Becoming a certifier QLD
Your guide to becoming a Registered Certifier in Queensland.
In Queensland, building certifiers play a crucial role in approvals and inspections, ensuring projects meet legislation and can move forward without delays. To become registered, you’ll need the right qualifications, industry experience, and a clear understanding of your responsibilities at each level of registration.
At Buildcert, we’ve supported certifiers at all stages of their careers, from early entry roles to Level 1 registrations handling the most complex projects. With the right training and support, you can build a rewarding career in certification while helping shape Queensland’s built environment.
[ What you'll need ]
Eligibility to become a Registered Certifier in QLD.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) manages the registration process. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain requirements around study, qualifications, and capability.
These include:
- A recognised bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- A postgraduate master’s degree or diploma (for higher levels)
- Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and practical experience relevant to building certification
- Meeting the criteria for the level of registration you’re applying for (Level 1, 2, or 3)
More details on accredited courses can be found via the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
[ Career pathway ]
Levels of Building Certifier registration in Queensland.
There are three main levels of building certifier registration under the QBCC. Each level has different responsibilities and scope of work, with higher levels allowing you to assess and certify more complex buildings.
Building Certifier – Level 3
Level 3 certifiers focus on residential dwellings and smaller minor structures.
Scope includes:
- Class 1a houses (single dwellings or townhouses)
- Class 1b boarding houses, guest houses, or hostels under 300m² (fewer than 12 occupants)
- Class 10 structures: sheds, carports, garages, pools, fences, retaining walls, masts, antennas
- Class 10c bushfire shelters linked to Class 1a dwellings
This is often the entry point into certification, giving you hands-on experience with residential approvals.
Building Certifier – Level 2
Level 2 certifiers can independently certify mid-rise buildings and assist with higher-level projects under supervision.
Scope includes:
- Buildings up to 3 storeys
- Floor areas up to 2000m²
- Assisting in the assessment and inspection of all classes of buildings under a Level 1 certifier
This level broadens your capacity beyond residential into larger, more complex building types.
Building Certifier – Level 1
Level 1 certifiers have unrestricted scope, covering all classes of buildings and structures.
Scope includes:
- Carrying out building assessments (except where a referral agency is required)
- Issuing Compliance Certificates
- Inspecting building work for Building Development Approvals
- Issuing footing stage and final inspection certificates for Class 1 and 10 buildings
- Issuing Certificates of Occupancy for all other classes
This is the highest registration level in Queensland, enabling certifiers to manage approvals across the full spectrum of building types.
Ready to build your career in certification?
