Owner Builder Steps

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Becoming an Owner Builder may seem like a daunting task but it can be made easy if the following steps are followed:

As well as those listed above there are many more Owner Builder requirements that applicants must adhere to in order to be granted owner builder status. It is important to remember that individuals who receive Owner Builder Permits take on all the responsibilities and risks of the building project. It is therefore worth familiarising yourself with all the owner builder requirements before you commit to a project.


For more information on owner builder permits and the owner builder requirements that govern the application of them, visit our owner builder FAQs and owner builder checklist pages for more details. 

Determine if an Owner Builder Certificate is required.


Assess the value of the cost of works to determine if it will be over $16,000. An Owner Builder Certificate will be required this must be obtained through the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) for all domestic works.

Determine if a Planning Permit is required.


Contacting your local council is an essential part of the Owner Builder process; you will need to speak to the Planning Department and determine whether a Planning Permit is required for your proposed works.

Gather all required documents including:

  • Site Plan,
  • Elevations,
  • Engineering and Certificate of compliance from the engineer,
  • Certificate of Title and any other documents listed on the title e.g. Covenants or Sections 173 agreements.

Prepare any additional documentation for external buildings (outbuildings).


Depending on the type of building project extra documents may be required. If you refer to our application checklists you will be able to gain a better understanding of what exactly is required whether your project is a Pool, Deck, Verandah, Shed or Dwelling

Complete an Application Form and Owners Consent form.


Once this has all been collected, fill in one of our Application Forms and Letter of Appointment and send in with all necessary documents.

Here at Code HQ we pride ourselves on our ability to ease the Owner Builder process and are willing to help with any questions or queries you may have.

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