete the following form and we will respond to you within approximately 48hrs.

Q: What are the benefits of Accredited Certifiers?

A: The benefits of the Private Certification system are peace of mind, quality assurance, timeliness of services, follow up procedures, and effective communication of requirements. Please refer to the section "Our services - why use us?"

Q: How do I know an Accredited Certifier will be acting in my interests as the owner of the building?

A: Accredited Certifiers are approved by an Accreditation body, who can suspend, discipline or expel the accredited person. A strict code of conduct is in place, ensuring that the activities of an accredited certifier are transparent, and in the interest of the owner and the community.

Q: Can an accredited certifier approve a building without the need to go to the Council ?

A: Yes. This is called complying development. Simple backyard extensions, garages, carports, swimming pools, decks, pergolas, can often be approved by us without the need to go to the Council. If the minor proposed work can be done within the fixed rules set by the Council (eg. Building must be 900 mm from the boundary), then a development application and construction certificate (building approval) may not be required. A complying development certificate is equivalent and can be issued within seven days.

Q: What is a construction certificate?

A: A construction certificate can be issued by us after you receive a development approval from the Council, and is required before you can start building work. It is a certificate confirming that if the building works are constructed in accordance with the approved drawings, the building will comply with the building safety codes and the Council requirements.

Q: When Can I start building work?

A: You may start building work 2 days after we have submitted your construction certificate and a "notice of commencement to start building work" into your Local Council.

Q: Do I need to contact the Council before I start work?

A: No. We do it for you. We send you a copy of proof that your Construction Certificate has been registered with the Council. There is no need for you to contact the Council.

Q: What is a Principal Certifying Authority?

A: The owner nominates either the Council or an Accredited Certifier as the principal certifying authority (PCA). This is done after the issue of the construction certificate (building approval). The PCA is responsible for ensuring that the works are constructed in accordance with the approved plans and the building codes. See the approval process for more information.

Q: When is the PCA required to do inspections of the building?

A: The PCA is required to inspections at the start of the project to ensure correct site management and sediment erosion controls are in place - wet area protection of bathrooms, external balconies and planter boxes, timber or metal framing, fire safety, hydraulic connections, and a final inspection. Other certification from suitably qualified persons such as a structural engineer can also be relied upon. Accredited Certifiers provide detailed written reports at each stage of construction.

Q: When is the Accredited Structural Engineer required to do inspections of the building?

A: The Accredited Structural Engineer is now required to certify not only commercial buildings, but he/she must also be accredited to certify residential work as well. He/She is required to inspect any piers, foundations and footings, reinforced concrete slabs before concrete is poured, any suspended reinforced concrete slabs, steel beam, lintels and any other reinforced structural members. The Accredited Structural Engineer must be nominated before work starts and must forward record of inspection to the Principal Certifying Authority.

Q: When can I move into my building?

A: Before you can move into your building Accredited Building Inspections must issue you with an Occupation Certificate. We are able to do this after we have done a final inspection of the building and are satisfied that the building is safe to be occupied. When you wish to receive the Occupation Certificate complete the attached Application for Occupation Certificate and return it when the final inspection of the building is completed.

Q: Do I need to send the Occupation Certificate to the Council?

A: No. We have sent your Occupation Certificate together with any supporting compliance documents in to the Council for you. You don’t need to send a copy. Please find attached for your information, the front cover sheet of the registered Occupation Certificate sent to the Council.

Q: When can I get my damage deposit back from the Council?

A: If you paid any damage deposits, for example, landscaping or footpath damage deposits, as required on your development approval, you are entitled to contact the Council to obtain your refund. You can obtain any damage deposit you paid to the Council after you receive your Occupation Certificate from us. However, we suggest you contact the Council approximately seven working days after we issue our Occupation Certificate, to ensure they have had time to register our Occupation Certificate. They may require you to complete a form or may record your request verbally. It is best to phone them first.

Q: What do I do with my Occupation Certificate?

A: Please don't lose it! It is an important document so file it safely. If you ever plan to sell your building, your conveyancing solicitor will need a copy of the Occupation Certificate to prove to any prospective purchaser that the building is consistent with the Council requirements and Building Codes.

Contact Accredited Certifiers for more information.

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