Building approvals in QLD

A building permit is needed before any construction on your home can begin.

You or your builder must lodge a building development application and have it assessed by either a private building certifier or a local authority. The building development approval will specify what stages of the construction process require a building inspection.


Building inspections

The certifier who issues your building development approval will be required to inspect your home at the following stages of construction:

  1. Footing
  2. Slab
  3. Frame
  4. Final
If they're unable to do the inspections they must authorise a competent person to conduct the inspections instead. The purpose of these inspections is not to judge the quality of work, it's to ensure the work complies with the approved plans and relevant building standards.


Building approval QLD Brisbane


Accessing the building site

You have a right to enter the worksite during the building process, provided you put your request in writing, your inspection won't obstruct the works and you comply with any reasonable direction by the builder in regards to workplace health and safety.

Communication is the key to a successful building project and avoiding disputes. Make sure you keep in regular contact with your builder (not their subcontractors) during construction to check on progress and discuss any queries or variations you would like to make.


Building consultants

During the building process or at completion of the work, you may need to seek the advice of a building consultant.

Building consultants perform a range of services, including:

For more information contact Australian Property & Building Inspections on 1300 657 546.