What Is a Construction Certificate (CC)? 

Once your CDC or DA is approved, you’ll need a Construction Certificate (CC) before you can actually start building. This document confirms that: 


  • Your construction plans match your approval documents (DA/CDC + BASIX) 
  • Your plans meet NSW building regulations, codes, and standards 
  • All required documentation (like engineering plans) has been reviewed and approved 
  • You can’t pour a slab, dig footings, or begin construction without it — so this step is essential. 


A Building Certifier will do an assessment for your CC and then they will join you throughout your entire construction journey, performing scheduled inspections throughout.

What does a Building Certifier do?

Your Building Certifier will complete works according your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Building Certifier will:

  • Review all project documentation, including:
  • Architectural and structural plans
  • Approved BASIX Certificate
  • Construction specifications and site-specific reports
  • Confirm that your proposal complies with:
  • The National Construction Code (NCC)
  • Applicable Australian Standards
  • Local planning controls and conditions of consent from your DA
  • Coordinate with relevant consultants (e.g. structural, bushfire, or geotechnical engineers) to ensure compliance across all disciplines
  • Issue the Construction Certificate (CC), confirming your project is ready to begin physical works
  • Conduct mandatory inspections at key build stages, such as:
  • Piers and pads
  • Slab
  • Framing
  • Wet area waterproofing
  • Final completion
  • Provide all interim compliance certificates throughout the build
  • Issue the Final Occupation Certificate (OC) once the home is built and fully compliant


This process ensures your project is legally approved, technically sound, and built to meet safety and environmental standards.

Barry's Toolbox

Ask if the certifier can provide both the Construction Certificate and mandatory stage inspections (as part of a package). It’s one less thing to manage, and it’s often more cost-effective. 

What to Look for in a Building Certifier 

You’re after someone who: 

  • Is accredited to issue Construction Certificates under NSW legislation 
  • Can review your documents promptly and communicate clearly 
  • Offers a clear fee structure (avoid hidden charges) 
  • Will stay involved through construction (for inspections + Occupation Certificate)

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from Building Certifiers for your Construction Certificate (CC), you’ll need: 

  • Finalised construction drawings (not drafts) 
  • Your approved DA or CDC 
  • Your BASIX Certificate 
  • Structural engineering documents (if available now) 
  • Site information (e.g. title details, any previous reports) 

Average Timeframe

For this task, Pros typically provide quotes within 3–5 business days.

When Can I Expect Quotes?

Timeframes often vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g. a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

 

Don't be alarmed if you don't receive quotes or communication from any Build Buddy Pros straight away. Some work is more complex and the Pro may need time to comprehend your documents or scope of work. Depending on the job, there may even be some work required by the Pro before they are able to quote (e.g. a site visit might be required).

 

If the average timeframe indicated here has passed, and you have not received any messages or quotes, please feel free to contact the Build Buddy Expert Guidance and Support team for an update on quoting for this task.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • I’ve already got council approval (DA). Why do I still need a Construction Certificate (CC)?

    Getting a Development Approval (DA) means your design meets council planning rules. But before you can start building, you still need a Construction Certificate (CC). This certificate confirms that your construction drawings, engineering, and technical details meet the Building Code of Australia. It’s the final approval that gives you the legal go-ahead to begin construction.

Glossary

Below is a breakdown of each inspection your Building Certifier may carry out during construction. These checks ensure your project complies with all relevant building codes and regulations at critical stages.

Term Definition
Footing Inspection This inspection checks the trench or footing before concrete is poured for your retaining walls. The certifier confirms correct depth, reinforcement, and placement according to the approved engineering plans.
Core Filling Inspection Once your retaining wall blocks are laid, they need to be core filled (filled with concrete for strength). This inspection confirms the correct reinforcement and ensures the wall is structurally sound before the fill is poured.
Pier/Pad Inspection This is carried out before pouring concrete piers or pad footings. The certifier checks the location, depth, steel reinforcement, and stability of piers or pads that will support parts of the building — like posts, columns, or verandahs.
Slab on Ground (Steel) Inspection Just before your main slab is poured, the certifier checks the steel reinforcement and formwork. This inspection ensures that your slab is built to engineering specs and ready for concrete.
Blockwork Core Filling Inspection Similar to retaining walls, if your basement walls are made from concrete blocks, they must be core filled for strength. This inspection checks reinforcement and wall integrity before core fill goes in.
External Waterproofing Inspection Before your basement walls are backfilled (i.e. soil placed around them), this inspection ensures waterproofing membranes have been properly applied. This protects the basement from future leaks or moisture damage.
Suspended Slab (Steel) Inspection If your build includes a suspended concrete slab (a slab that’s not on the ground), the certifier checks steel reinforcement and structural formwork before the concrete is poured. This is critical in basement construction or multi-level builds.
Stormwater Drainage Connection Inspection This inspection checks the underground stormwater system on your property — including pits, pipes, and connections. The certifier ensures that runoff will be directed correctly and won’t cause flooding or drainage issues.
Frame Inspection After framing is complete (before walls and roof cladding go on), the certifier inspects the wall studs, floor joists, lintels, and roof structure. They’re checking that it matches plans and is safely tied down to withstand wind loads and movement.
Wet Area Flashing Inspection This is done before tiling or cladding goes up in wet areas (like bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens). The certifier checks waterproofing membranes and flashing to prevent future water leaks or structural damage.
Completion Inspection This final inspection is carried out when all work is complete. The certifier confirms that everything meets the Building Code of Australia, all mandatory inspections have passed, and the home is safe to occupy. Once approved, they’ll issue your Occupation Certificate, which is required to legally move in.

How to Complete this Task?

STEP 1

Review and Adjust the Scope of Works

Timeframes may vary based on demand and the type of Pro you're engaging (e.g., a plumber). If additional communication or clarification is needed, the quoting process may take longer.

STEP 2

Confirm Required Documents Are Uploaded

Check that the following required document(s) are uploaded for this task. These are essential to proceed:

STEP 3

Update the Quality Assurance Checklist

Go to the Quality Assurance tab in this task and review the checklist. Edit any details to suit your project requirements. Being clear and upfront helps set expectations with the Pro. Updating the checklist before requesting quotes ensures everyone is aligned.

STEP 4

Request Quotes

Click the orange ‘Request Quotes’ button to start the quoting process.

STEP 5

Review the Quotes

Once you receive quotes:

  • Review each one carefully, including the payment schedule and any special terms
  • Download attached quote documents for detailed review
  • Check each Pro’s profile and read past client reviews

STEP 6

Communicate with the Pro

If needed, message or call the Pro to clarify details or negotiate terms.

STEP 7

Accept a Quote

Choose the quote that best suits your needs. Once you accept a quote, any other pending quotes will be automatically declined. An agreement will automatically be generated.

STEP 8

Complete the Tasks In Your App

New tasks will appear to guide you through this job — follow each step carefully. Make sure to use the Quality Assurance Checklist, and refer to your contract and final Scope of Works whenever needed.

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.