The application process for a building permit in Victoria involves a number of steps, and requires the services of a registered building surveyor. It’s important to have sufficient knowledge of the process before submitting an application to a building surveyor, so that applicants can anticipate any additional requirements, and ensure the application is processed swiftly.
Understanding your obligations
Every applicant should first understand their obligations under the relevant legislation, building codes, and building regulations. In Victoria, as with any other state, building work in general will require a building permit. If you are unsure about your obligations, you can contact your local building surveyor to obtain expert advice before proceeding with your permit application.
The process of obtaining a building permit in Victoria
The process has a number of stages, and should include extensive research before submitting your application. You should always seek out expert advice from a building surveyor to ensure that when you do submit your application, you’ve supplied everything required for the permit to be issued.
Understand the scope of your project
At the very beginning of the process, you should know the scope of your project in depth. This is much easier if you’re conducting a small renovation project at home, when compared with a multi-dwelling development project. But understanding the ins and outs of your own project is critical before you begin to fill out any paperwork.
Contact a building surveyor
When you have a good understanding of your project, it’s time to contact a registered building surveyor. You’ll be able to let them know that you’re applying for a permit, and request a quote for fees.
Quotation for fees
The building surveyor will issue you with a quotation for the building permit fee. If you accept the quotation and move forward with the process, they will issue you with an application form and explain all of the requirements.
Prepare your application
Once your building surveyor has issued you with the application and explained the requirements, you can begin to prepare the application forms.
Attach all supporting documentation and information
Ensure you attach all of the required documents and information with your application form before submitting it. This usually includes drawings and specifications. If you do not attach the right documents, your application may be delayed or denied.
Submit your application and documents
When everything is ready, you can send your application and supporting documents to your building surveyor.
Review and assessment by a building surveyor
The building surveyor will then assess your application. They will utilise their knowledge of current codes and regulations and deep understanding of permit applications to assess your documentation and determine whether or not your building permit can be issued.
Follow up for additional information (if required)
Your building surveyor will get in touch and request additional information or documents if required. This may result in a delay to your application, which is why it’s so important to ensure everything is provided in the first time.
Your building permit is issued!
If your application fulfils all of the requirements and you’ve provided all required documents, specifications and drawings, your building surveyor can issue you with your permit! Do keep in mind that you may require other permits or approvals before you can begin the building works in question. However, if you have all of the permits required, you may begin works.
Questions? Contact an expert building surveyor today
If you’re unsure of how to begin the building permit application process in Victoria, or have questions relating to other permits and approvals, always seek expert advice. Fitout Permits has many years of experience in the industry and can assist you in obtaining a building permit. We also provide a range of other services for different stages of construction.
Contact our team today for more information.
