What is the Building Approval Plans stage?

This stage involves preparing your formal set of construction-ready plans. These drawings are used to gain building approval and will guide you and your trades during construction. They reflect your final layout and major selections, and must align with engineering, energy, and planning requirements.

What Does a Building Designer Do?

Your Building Designer will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Building Designer will:

  • Prepare a full set of Building Approval Plans based on your concept design and selections
  • Include all required documentation: floor plans, elevations, roof plan, sections, window and door schedules, and site plan
  • Add detailed annotations and layouts needed for building approval and construction
  • Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) from your certifier or planning authority, making revisions as required
  • Ensure the plans are accurate, approval-ready, and aligned with your external selections and build requirements


A good building designer must produce documents based on best practices. Click the button to download Build Buddy's Building Design and Documentation Standards.

Before You Begin: What You'll Need Ready

To begin this task, you’ll need:

  • Finalised concept plans and confirmed layout
  • Site survey and any required engineering inputs
  • Your key external selections (roof, windows, cladding, etc.)
  • Feedback from council or previous planning stages (if applicable)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I still make design changes during this stage?

    Minor adjustments are okay, but major changes to layout or façade at this point can delay approvals and may incur rework fees. Try to finalise your design before this stage begins.

NEED HELP?

Reach Out to Your Build Buddy Pro

If you have any questions or need a hand, your Build Buddy Pro is your best first contact. They’re a licensed expert in their field and can understand the ins and outs of your project. You can message them via the platform, or you can call them directly.


If you have already contacted your Build Buddy Pro and still need further assistance, the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team are here to help. They will be able to guide you on your next steps or help you find answers to any questions you may have.