Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

A private certifier or building surveyor is an accredited industry professional who independently reviews, approves, and inspects building developments to ensure they comply with the National Construction Code (NCC), state building legislation, and relevant Australian standards.

Certifiers can issue compliance certificates for the design, construction and completion of a building – as well as audit existing buildings.

Certifiers work closely with architects, builders, developers and project managers; but they do not participate in the design or supervise building works. Their role is a regulatory authority.

Private certifiers and surveyors are recognised as a relevant authority to approve and endorse building plans throughout Australia. While their role can be performed nationally, it is important to work with a certifier who understands the unique requirements of your state.

All certifiers have a statutory obligation to act in the public interest and must independently perform certifications, as well as avoid any project where a conflict of interest exists.

In NSW, certifiers are regulated by the Building Commission NSW and in QLD by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

Looking for a private certifier? Explore building certification services by Certis.

There is no functional difference between a private certifier and a council certifier – the distinction is only who employs them. Private certifiers are engaged by independent companies, such as Certis, while council certifiers are employed by local government.

Both have the same statutory authority to assess building plans, carry out inspections, and issue building approvals; ensuring all work complies with relevant codes and regulations.

Many clients prefer private certifiers for greater flexibility, direct communication, and responsive service; all of which help to minimise delays and keep projects moving smoothly.

As with most things, the size and complexity of your project will determine the cost. While a small project or a single certificate may cost hundreds of dollars, many mid-large projects end up costing thousands.

It’s important to understand that these costs are a necessary part of engaging in building works as certification and approvals are legal requirements.

We understand that budgets are a key part of any build or renovation and we aim to offer transparent pricing. For a quote tailored to your project, contact our private certifiers.

As a general estimate, building certification can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. This depends again on the complexity of your project, as well as the number of certifications you require.

At Certis, we prioritise frequent communication and use Solution Focused Thinking to overcome challenges – helping keep every client’s project on track.

Yes, disability access is a legal requirement under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. Accessibility is also featured in various codes and standards, such as the National Construction Code (NCC) and AS1428 – Design for Access and Mobility.

If you are concerned about best practices for disability access, you may wish to partner with an accessibility consultancy, like Certis. Our in-depth knowledge of disability access requirements helps ensure every client is fully compliant.

Compliance certificates are documents that show a building meets safety and building code rules.

There are a vast number of certifications that may be required, such as:

• Construction Certificate (CC)

• Development Approval (DA)

• Complying Development Certificate (CDC)

• Certificate of Occupancy (OC)

• Form 11

Compliance certificates may be issued for new construction, renovations and existing buildings. To find out what certificates may be suitable for your project – contact our private certifiers.

Some of the most common certifications required in NSW include:

• Construction Certificate: required before construction commences

• Complying Development Certificate: a combined development and construction approval, which may be suitable in place of a Development Application (DA)

• Occupation Certificate: required after construction is completed to ensure a building is safe to people to use

An experienced certifier, such as the team at Certis, can provide tailored advice on what approvals you may need.

In QLD, a Development Approval (DA) is issued by local government for specific projects which require an assessment for compliance in-line with their planning scheme.

A Development Approval (DA) is an application to the local government to review and approve your proposed building plans. Only a council certifier can issue a DA.

There are some exemptions from a DA, though this usually only applies to small or simple projects.

There is also an alternative process for a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) which a private certifier is able to assist with.

The NSW Planning Portal is an online system for lodging various building applications and approvals. It has been the primary application portal in use since January 2021.

To use the portal, you are required to create your own account. It is mandatory to lodge applications through the portal.

If you are working with private certifiers, such as Certis, you can nominate this during your application. This means we will be notified about your applications and able to assist you with the next steps.