

Duplex & Dual Occupancy Approvals QLD

We've got your new home approvals sorted, with expert guidance every step of the way.
In Queensland, duplexes and dual occupancies need building approval, and depending on your site, you might also need a Development Approval (DA) from council.
But don’t sweat it! Buildcert sorts the lot, helping you figure out the right approval pathway, preparing and lodging the paperwork, handling inspections, and issuing the final Form 11 Certificate of Occupancy when it’s all done.

How Buildcert gets your approval sorted.
01
Kicking OffBefore you get started, we'll assess your plans and site details. This helps determine if any council applications are needed. If you do need a Referral Agency Application or Development Approval (DA), we can help with this too.
To kick this off, we just need you to provide design plans (site layouts, floor planning, elevations, etc.). We’ll check zoning, planning overlays (e.g., heritage, character, bushfire, flood), and confirm your plans align with the codes and standards that apply in QLD. We are here to walk you through each step so you are clear on what’s needed.
Once any necessary planning approvals are sorted, the approval process starts.
02
Plans in, Paperwork Rolling03
Construction & Inspections04
Signed, Sealed & Sorted



[ Services ]
The right solution, every time.
Everything you need to get your approval sorted, in one place.
Certification sorted.
For projects big or small, Buildcert gets your certification sorted. Trusted experience, clear communication and fast turnarounds mean you get less stress, more certainty, and support to keep your project moving.

- +47000Approvals issued.That's over 47,000 approvals, sorted.
- 15.6B$Total value of construction approved.$15.6B of construction approved and counting.
- +275000Inspections completed.Clients trust Buildcert because we’ve got the experience and know-how to get your certification sorted.
"Buildcert’s building compliance expertise was invaluable during our recent upgrades. Their team brought confidence, clarity and professionalism to a complex project, ensuring everything stayed compliant and on track from start to finish."
"Buildcert has been a reliable partner for years. Their proactive approach, local knowledge, and responsiveness take the stress out of certification for our team."
"Buildcert are a valuable partner for our team. Their practical guidance, collaborative approach and clear advice help us deliver bespoke designs that meet compliance without compromising creativity."
Planning a dual occupancy? Let’s get your approval sorted.

Frequently asked questions.
Thinking about building a duplex or dual occupancy home in Queensland? These FAQs cover the essentials, so you know what approvals you need, how long it takes, what to expect, and how Buildcert gets your certification sorted.
What’s the difference between planning approval and building approval? Do all projects need approval from Council?
Planning approval (sometimes called a Development Approval - DA) is issued by the local Council. It deals with land use and relaxation matters such as setbacks, zoning, flood or heritage overlays. Building approval is issued by a certifier and relates to how the structure is designed and built to meet the Building Code and legislation.
Some projects need both planning and building approvals and others can go straight through private certification. If council approval is required, we’ll guide you on that process and coordinate referrals as part of our role.
Do I need building approval for my project?
What documents are needed to start an approval?
What do I need for quoting?
How long does an approval last? Can it lapse?
How long does approval take?
Toolbox
Sorted.




