Building Approval Process and Timeframe
Building permits
A building permit is a written approval certifying the proposed building’s compliance with the applicable building regulations. This document grants permission to carry out the ‘building work’ (defined as work for, or in connection with the construction, demolition or removal of a building under Building Act 1993), based on approved documentation, such as plans and specifications.
Obtaining a building permit protects the owner by ensuring that:
- The building experts involved in a project are all registered and hold the required insurance.
- The construction is carried out properly based on adequate documentation and building legislation.
- Important phases of the work are separately inspected.
- The building is suitable for occupation.
Before taking any steps, it is imperative to determine whether the building permit is required or not by considering the zoning and overlays that apply to the particular property. There are some possible exemptions to this, including minor alterations or demolitions and repair work for maintenance purposes. More information can be obtained here: When is a building permit required?
Prior to applying for a building permit
Prior to applying for a building permit, a registered building surveyor should be appointed who will need your permission and written authorisation to obtain a building permit on your behalf.
Who is a building surveyor and what are their responsibilities?
A building surveyor is an expert on the building process. They are accountable for ensuring the accessibility, safety and energy efficiency of the building. These experts are involved throughout the duration of the building work and carry out regular inspections to ensure the work complies with legal requirements. Any occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection can be issued by the building surveyor upon the completion of the work.
Occupancy permit
An occupancy permit is a document that confirms the building is suitable for occupation. According to Building Act 1993, it is against the law to occupy a building before receiving the permit.
Certificate of final inspection
A certificate of final inspection is issued by the building surveyor for extensions or alterations to existing buildings (including homes), as well as other outbuildings that do not require an occupancy permit.
How to appoint a building surveyor
There are two types of building surveyors:
- Private building surveyors, which can only be appointed by the owner or the owner’s agent.
- Municipal (local council) building surveyors, which can be appointed through applying to your local council for a building permit or by visiting the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors website.
How to apply for a building permit?
To apply for a building permit, you are required to:
- Submit the completed application form with three copies of allotment plans, drawings and specifications, and
- Pay the building permit levy (either yourself or the authorised person).
What is a building permit levy?
A building permit levy is calculated in accordance with the cost of the building work. The levy should be paid directly to the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) by the owner or the authorised person on the owner’s behalf.
Timeframe for the building work commencement and completion
Extension request
In failure to commence and complete the proposed work within a set timeframe, the building surveyor can request for an extension, but only if the prescribed time is not reached. Granting an extension also depends on whether the remaining works can warrant it.
References
- Victorian Building Authority. 2021. Planning and building permits. [online] Available at: https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/home-renovation-essentials/permits.
- Vicsmartguide.com.au. 2021. Planning permits vs building permits in Victoria | The Complete VicSmart Guide. [online] Available at: https://vicsmartguide.com.au/vicsmart-planning-permit/application-forms-checklists/planning-permits-vs-building-permits-in-victoria.