What is a Heritage Consultant or Architect?

A Heritage Consultant or Architect is a qualified professional who assesses how your proposed works may affect a heritage-listed site or conservation area. They prepare a Heritage Impact Report (HIR) that helps support your development application and ensures compliance with heritage planning laws.

What does a Heritage Consultant or Architect do?

Your Heritage Consultant or Architect will complete works according to your agreed scope of works.


Typically, a Heritage Consultant or Architect will:

  • Assess your site and determine if it’s heritage-listed or within a conservation zone
  • Review your development plans in relation to the site's heritage values
  • Identify potential impacts on the character, fabric, or significance of the site
  • Recommend strategies to minimise or mitigate any negative impacts
  • Prepare a detailed Heritage Impact Report (HIR) for submission to council or the Heritage Office


Their input helps you avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring your design respects historical guidelines and planning requirements.

Tip: Check for Heritage Controls Early — Even If Your Home Isn’t Listed

Even if your building isn’t individually heritage-listed, being in a conservation area may trigger heritage reporting requirements — check your zoning certificate (Section 10.7) early!

What to look for in a Heritage Consultant or Architect

When reviewing quotes, look for:

  • Accreditation: Look for membership with ICOMOS or similar heritage associations.
  • Experience: Choose professionals who have worked on similar heritage or conservation projects.
  • Council familiarity: Consultants familiar with your local council’s heritage controls can streamline the approval process.
  • Report quality: Their reports should balance heritage sensitivity with practical solutions.
  • Communication skills: They should be able to liaise clearly with council planners and your architect.

Before You Begin: What You’ll Need Ready

To get quotes from a Heritage Consultant or Architect for a Heritage Impact Report, you’ll need:

  • Site address and zoning certificate (Section 10.7)
  • Proposed development drawings (floor plans, elevations)
  • Photographs of the site and surrounding context
  • Any relevant heritage listings or previous approvals
  • Your project timeline for DA submission

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

  • Is a Heritage Impact Report always required for heritage sites?

    Most councils require one if your site is heritage-listed or within a heritage conservation area, even for minor works.

  • What if my design negatively impacts heritage value?

    Your consultant will work with you and your architect to suggest adjustments. The aim is to balance your goals with preservation standards.

  • How long does a Heritage Impact Report take to complete?

    Allow 2–4 weeks, depending on complexity and council requirements. Early engagement is key to avoiding DA delays.

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.