Replacing a certifier
Property owners sometimes need to replace their principal certifier. Find out how to go about it.
About replacing a certifier
In certain circumstances, property owners can replace the principal certifier of a development.
There are 2 options to replace a principal certifier:
- by agreement, or
- if you can’t agree, by providing Building Commission NSW with good reasons for the replacement.
Replacing a certifier by agreement
The quickest way to replace the principal certifier is to reach agreement with both the current and proposed-replacement principal certifier.
The proposed-replacement must inform the current certifier and the council (unless the council is the replacement principal certifier).
They must use the Notice to appoint a replacement principal certifier form (PDF 194.67KB) and send it to the council and the consent authority (if required), within 2 days of the replacement principal certifier being appointed. They do not send the form to Building Commission NSW.
Replacing a certifier if you can’t agree
If you (the property owner) and the current and proposed-replacement principal certifier can't agree, you must submit an Application to replace a principal certifier formto Building Commission NSW.
You’ll need to provide us with good reasons to replace your certifier. You can’t appoint a new certifier unless Building Commission NSW approves, and the council and former certifier have been notified.
Your reasons must include:
- their negligence, incompetence and/or breach of the Code of Conduct for Certifiers, and
- relevant events, times, dates and locations.
The builder cannot apply to replace the principal certifier, even with the owner’s consent, unless the builder is an owner-builder.
Certifiers whose registration is expired, suspended or cancelled
Your certifier must tell you immediately if their registration is expired, suspended or cancelled.
If this happens, submit an Application to replace a principal certifier formto Building Commission NSW.
Replacing a swimming pool certifier
If you're not satisfied with your current certifier, you can appoint another registered certifier, or ask your local council to inspect your swimming pool.
The first certifier doesn't have to share your pool's records with the replacement certifier. But all inspections are recorded in the Swimming Pool Register, which the new certifier can check.
To find a swimming pool certifier, visit the Swimming Pool Register.
Note: If a notice of non-compliance has already been issued, the certifier who issued it must send the notice to the council (if you don’t obtain a certificate of compliance within six weeks).