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Principal Certifying Authority
A Construction Certificate can be obtained from either Council or a Private Accredited Certifier.
If the Construction Certificate is issued by a Private Accredited Certifier, a copy of the certificate, associated plans and specifications must be forwarded to Council within two (2) days of issue.
Who are Private Accredited Certifiers?
The State Government, through the Building Professionals Board has set up a system that allows certain individuals to become accredited as certifiers and approve Construction Certificates.
The Building Professionals Board has a current list of Certifiers.
What is a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA)?
The Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) is chosen by the owner or applicant for an application that:
- Administers the conditions of consent and progress of the development from commencement to completion and conducts a proper inspection of each required stage of construction.
- Promptly advises the applicant, after any relevant inspection, of any outstanding work.
- Issues the applicant with an Occupation Certificate for any building or change of building use when the relevant application has been lodged.
- Receives and investigates any complaints from the public concerning the development.
Council or a private certifier can act as your Principal Certifying Authority and issue the Construction Certificate and the Occupation Certificate and oversee the construction process. If Council is not the PCA, Council must be notified of who has been appointed at least 2 days prior to building work commencing.
What is a Notice of Commencement?
A Notice of Commencement is formal advise to Council providing details of the appointed PCA, the date of commencement of building works and the name of the builder.
Appointment of Council as your Principal Certifying Authority
You must complete the Notification of Commencement & Principal Certifying Authority Service Agreement form and submit it to Council a minimum of 2 days prior to any works starting. Council will endorse your application form and return a copy to you with advice as to the required critical stage inspections.
Updated: 07 Jul 2011