• Local government bodies may require that you need a planning permit before you can build, extend or renovate a house.
• Even if you are using a large or smaller building company it is still your responsibility to ensure that the appropriate permit is obtained.
• The two permits you may need are a planning permit and a building permit:

• planning permits concern the way the land will be developed or used; and
• building permits concern the quality and safety of the actual construction.

• You must get the planning permit before you can apply for the building permit.
• You cannot start construction until you have a building permit.

• The permit shows that a registered building surveyor has reviewed your plans and confirms that they comply with your local government’s building regulations.

• You can use either a private or council building surveyor.
• A fee will be charged by the building surveyor.
• Sometimes your builder may organise the permit for you.

• You will need to provide written authority for the builder to organise the permit.
• This can be part of your contract or in a separate document.

• The building surveyor must inspect the site at specific stages of the building project.
• The building surveyor will check whether the work complies with the building regulations.
• The builder must tell the building surveyor when each stage is complete and ready for inspection.

When the work is complete you must make sure that a Certificate of Final Inspection or Occupancy Permit has been obtained.