Change of Use
A change of use occurs when a building or property changes from one ‘use’ to another. Every structure has a designated use, whether it’s a home, an office, or a retail shop. If this use is to change, it is likely that both a building permit and planning permit are required.
It’s best to seek expert advice on the subject, by contacting an experienced and registered building surveyor.
When do I need a building permit for a change of use?
You will need a building permit for a change of use if the change constitutes a change in the Building Classification under the Building Code of Australia. For example, a shop is a class 6, and an office is a class 5. A building permit is therefore required to change the use of the building from a shop to an office. Essentially, if you are planning to use a building for a different purpose to what it is/was used for, or is currently permitted, you will need a building permit for a change of use. It is important to note that a building permit is not the same as a planning permit and that by changing the use of a building it is likely that a planning permit may also be required.
Why do I need a building permit for a change of use?
To change the use and classification of a building, the building is required to comply with the requirements which are applicable to the new use and classification. For example, the Building Code requirements applicable to an office are different from those applicable to an educational facility. Therefore, to conduct a change of use, a building permit is required to both formally change the BCA Classification of the building, and for the works necessary to achieve compliance. When proposing to conduct a change of use to a building, it is important to note that even where requirements between the existing and proposed uses are consistent, the building code requirements may have changed since the building was built. It is therefore common for when conducting a change of use, for upgrade works to be required in order to achieve compliance with current day codes and regulations.
Why Choose Us?
What We Offer
Our specialist building surveyors provide a range of other unique services, including
We can assess your property remotely, identifying potential issues prior to your final inspection to keep the project on track.
Pre-assessment inspections can significantly speed up the process of obtaining a building permit as it enables us to gather information and resolve any ambiguities.
Our RFI Project Meetings provide the applicant with a better understanding of the requirements and their obligations, thereby significantly speeding up the process to obtain a Building Permit.
Who We Have Worked With
Types of Change of Use
Change of Use Applications
Our specialist building surveyors in Melbourne provide change of use applications, including:
How We Work
Our Easy
5 Step Process
We’re a seasoned team of experts, specialising in building surveying and providing building permits. We have an in-depth understanding of the legislation around building codes and standards.
1
Proposal
We provide a highly competitive fee proposal customized to suit your needs.
2
Application
You submit all current information and documents relevant to your application.
3
Assessment
Our building surveyors will conduct an assessment of your application and request further information where necessary.
4
Submit
You provide the information requested with our guidance where required.
5
Approved
We issue your Permit!
How do I get a change of use?
If you need a building permit for a change of use, you will need to apply through a registered building surveyor. You will be required to fill out the application form and provide the relevant documentation and information. This includes plans showing the existing and proposed conditions of the building.
Your building surveyor will then assess the change of use application and issue the approval if all of the requirements are met. If you need to provide additional documentation or clarify some points, your surveyor will let you know. For more information on change of use, get in touch with Fitout Permits.
Testimonial
Client Testimonials
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Contact Us
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Contact our team of building surveyors to enquire about our services.
Phone Number
1300 712 523
Opening Hours
Monday To Friday: 9am-5pm
Resources
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