Why is Unauthorised Building Work an Issue?
Did you know that if damage or injury caused by unauthorized building work then the home owner is legally liable? And they are unlikely to be covered by their insurance. Local councils can order home owners to have unauthorized building works rectified. They can even have unauthorized structures demolished. Having unauthorised building works can adversely affect the marketability and value of the home.
Many established Perth homes have had alterations and/or additions (building works) completed to improve the look and amenity of the home. For example, a patio or pergola, a new garden shed, a retaining wall may have been added. Or maybe a garage has been converted into a fourth bedroom.
In most instances, building works require approval by the local council. Once approved, the local council will issue a building permit. This is required prior to any works commencing.
The building permit will stipulate all the conditions to be met by the person completing the works. The conditions will include planning and building regulations which are designed to protect the home owner, occupants and also not adversely impact on neighbouring properties.
What is Unauthorised Building Work?
Unauthorised building work may include building work completed without a building permit, or building works that have not been built in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.
Retrospective Approvals for Unauthorised Building Work
Local governments are able to issue a ‘building approval certificate’ to the applicant in relation to unauthorised building work.
The applicant will need to complete all forms, submit adequate plans and specifications (documentation). They will also need to pay all relevant fees and demonstrate that the building work complies with the relevant standards.
Some councils have differing standards in regards to the documentation required. Documentation will need to be provided by most, if not all, of the following consultants.
- Building Consultant / Project Manager
- Architectural draftsperson
- Structural Engineer
- Building Surveyor / Private Certifier
- Energy efficiency report
- Surveyor
- Bush Fire Attack Level report
- Registered builder / qualified tradespeople.
The quality of the documentation will dramatically impact the success of the application and time taken for approval.
Providing an approval of this nature retrospectively allows local governments to be satisfied that building works are safe, complies with all requirements, and is included in their building records.
If you are concerned that a building or incidental structure on a property you own or are thinking about purchasing, may not have the necessary approval, contact the relevant local council to confirm what building approvals have been granted.
No Fuss / Fast Retrospective Approvals
Home Integrity will carry out a full site investigation for structural adequacy and compliance with planning and building codes. This inspection is carried out by a registered builder, who understands the retrospective approval system, and is experienced in having approvals granted fast.
Home Integrity will complete all forms, liaise with the local council and collate all documentation required from our team of qualified consultants. Home Integrity will project manage all phases from documentation to application, to ensure the approval is granted as fast as possible.
To book your initial inspection and report click here.
