What does it mean to be an owner-builder
An owner-builder is someone who takes on all responsibility for domestic building work carried out on their land.
As an owner-builder you would need to obtain building permits, supervise or undertake the building work, and ensure the work meets building regulations and standards.
In Victoria, an owner-builder can only build or renovate one house every three years, and must intend to live in the house once completed.
If you wish to be an owner-builder, and the value of the proposed building work is more than $16,000 (including labour costs and materials) you will need to apply for a certificate of consent.
Owner Builders (works of any value) must sign Council's Owner/builder declaration form.
For building works valued over $16,000 an owner-builder must obtain a Certificate of Consent from the Building Commission Practitioners Board in order to obtain a building permit.
It is recommended that ALL owner-builders read and understand information on their legal obligations and responsibilities outlined in the Building Commissions Owner-builder Application Kit and Information Statement brochure. A link to this brochure is below.
What is a Certificate of Consent?
A Certificate of Consent is issued by the Practitioners Board of the Victoiran Building Commission and is an individual's written approval to act as an owner-builder on their own land in the State of Victoria.