If you are preparing to develop your residential lot, it is important to check the requirements in your local area in relation to building certification. Often, people assume that construction can begin as soon as development application is approved for building a home or conducting major renovations. However, a construction certificate is also required in addition to the development consent.
The certification is designed to confirm that the plans for the development are compliant with relevant building codes and regulations. In addition, once the construction is completed, you will need an occupation certificate. These certificates can only be issued by building certifiers. Here are some essential tips for working with a building certifier during your construction project.
1. Choose the Right Certifier
It is important to choose and hire the right building certifier for your project. When engaging this professional, you should keep in mind that your contractor or builder cannot hire the certifier on your behalf. After all, the work of the certifying authority is to make sure that the building or other development is completed according to the plans.
If the builder and certifier are connected, there will be a conflict of interest. When choosing a certifier, you should ensure that your preferred expert is accredited for the work. It is also essential to remember that the certifier can handle specific construction work. There are special certifiers for different types of projects, so provide all the relevant details before signing a contract.
2. Check the Development Consent
When a development application is approved, there are specific terms that you must follow. If there were no conditions, unscrupulous individuals would change their plans. In general, the conditions of the development consent are designed to ensure that only a safe and approved structure is built. Therefore, you should check the conditions which must be met during the project. For instance, an assessment by your building certifier might be required at different stages of the construction. Make sure that the obligations are not ignored. If you are uncertain about anything, consult your builder or certifier.
3. Understand Your Obligations
Finally, you should understand your responsibilities as the property owner or the party benefiting from the development. It is important to keep in mind that it is your personal obligation to make sure that the building is built according to your acquired consent and certified by an accredited professional. If you choose to ignore this aspect of your residential construction, you could be fined, and your new structure could be demolished.
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