At IWH Building Surveyors & Consultants, we offer professional building permit services that provide expert guidance and assistance throughout the entire permit process. Our team of building surveyors and inspectors are dedicated to ensuring that your construction projects meet all necessary requirements and regulations. In this guide, we will provide you with everything you need to know about building permits, building surveyors, and building inspections.
Why Do You Need Building Permits?
Building permits are required by law to ensure that construction projects meet building standards, building regulations, and building codes. Not having a building permit can lead to legal issues, fines, and delays in your project timeline.
In Victoria, building permits are required for most construction projects, including new buildings, renovations, additions, and demolitions.
You will need a Building Permit for:
- A new construction
- Renovations & Alterations
- Additions to the existing building
- Demolitions of an existing building
- Works that adversely affect the safety of the public or occupiers of the building
- Works that adversely affect an essential safety measure relating to the building
The Benefits of Obtaining a Building Permit
Obtaining a building permit is essential to ensure that your construction project is safe, meets minimum building code standards, and is compliant with building regulations. Failing to obtain a building permit can result in fines, penalties, and legal action, as well as potential safety risks for the occupants of the building. By obtaining a building permit, you can have confidence that your construction project is in compliance with all relevant building regulations, Australian standards and National Construction Code of Australia.
The Role of a Building Surveyor and Building Inspectors
A building surveyor is a professional who is responsible for ensuring that construction projects meet all relevant building codes and regulations. Building surveyors are trained to review construction plans and specifications, inspect construction sites, and issue building permits. They are also responsible for conducting building inspections throughout the construction process to ensure that the building is constructed in compliance with the approved plans and specifications.
Building Inspections
Building inspections are an important part of the construction process and are typically conducted by a building inspector who is qualified to identify any potential non-compliance and ensures the construction is as per endorsed documents. Building inspections are required at various stages of the construction process, such as before the foundation is poured, after the framing is completed, and the final inspection.
The Process of Obtaining a Building Permit
Obtaining a building permit can be a complex and time-consuming process. The exact process can vary depending on your location, the type of construction project, and the specific requirements of your local Council. However, here is a general overview of the process we undertake for obtaining a building permit for you:
- Prepare your application
You will need to prepare construction documents that includes plans, specifications, and other required documents. At IWH Building Surveyors we help you with application to make sure you have it right the first time, so you can get on with the intricate details of completing your project. - Contact Us
Send through your quotation request including plans, cost of works and a description of your project - Appoint IWH Building Surveyors
Return your signed quotation to us along with your Application and Appointment Form and other supporting documents. - Review and approval
Your application will be reviewed by our team, who will ensure that your plans and specifications meet all relevant building codes and regulations. - Issuance of the Building Permit
Once your application is approved, you will be issued a building permit, which will allow you to begin construction on your project. - Mandatory Inspections
It will be the builders’ and your responsibility to make contact with IWH Building Surveyors when you are ready to book in your building inspection.
Benefits of Using IWH Building Surveyors & Consultants
Obtaining a building permit can be a complicated and time-consuming process, especially if you are not familiar with the requirements of Building Regulations and Codes. IWH Building Surveyors is here to help you navigate through the entire process efficiently. Here are some of the benefits of using our permit services:
- Expert Guidance
Our team of consultants has years of experience in the building permit process, so we can provide you with expert guidance throughout the entire process. - Time-saving
Obtaining a building permit can be a time-consuming process, with our tailored service, we can help issue your building permit in a prompt manner, allowing you to focus on your construction project. - Our Service
At IWH Building Surveyors we understand that each project is different and unique, therefore our service is customised and tailored to the project need. We review each job in a holistic approach to building code compliance hence providing you an overall valued service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Building Permit Services
- What is a building permit, and why do I need one?
A building permit is a legal document issued by the local government or a private building surveyor that authorises construction or renovation work to be done on a property. You need a building permit to ensure that the proposed building works comply with Building Regulations and Codes in Victoria. - How do I know if I need a building permit?
Most construction work requires a building permit in Melbourne and Victoria, including new construction, renovations, and extensions. It’s best to check with your local council or a private building surveyor (talk to us!) to determine if you need a permit. - What are the consequences of not obtaining a building permit?
Without a building permit, you risk the possibility of fines, legal issues, and potentially a non-compliant building. It’s essential to obtain a building permit to ensure that your construction project is safe and compliant. - What is the role of a building surveyor in the building permit process?
The role of the building surveyor is defined in part 6 of the Building Act 1993 and the National Construction Code (NCC) as an Appropriate Authority. The following is some of the statutory role of a Building Surveyor in Victoria:- Issuing of building permits
- Carrying out inspections
- Issuing of occupancy permits
Also, a building surveyor has the authority to determine if a method of construction satisfies the relevant Performance Requirement identified in the National Construction Code.
- Where can I find qualified building surveyors near me in Victoria?
You can find registered building surveyors near you in Victoria by checking the Victorian Building Authority website, or talk to us about your building project. Make sure to choose a qualified and experienced building surveyor to ensure your project’s success. - Do I need a building inspection in Victoria, and if so, when?
Yes, prescribe mandatory building inspections are required in Victoria throughout the construction process to ensure that the project is compliant as per the approved building permit and documents. The number and timing of inspections depend on the type and complexity of the project. For construction of new building or alterations to an existing building, the prescribed stages are:- Before placing a footing
- Before pouring an in-situ reinforced concrete member
- At completion of framework
- Inspection of fire and smoke resisting building elements
- Final, on completion of all building work
- What are the qualifications required to become a building surveyor in Victoria?
To become a building surveyor in Victoria, you need to have a relevant qualification, such as a Bachelor in Building Surveying. You also need to be registered with the Victorian Building Authority and have relevant work experience.
Last but not least…
Remember, when it comes to construction projects, safety and compliance should always be a top priority. Don’t take any shortcuts when it comes to obtaining a building permit and working with a registered building surveyor. By following the proper procedures and regulations, you can ensure that your construction project is a success.
We hope you found this guide informative and useful. If you’re looking to obtain a building permit in Victoria, feel free to contact us. Our team of experts at IWH Building Surveyors are here to help you through the process and make sure your project is compliance with the building codes and regulations.