What certifiers do
Registered certifiers assess and determine applications for development certificates for building and subdivision work. They are regulated by Building Commission NSW.
Key information
- Certifiers are public officials and independent regulators of development. They are required to uphold the public interest. They don’t work for builders or developers.
- A certifier can only issue a development certificate if all legislative requirements are met.
- Most certifiers are qualified building surveyors who can issue development certificates for building work, be appointed as the principal certifier, and carry out inspections.
- Other types of certifiers include swimming pool inspectors, engineers, and strata or subdivision certifiers.
Types of development certificates
Different certificates apply to each type and stage of development. Ask your council or a certifier about your needs. Find your local council details.
Visit the Planning Portal for information about different types of certificates. Certifiers also issue certificates for swimming pools, and strata.
Appointing a principal certifier
If your development needs approval, you must appoint a principal certifier. This can be a registered building surveyor, your local council or a registered body corporate (certification company).
The certifier isn't a project manager or site supervisor. The builder is responsible for building in accordance with the approved plans and for the work of subcontractors, and the applicant is responsible for meeting the conditions of development consent.
The certifier will ask you to sign a contract before they begin any certification work.
The contract must be accompanied by one of the following information sheets about the role of certifiers and your responsibilities as the applicant:
Assessing development compliance
The principal certifier carries out mandatory inspections during construction. They might ask for additional documents to prove the work complies with the development consent and legal requirements.
If the certifier finds a non-compliance, they must issue a written direction to comply, to the person responsible for carrying out the work. If the issue isn't resolved, they must report it to the council.
Occupation certificate
If all requirements are met at the final inspection, the certifier will issue an occupation certificate.
Find out more about occupation certificates.
Avoiding problems
If you have a problem with your development, discuss the issue with the certifier and builder in the first instance. This will reduce the chance of a minor concern becoming a major problem. Find out who can help you with common development concerns.
If you’re still not happy, you can replace your certifier.