Whether building or renovating/extending a residential or commercial property, you need to obtain a building permit, also known as approval or consent in some places. Maybe long legislation processes aren’t your cup of tea and just mentioning them tires you up. Or, you don’t know what getting approval means and where to start. Here’s what you need to know about the permitting process and why hiring an experienced, reputable architectural company is the safest and easiest way to obtain building approval.
Why Do You Need a Building Approval?
A building permit is a formal approval granted by private building surveyors or local government officials. It indicates that you can begin building or remodelling a property. This permit guarantees that your proposed development complies with all applicable local or state building codes and standards. It all comes down to ensuring that everything is zoning law-compliant and structurally sound.
The main goal of building codes is to save human life, though local governments may also include provisions for accessibility or sustainability. Building codes save lives during natural catastrophes like earthquakes, floods, fires, and other calamities, even if they occasionally feel burdensome to building owners.
Moreover, the process aims to make sure that buildings are safe and have a minimal impact on the neighbourhood, including not only people but also native plants and animals, the integrity of the land, and current and future infrastructure related to energy, water, wastewater, and telecommunications, to mention a few common problems.
How Do I Get a Building Permit in Australia?
Obtaining a building permit can be exceedingly difficult and time-consuming, especially if you don’t usually do it. Each state has its own building codes, meaning the authorities may demand that licences for a particular project be provided in different ways, which makes the work considerably more difficult. Further, property owners and tenants must make numerous decisions, have construction plans created that adhere to all rules and regulations, and submit a tonne of paperwork before they can obtain a building permit.
Unless you’re ready to engage in all the stages of the permitting process, from preparing plans and specifications and learning building codes to burying yourself in paperwork, hiring a customer-oriented company is your best bet to get building approval. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how professionals, such as NM Architecture, will work to get you a permit to build the property from your dreams. You’ll have expert guidance at every step, making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Phase 1 – Initial Discussion
The first step to securing your building permit is meeting the professionals you’ve chosen to discuss your project. At this stage, the team will collect all the key information about your proposed development, including understanding the location, the type of build or renovation you're planning, and what you want to achieve with the project. It also covers your budget, the style you're going for, and any functional requirements.
This phase is about getting a clear picture of your goals and vision for the project; it sets the foundation for the entire process, ensuring your architect understands exactly what you're after. Based on the gathered information, they can offer professional advice and tailor the plan to fit your needs. The goal is to provide you with the best possible solution, ensuring everything starts right.
Phase 2 – Site Investigation and Feasibility Planning
The next step involves preliminary research to see whether your project is viable. The team will visit the site, research zoning laws, restrictions, and existing services, and talk to local authorities to ensure no major roadblocks will come up before moving forward.
At this stage, they’ll check for any special permits that might be required and assess any neighbourhood rules that could affect the building. The goal here is to determine early on whether your vision is achievable or if adjustments are necessary.
Phase 3 – Project Analysis and Administration
Once the site investigation is complete and feasibility confirmed, it's time for project analysis. Here, the architectural firm will provide a breakdown of the design process, budget considerations, and the scope of work. The potential resale value and the likely timeline for approvals are also discussed. You’ll receive an estimate for the firm's services and a clear payment schedule.
Transparency is key at this stage. By laying everything out clearly, both parties can align their expectations. This is where you'll have the opportunity to review the full picture of the project before signing an engagement agreement.
Phase 4 – Concept Design and Comprehensive Investigation
With the groundwork laid, the team now focuses on designing the concept. Using the information gathered, they’ll create architectural sketches to bring your vision to life and develop a unique design that meets your functional needs and aesthetic preferences.
This phase also involves consulting engineers and other specialists to ensure all design elements align with regulations. Once a schematic design is ready, it’s presented to you for feedback and approval.
Phase 5 – Design Development
Next, the architectural team refines the internal layout, external finishes, and functionality. This phase includes coordination with consultants, material selection, and further consultations with authorities to ensure everything meets the required standards. At the end of this phase, you’ll usually be presented with the finalised design waiting for your approval.
Phase 6 – Developer and Council Approvals
Once the design is locked in, it’s time to secure the necessary approvals. If your development requires council overlays or developer approval, this is the phase where all documentation is prepared and submitted. The architectural firm cares about everything, from architectural drawings to engineering reports, ensuring that your project complies with regulations. This process can be complex, but having experienced professionals handle it ensures your application is as strong as possible.
Phase 7 – Construction Drawings and Documentation
With approvals in hand, the focus shifts to creating detailed construction drawings. These include notations, site plans, demolition plans (if needed), floor plans, elevations, and electrical layouts. The team coordinates with engineers to ensure everything is integrated properly. Once you complete and approve these documents, they’ll be submitted for the building permit.
Phase 8 – Construction Certification and Obtaining a Building Permit
The final step is obtaining the actual building permit. That involves the relevant authority reviewing all documentation to ensure it complies with the required building standards and regulations. The architectural firm should work closely with building surveyors to ensure all contracts, insurance, and certificates are in place. Once everything is approved, your building permit will be issued, giving you the green light to start construction.
