Carrying out building work can be an exciting and satisfying process.
However, the building process has some pitfalls for those who are uninformed.
There are many things to consider before starting your building, such as whether your job requires a building permit or a planning permit (or both).
The Building Act 1993 (the Act) and Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations) legislate that all building work is subject to the issuing of a building permit, unless an exemption exists for the proposed work under the Regulations. This includes some minor alterations, demolitions and repair or maintenance work.
A building permit will specify that either an occupancy permit or a certificate of final inspection is required on completion of the building work.
If you are unsure please consult your municipal or private building surveyor whether your proposed building work requires a building permit.
In the information that follows, you will learn what permits and other paperwork may be necessary for your building work and the order in which you may require them. Importantly, you will discover that these documents, which are prescribed by Victorian building legislation, are designed to protect you.
