BUILDING APPROVAL

    NEED HELP WITH THE BUILDING APPLICATION?

BUILD-UP STUDIO can manage the building approval process for you. In addition to preparing the required architectural drawings, we can complete application forms, lodge the building application and track its progress through to approval.
We can also organise and coordinate the supporting documentation with structural engineers, energy assessors, building surveyors and other consultants where required, preparing for you a complete submission package.

BA4 Notice of Completion form for building approval in Western Australia

BUILDING APPROVAL PROCESS EXPLANATION

WHEN DO YOU NEED BUILDING APPROVAL?

Building approval is required for most new homes, renovations, additions, pools, spas, pergolas and other building work in Perth. Before construction begins, you may need to obtain a building permit from your local government. Building approval helps ensure that proposed work complies with applicable building legislation, the National Construction Code (NCC) and relevant Australian Standards.

Building approval is required for most types of works, including:

  • New single houses and grouped dwellings.

  • Additions, extensions, or alterations that affect the structure, layout or external appearance of a building.

  • Garages, patios, decks, sheds, swimming pools and retaining walls (depending on size and construction).

  • Internal renovations that alter load-bearing elements, plumbing layout or energy performance.

  • Commercial or mixed-use developments requiring structural or safety certification.

If your design has already received planning approval (where applicable), you can proceed to building approval.

DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR BUILDING APPROVAL

To obtain building approval, you’ll generally need to prepare and submit the following documentation:

1. Architectural Building Drawings – Complete and detailed plans showing dimensions, construction methods and materials.

2. Engineering Drawings – Structural documentation prepared and certified by a registered structural engineer.

3. Energy Efficiency Report – An energy assessment (minimum 7-Star achieved) prepared by an accredited energy assessor, in line with the National Construction Code (NCC).

4. Certificate of Design Compliance (CDC) – Issued by a registered Building Surveyor, confirming that the plans meet all relevant building codes and standards.

5. Builder’s Documents – Including proof of builder registration, home indemnity insurance (if applicable), and the signed Building Permit Application Form (BA1).

6. Planning Approval – Required only if your project needed prior council planning approval (for example, grouped dwellings or non-compliant designs).

If you are applying as an owner-builder, instead of builders documents you’ll need an Owner-Builder Certificate from the Building and Energy Division of the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS).

DRAWINGS NEEDED FOR BUILDING APPROVAL

A standard set of architectural drawings required for building approval typically includes:

1. Site Plan – Showing existing and proposed structures, setbacks and levels.

2. Floor Plans – With full dimensions, areas and construction details.

3. Roof Plan – Indicating structure type, drainage and overhangs.

4. Elevations – All external views, heights, materials and finishes.

5. Sections – Key cross-sections showing construction and ceiling heights.

6. Electrical Layout – Power points, lighting and fixtures.

7. Kitchen and Wet Area Details – Joinery, tiling and fittings.

8. Window and Door Schedule – Including types, sizes and glazing details.

9. Construction Details – Flashing, insulation, wall and roof junctions, footing details, etc.

There are two main types of building approval applications:

  • Certified Applications (BA1): A faster and often cheaper option. Your drawings and documentation are assessed by a private Building Surveyor, who issues a Certificate of Design Compliance (CDC). This is then submitted to the council, which usually responds within 10 working days.

  • Uncertified Applications (BA2): The local council handles both the design compliance and building approval, which can take up to 25–30 working days.

BUILD-UP-STUDIO can prepare all the required architectural drawings and coordinate with engineers, energy assessors and surveyors to ensure your application is fully compliant and ready for quick approval.

Information provided is for general guidance only and must be verified with the relevant authorities for each specific case; no liability is accepted.

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We are servicing all Perth metro area including but not limited to these council areas:

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