How do I check if a certifier is properly registered?

Each state and territory maintains a public register of building practitioners. Search by the certifier's name or registration number to verify their registration class and current status. All certifiers listed on Building Certifiers Hub are verified against these official registers.

Can my builder choose the certifier?

Your builder can recommend a certifier, but the building owner has the right to appoint their own. The certifier's obligation is to the NCC and the building owner, not the builder.

What if I am unhappy with my certifier's service?

You can change certifiers during a project, though the process requires formal notification and transfer of documentation. If you have a complaint about professional conduct, contact the relevant state or territory regulatory authority.

How do I check if a certifier is properly registered?

Each state and territory maintains a public register of building practitioners. Search by the certifier's name or registration number to verify their registration class and current status. All certifiers listed on Building Certifiers Hub are verified against these official registers.

Can my builder choose the certifier?

Your builder can recommend a certifier, but the building owner has the right to appoint their own. The certifier's obligation is to the NCC and the building owner, not the builder.

What if I am unhappy with my certifier's service?

You can change certifiers during a project, though the process requires formal notification and transfer of documentation. If you have a complaint about professional conduct, contact the relevant state or territory regulatory authority.

How to Choose a Building Certifier in Australia

What is a building certifier?

A building certifier (also known as a building surveyor or building inspector depending on your state) is a qualified professional who assesses building work for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC) and state or territory legislation.

They are responsible for issuing construction certificates or building permits before work begins, conducting mandatory inspections during construction, and providing occupation certificates when the building is ready for use.

Check accreditation level first

The most important factor is whether the certifier holds the correct accreditation level for your building class. Residential certifiers (lowest level) can only certify Class 1 and 10 buildings (houses, sheds, pools). Limited certifiers can handle residential plus some commercial work. Unrestricted certifiers can certify all building classes.

If you appoint a certifier without the appropriate accreditation for your building type, the certification will be invalid. Always verify accreditation level against your project requirements before engaging anyone.

Experience with your building type

Beyond accreditation level, look for experience with your specific type of project. A certifier who regularly handles multi-storey apartment buildings will be more efficient than one whose work is primarily single houses, even if both hold unrestricted accreditation.

Ask how many similar projects they have certified in the past year. A certifier familiar with your building type will process the assessment faster and be better equipped to identify issues early.

Responsiveness and communication

During construction, you need a certifier who can schedule inspections promptly and communicate clearly with your builder. Delays at inspection hold points stop construction, costing money every day the site is idle.

Ask about typical inspection turnaround times, preferred communication channels, and how they handle urgent requests. A certifier who takes three days to return calls will cost you more in project delays than any fee difference.

Get multiple quotes

Request quotes from at least two or three certifiers. The quote should clearly state what is included: plan assessment, the number of inspections, and the final certificate. Understand what triggers additional fees (re-inspections for non-compliance, variations to approved plans).

The cheapest quote is not always the best value. Consider the certifier's experience, responsiveness, and reputation alongside the fee. A thorough certifier who catches issues early can save you money overall.

Official Sources

Verify the information in this guide against these official government resources.

Australian Building Codes Board
The body responsible for the National Construction Code.