What Is a Building Certifier?

A Building Certifier is an accredited professional responsible for assessing and certifying that your construction project complies with the relevant building regulations and codes.



In most states and territories, a Building Certifier must issue a Building Approval before any construction can begin. They also conduct key inspections during and after construction — such as Frame and Practical Completion — to ensure the work is completed safely and legally.

What Does a Building Certifier Do?

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


Typically, a Building Certifier will:

  • Review your construction documentation for compliance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA)
  • Issue the Building Approval certificate required before construction can start
  • Conduct required inspections at key stages (such as Frame and Practical Completion)
  • Provide written reports and certificates confirming compliance
  • Respond to Requests for Information (RFIs) if further clarification is needed during approvals


They act as an independent authority to ensure your build meets all legal requirements.

Tip: Streamline Your Approval and Inspection Process

To avoid costly delays, confirm inspection dates well in advance — especially for the Frame and Practical Completion stages. Building Certifiers can book out weeks ahead, and any missed or delayed inspections could halt progress on site. Stay proactive with scheduling and always double-check your task timeline in the Build Buddy app.

What Makes a Good Building Certifier?

A good Building Certifier will:

  • Be accredited and licensed to operate in your local area
  • Have clear and consistent communication processes
  • Respond promptly to RFIs or documentation queries
  • Offer competitive pricing and a clear breakdown of what’s included
  • Be available for key inspections within your project timeline
  • Have a reputation for working professionally with owner builders


Certifiers who understand the needs of owner builders — and don’t assume you have trade experience — will make your project much smoother.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To request quotes from Building Certifiers for your Building Approval, you’ll need:

  • Final construction drawings (not drafts)
  • Your approved Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC)
  • BASIX Certificate (if required in your state)
  • Structural engineering documentation (if available)
  • Site details including title reference and zoning info
  • Any council or planning authority conditions that apply

Glossary

Below is a breakdown of each key step involved in getting your project officially approved and inspected.

Term Definition
Procure Request quotes from a Building Certifier to complete the building approval works
Building Approval Get official permission to start your build. This usually comes from a certifier after reviewing your plans, reports, and other required documents.
Frame Inspection A licensed certifier visits your site to check that your wall and roof frames are built correctly and match your approved plans. This step must happen before you continue with cladding or internal linings.
Practical Completion Inspection A final inspection by the certifier once all major works are complete. They check that your build meets code and is ready to be signed off.
Complete Confirm that all inspections have passed and all approval documents are finalised. You’re now ready to move on to handover or the next stage of your project.

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

  • Do I need to engage the same Building Certifier for all inspections?

    Yes. The Building Certifier who issues your Building Approval must be the same one who completes the mandatory inspections. Changing Certifiers mid-project is generally not allowed.

  • What’s the difference between a Building Approval and a DA or CDC?

    A Development Application (DA) or Complying Development Certificate (CDC) gives you planning consent. The Building Approval is a separate process that certifies your construction complies with building standards and codes. You need both before work can start.

  • Can I manage bookings for inspections directly through Build Buddy?

    Not yet. You’ll need to contact your Building Certifier directly to schedule inspections, but you can track all dates and upload certificates via the Build Buddy app.

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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.