Owner-Builder Law Reforms

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This page contains information regarding the Owner-Builder Law Reforms implemented by the Building Commission on 14 June 2005. Please see below for information on these changes and the process required to be completed by owner-builders.

Owner-builder law reforms

What is an owner-builder?

An owner-builder is defined as a person who constructs or renovates a domestic building on his or her own land, who is not in the business of building.

From 14 June 2005 owner-builders:

• Must obtain a Certificate of Consent from the Building Practitioners Board in order to obtain a building permit to carry out domestic building work valued over $12,000
• Must ensure they read and understand information on their legal obligations and responsibilities
• obtain building permits for a single dwelling and associated work on a single property, in any three-year period.

What is a Certificate of Consent?

A Certificate of Consent is an individual's written approval to act as an owner-builder on their own land in the State of Victoria.

Owners who intend to apply for a building permit for domestic building work as an owner-builder must provide to the relevant building surveyor a Certificate of Consent issued by the Building Practitioners Board.

What is the new process for owner-builders?

From 14 June 2005 owner-builders must:

• Request a copy of the Owner-builder Information and Education Kit from the Building Commission Website or by telephoning 03 9285 6400
• Read and complete the application form and statutory declaration contained in the Owner-builder Information and Education Kit
• Tear out the completed application form and statutory declaration
• Attach the application fee of $75.00
• Attach a copy of a current driver's licence or passport (as proof of identity)
• Send or deliver the completed application, with any supporting document to:
  
  By mail: Building Practitioners Board, PO Box 536E, Melbourne VIC 3001
  In person: Building Practitioners Board, Level 27 Casselden Place, 2 Lonsdale Street (Cnr Spring & Lonsdale Streets), Melbourne VIC 3000.