Darling Downs
With coverage across south-east Queensland, where are right where you need us, when you need us.
[ Big capabilities, local service ]
We'll help keep your build on track, on budget, and on time.
We’re here to simplify the certification process for builders, designers, and homeowners with fast response times, practical advice, and a focus on keeping your project moving.
Our local certifiers are on the ground in the Darling Downs region, bringing invaluable knowledge of the local council regulations to ensure each approval is fast, clear and simple for you.
[ Services ]
The right solution, every time.
We specialise in residential certification across south-east Queensland, with a focus on fast turnarounds, simple processes, and advice you can trust. Our local team understand the Darling Downs' planning landscape and how to keep your build project on track.
- Building Approvals
- Relax Applications
- Retrospective Building Approvals
[ Our promise to you ]
Your sort of certifier.
With fast turnarounds, trusted experience and clear solutions, we'll get your certification sorted.
Trusted experience
Buildcert people aren’t just experts in certification, they’re highly experienced in understanding your challenges and working out the most practical and efficient ways to solve them.Consistent quality
Buildcert is reassuringly consistent in everything we do – consistent people, consistent processes and consistent interpretations – all designed to make your life consistently easier.Clarity & simplicity
Buildcert makes certification clear and simple by constantly innovating to remove complexity, friction and pain points from the process.
[ Service area coverage ]
We know the region, and the regulations. We’ve got Darling Downs sorted.
Our team of certifiers in the Darling Downs region bring local knowledge that helps your approval run smoother, not slower. We know the planning rules and who sets them. We provide coverage across south-east Queensland including the below local government areas.
- Lockyer Valley Regional Council
- Somerset Regional Council
- Western Downs Regional Council
- Goondiwindi Regional Council
- Southern Downs Regional
Toolbox
Frequently asked questions.
Still have a couple of questions? We've put together answers to some of the most common.
What documents are needed to start an approval?
A typical submission includes:
- Site plan, floor plans, elevations
- Engineering details, if required
- Design compliance (Form 15) if required
- Energy efficiency report
- Soil/site data
- Title Search
- The correct Development Application (DA) form (usually DA Form 2 for building work)
This can change depending on the project, but don’t worry, we will guide you through what's needed.
What do I need for quoting?
A site plan should identify the structure on your property and show setbacks to boundaries and existing structures. If you wish to create your own, you can visit Site Plans Online, however, we recommend using a professional architect or draftsperson.
How long does approval take?
This depends on the completeness of documents, whether planning referrals (e.g., relaxation variations, overlays) are needed, and how quickly RFI items are returned. We aim to have your project reviewed within 3-5 business days of engagement.
Do I need building approval for my project?
In QLD, most residential structural work requires building approval, like new homes, extensions, carports, garages, pools, retaining walls, patios, and decks. Some minor work may be exempt or accepted development if it meets certain size and height limits and is outside of setback areas. If you’re unsure, it’s best to check with us before starting; we’ll confirm what applies to your project.
Can you lodge documents with Council on my behalf?
Absolutely, we can. Once engaged, Buildcert notifies the Council of our engagement and lodges approvals and final certificates to Council records once complete.
Sorted.
