Role of building certifiers

Building certifiers manage the building approval and inspection process with all relevant practitioners. This helps ensure that all aspects of the building work comply with the Building Act 1975.

They can also advise whether a building approval is needed, as some minor building work may not require an approval (i.e. accepted development).

Some aspects of domestic building work—such as maximum height, setback or character of a building—may be controlled under a local government planning scheme. In that case, a planning permit is required from the local government.

Building certifiers must not design the building or carry out any of the work.

All building certifiers must be licensed with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

Private certifiers

You can check with the QBCC for the accreditation history of a private or local government building certifier.

The agreement to engage a private certifier must be in writing and state the certification fee.

Most private certifiers have a standard engagement agreement.

Code of conduct for building certifiers

All building certifiers are bound by a strict code of conduct (PDF, 116KB) and have an obligation to always act in the public interest.

Severe penalties can apply if they fail in these duties.

Competent persons and cadets

A building certifier may rely on a 'competent person' to assist with aspects of inspection stages, in specific circumstances.

They may also appoint a cadet to help them perform certain building certifying functions.

Read more about competent persons and cadets.

Role of QBCC

The QBCC:

• conducts audits of building certifiers' work
• investigates complaints made against building certifiers
• takes disciplinary action against building certifiers found guilty of professional misconduct.

Anyone can lodge a complaint against the actions of a building certifier.