HOW TO BECOME AN OWNER BUILDER IN VICTORIA
1. UNDERSTAND OWNER BUILDER RESPONSIBILITIES
As an owner-builder in Victoria, you will have certain responsibilities under the VBA regulations. These responsibilities include obtaining necessary permits, complying with building codes and regulations, ensuring the work is carried out by qualified tradespeople, managing the construction process, and organizing inspections.
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2. OBTAIN NECESSARY PERMITS
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3. COMPLY WITH BUILDING CODES AND REGULATIONS
As an owner-builder, you are responsible for ensuring that all construction work complies with the relevant building codes and regulations in Victoria. This includes the Building Code of Australia (BCA), which sets out the minimum requirements for the design and construction of buildings, and any local council requirements.
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4. ENGAGE QUALIFIED TRADESPEOPLE
5. MANAGE THE CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
As an owner-builder, you are responsible for managing the entire construction process, including coordinating tradespeople, ordering materials, and overseeing the quality of work. This includes regular site inspections to ensure that the work is being carried out to the required standard.
6. ORGANISE INSPECTIONS
You will need to arrange inspections at various stages of the construction process to ensure that the work complies with the building permit and relevant regulations. This includes inspections for footings, framing, plumbing, electrical, and final inspections. Inspections must be carried out by a registered building surveyor, and any defects identified during inspections must be rectified before proceeding to the next stage.
7. KEEP RECORDS
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8. OBTAIN INSURANCE
If you are planning to sell your owner-built home within 6 years and 6 months of obtaining the occupancy permit, you will need to obtain domestic building insurance, also known as home warranty insurance. This insurance provides coverage to subsequent owners in case of defects in the construction work.
9. FOLLOW SAFETY REGULATIONS
As an owner-builder, you are responsible for ensuring that the construction site is safe for workers, visitors, and the public. This includes complying with occupational health and safety regulations, providing appropriate safety equipment, and taking necessary precautions to prevent accidents and injuries.