How to obtain Building Permits and Advice

Why Do I Need a Building Permit

In Victoria most building works, such as alterations, additions, demolitions, or installing an Essential Safety Measure, require a Building permit. This is legislated under the Building Act 1993 and the Victorian Building Regulations 2018.

At Stokes Safety we issue Building Permits, undertake all Mandatory Inspections and issue the required Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection at the completion of every project.

How Can We Help

At Stokes Safety, we pride ourselves in taking a proactive approach and work collaboratively with architects, draftspersons, and engineers and all other design members to achieve a compliant project which meet all legislative requirements.

Taking the First Step

If there is a project in development, contact Stokes Safety for prompt initial advice to help pave a clear path. Having Stokes Safety on board
at the infancy or schematic stages (prior to submitting for town planning approval) of a project will allow the design team know whether the
design is viable and achievable.

How Else Can We Help

In addition to assisting in maintaining the safety of a building, Stokes Safety can also undertake BCA Compliance Assessments or Due Diligence Reports on Existing Buildings, assist where buildings have been issued with Building Notices or Orders and provide advice on any
pressing matters or queries involving in any building related matters.

When do I need a building permit or engage a building surveyor?

Buildings must be constructed to meet minimum standards of safety and amenity as set out in the Building Act 1993 (the Act), the Building Regulations 2018 (the Regulations) and National Construction Code (NCC). The building permit process is intended to ensure that the building work when constructed complies with the Act, Regulations, NCC and relevant Australian Standards and the building or structure is suitable to occupy or use. The building permit is required to include detailed documentation which demonstrates that the building work will comply with the Act, Regulations and NCC. The building permit process also requires inspections of the work and the issuing of an occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection. Some building work is of such a minor nature that the protections and advantages that a building permit provides are not necessary or will not be achieved. Schedule 3 of the Regulations sets out the building work that is exempt from the requirement for a building or occupancy permit. (Note: Extract from Victorian Building Authority Practice Note 32-2018 https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/99377/PN-32-When-is-a-building-permit-required.pdf)

Download the Application for a Building Permit

Getting Started

At Stokes Safety, we aim to see your project run as smooth and seamlessly as possible whilst targeting our prime objective of a safe and compliant building. To assist us in achieving this goal, we ask that the initial documents be provided: –

• Building Permit Application Form, a PDF Version can be emailed upon request.
• Letter of Appointment (to be signed by owner/s); or Owner Builders Consent Letter, A PDF template letter can be emailed upon request.
• Evidence of Ownership
• Certificate of Title and associated Block Plan/s where external works are proposed
• Re-establishment survey plan prepared by licensed land surveyors where external works are proposed.
• Preliminary Architectural Plans and Specifications prepared by a registered draftsperson or architect
• Services Plans and Specifications prepared by a registered practitioner
• Structural Plan, Soil Report, Structural Certification where works involve structural works prepared by a registered practitioner.

Upon the initial documents provided, we will be able to advise the team on the next step. Our consultation will direct the team moving forward and suggest design advice while maintaining a particular focus on client needs.

So that we can best assist you and your business with your building safety and compliance needs, obtaining a building permit or a certificate of final inspection, please Contact Us today on 1800 058 342