Construction Certificates

Either your local council or a registered private certifier, such as FutureCert, can issue a Construction Certificate. In cases where the Minister for Planning is the consent authority, you can apply through the State's Department of Planning.

A Construction Certificate is necessary after receiving development consent and before beginning any building work, including alterations and additions. 

Once issued, a Construction Certificate becomes part of your development consent. This means written directions and orders can be issued if the building work doesn't meet legislative requirements

A Construction Certificate lapses at the same time as the development consent issued for the proposal, that is, after five years. The DA is triggered by the 'physical commencement' of building works. 

Provide sufficient details to assure the consent authority that your proposal complies with the Building Code of Australia and conditions of Development Consent. This will include the following:

1. Specifications: A specification should describe how the building will be constructed, covering structural, operational, and aesthetic aspects - referencing all applicable BCA Clauses and Australian Standards. It generally includes all detailing that is unable to be reflected in the plans
2. Plans: Plans define the extent and configuration of building works, outlining use, appearance, and fire safety provisions - providing all necessary detailing in order for the builder to be able to complete project. 
3. Other Supporting Information: Supplement the plans and specifications with additional information where necessary, and to satisfy any relevant conditions of Development Consent. 

Legislation allows for modifications to construction certificates. The application and assessment process mirrors the original application.

Construction certificates can be issued for various stages of development. Typical in larger developments.

Conditions on construction certificates are only ever applied in certain circumstances typically related to Fire Brigades referrals and departures from the BCA. Any site management conditions will be included in the development consent. 

A fire safety schedule must be attached to all construction certificates, outlining standard of performance  and maintenance for each fire safety measure applicable to the project. 

Before starting work, you must appoint a Principal Certifier (PC), such as FutureCert and notify the consent authority (council) via the NSW planning portal at least two days in advance of building works commencing. Note that site establishment works such as temporary fencing, signage and sediment and erosion control measures are permitted before CC is issued. 

Yes. After construction is complete, you'll need an Occupation Certificate from the PC, which cannot be issued until all works are complete, including any fire safety measures commissioned