What is a Construction Certificate

A Construction Certificate is an approval for building work that certifies that:

• work completed in accordance with the specified plans and specifications will comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) including relevant associated structural standards and codes
• the detailed construction plans and specifications are "not inconsistent" with the development consent
• all “prior to issue of Construction Certificate” conditions of the development consent have been satisfied

A construction certificate lapses at the same time as the development consent issued for the proposal, that is, after five years (unless otherwise noted on the Development Consent).

Who can apply for a Construction Certificate

Generally, the owner of the land is required to be the applicant for a Construction Certificate.

In some circumstances, a lessee of the land or building may be the applicant; however it is recommended that you contact Council for further advice prior to lodgement of your application.

When should you submit your application for a Construction Certificate

A Construction Certificate is required after development consent is issued and before any building work is carried out. Building work means any physical activity involved in the erection of a building, including alterations and additions. See section 81A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

An Application for a Construction Certificate may be lodged at the same time as your DA or at any time after the lodgement of the DA.

Lodging the Construction Certificate application and DA concurrently will improve the processing time of the Construction Certificate as Council’s Building Surveyors will be able to undertake an assessment of your proposal while the DA is being assessed. A Combined Application Form is available for this purpose. A Construction Certificate cannot be issued unless it is consistent with the Development Consent and the Development Consent itself has been issued.

How do I apply for a Construction Certificate

Your application must be submitted on the Construction Certificate Application Form provided by Council. You are encouraged to personally lodge your application so Council can ensure that all of the necessary information has been provided. Applicable fees must also accompany your application. A fee quote can be obtained from Council prior to lodgement.

What information do I need to include with the Construction Certificate Application Form

Council requires as a minimum:

• two copies of structural details for the proposal, including footing and floor slab design, framing and bracing details and other details addressing relevant Building Code of Australia requirements
• two copies of specifications
  Specifications are a statement of building requirements describing the loading conditions, design practices, materials and finishes. Specifications are typically drafted by architect/draftsperson or specification booklets can be purchased from some newsagents
• two copies of the BASIX certificate - the requirements of the BASIX certificate are also to be shown on the plans and specifications
• minimum of two copies of the full Council approved architectural plans

In addition to the above, some proposed works may require:

• copies of Compliance Certificates relied upon, such as the engineers design certificate
• acoustic certification
• fire safety measures and fire resisting construction detail
• alternative solution information if your proposal does not meet the “deemed to satisfy provisions” of the Building Code of Australia

For the statutory requirements for a Construction Certificate, please see Part 8 – Construction Certificates – Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000.