Renovation & Extension Approvals QLD
Tackling a home reno or extension in Queensland? Buildcert will help you get the approvals and certification you need, minus the runaround.
We've got your renovation & extension approvals sorted, so you can spend time focusing on your project.
Renovations and extensions are exciting… but approvals? Not so much. We get it. If you’re getting ready to knock down walls, add rooms, or give the place a serious glow-up, we’ll help you figure out what approvals you need, sort the certification, and make sure you’re all above board before the hammers swing.
We work with builders, developers, homeowners, and designers across Queensland to keep renovation and extension projects compliant and ticking along without holdups.
[ Our approach ]
How Buildcert gets your approval sorted.
01
Kicking OffWhat it is
We review all the components of your project, such as structural works, extensions, internal reconfigurations, or changes affecting external walls, to determine what approvals are required. If you do need a Referral Agency Application or Development Approval (DA), we can help with this too.
What's involved
You supply plans, elevation, a clear scope of works and site information. From here, we’ll check zoning, planning overlays (heritage, character, bushfire, flood), local planning schemes and the Queensland Development Code (QDC).
Why it matters
Submitting under the wrong approval track can delay work or trigger council complications. Correct identification keeps things compliant and efficient from the start. With Buildcert, you’ll get a clear roadmap on the way forward, plus the knowledge of any special reports your project might need (think heritage, amenity, structural or energy reports).
02
Prepare & Lodge the Approval ApplicationWhat it is
We prepare and lodge the Building Approval (and DA, if required).
What you gain
Incomplete or incorrect applications often lead to rejections, resubmissions and extended delays. With Buildcert on your team, you’ll get a polished, compliant application lodged efficiently, without you chasing councils or forms.
03
Inspections Throughout the BuildWhat happens next
During construction, mandatory stage inspections are required at key milestones. Inspections can be easily booked here. Each stage ensures compliance with approved plans, and we work with you to coordinate supporting certificates if needed.
Not sure which inspections are required? Check your Decision Notice for an easy-to-follow list.
04
Signed, Sealed & SortedOutcome
Once the works are complete and compliant, we will carry out a final inspection. Buildcert issues the Form 21 Final Certificate or equivalent, confirming the renovation or extension is legally approved.
Who handles this
We’ll verify all compliance documents (including energy, structure, termite and wet area certifications), perform the final site check, and issue your Form 21 Final Certificate.
[ Services ]
The right solution, every time.
Everything you need to get your approval sorted, in one place.
[ Why choose Buildcert ]
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."
Ready to get your next project sorted?
Frequently asked questions.
Planning a renovation or extension project in Queensland? These FAQs cover the questions we get asked most.
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?
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 they meet certain size and height limits and are 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.
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 an approval last? Can it lapse?
Your building approval is valid for 18 months. If work hasn’t substantially started or finished within that timeframe, the approval will lapse.
A Form 57 reminder will be issued 3-6 months before the deadline. And if you need more time, there may be options to extend upon application.
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.
Toolbox
Sorted.
