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We require a minimum of 24 hours' notice for all inspections. To ensure availability, inspection requests must be received by 2pm on the business day before the inspection is required.

Please note that work must not proceed past a mandatory inspection stage until the inspection has been completed and approved where required.

Our fees vary depending on the type and complexity of the project. Most projects are quoted based on the plans and documentation provided.

For new homes, alterations, additions, commercial projects and other building work, we generally need to review the plans before providing a quote. Some standard projects may have fixed fees.

If you're unsure what information we need, give us a call and we'll point you in the right direction.

Every project is different. Timeframes depend on:

• The type and complexity of the work
• Whether external endorsements or referrals are required
• The quality and completeness of the documentation submitted
• Response times from consultants and authorities

Once we have received all required documentation and the application is complete, we generally ask clients to allow up to one week for assessment and issue of a building approval.

Photos can sometimes assist with preliminary advice; however, photographs cannot replace mandatory stage inspections.

ACT legislation requires certifiers to carry out inspections at prescribed stages of construction before issuing the relevant certifications. Site inspections are a key part of a certifier's statutory role.

Yes. If work does not comply with the approved plans, National Construction Code, relevant standards, or legislative requirements, the certifier may issue directions or identify items requiring rectification.

A reinspection will generally be required to verify that the defects have been corrected before construction can proceed.

For most residential projects in the ACT, mandatory inspections typically include:

• Completion of excavation, placement of formwork and steel reinforcing for footings before concrete is poured
• For class 1, 10a or 10b buildings: completion of structural framework before internal lining; and completion of formwork and steel reinforcing for any reinforced concrete member before concrete is poured
• For other buildings: completion of any structural framework stated in the building approval; and completion of formwork and steel reinforcing for any reinforced concrete member stated in the building approval
• Completion of the building work approved in the relevant building approval

Additional inspections may be required depending on the nature of the project.

Yes. Building work must be carried out in accordance with the approved plans. Even if changes seem minor, altering room layouts, walls or the swing of doors should be reviewed and an amendment to the building approval will be required.

Replacing an existing fireplace will likely require a new building approval as different units have different clearances to combustible materials and hearth requirements.

No. The ACT Building Act requires building approval to be obtained before building work commences where approval is required.

Building approvals are not intended to be retrospective, and starting work before approval can create significant compliance, certification and enforcement issues.

Contact your certifier before carrying out the changes. Some changes may be minor and easily addressed — more significant changes may require additional assessments, reports or engineering changes before an amendment to the building approval is processed.

Making changes without approval can result in delays, additional costs, failed inspections, and difficulties obtaining final certification. The safest approach is always to discuss proposed changes before the work is undertaken.