When do I need a building inspection?

Building inspections are required at critical phases of construction to ensure acceptable standards of building work. The conditions of development consent or complying development certificate will specify at what stages of construction inspections are required.

You must appoint a Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) to carry out the inspections, issue Compliance Certificates for each stage of construction and issue an Occupation Certificate at the completion of the work. The PCA may be either the Council or an accredited Principal Certifying Authority.

Who inspects sewer drainage? 

Council’s Building Surveyor inspects sewer drainage, from Council’s sewer main to the house, during construction of buildings and for all alterations to the private sewer line. Inspections of On Site Sewerage Management Systems (Septic Tanks) during installation is also required. Inspections are carried out when the pipes have been laid, prior to backfilling.

A private Principal Certifying Authority (PCA) is not authorised to carry out sewer inspections on behalf of Council.

How do I book an inspection with Council?

Inspections may be arranged by telephoning Council’s Customer Services Division between 8:00am and 5:00pm Monday to Friday, telephone 6549 3700 Muswellbrook inspections are available from 9am – 11 am Monday, Wednesday and Friday and 2pm to 4.00pm Monday to Friday. Inspections in Denman and rural areas west of Denman are available from 9am –12.00 noon Tuesday and Thursday.

How do I obtain results of an inspection?

Where the builder or owner are not on site at the time of the inspection, Council’s Health and Building Surveyor will leave a sticker on site to advise the results. Any enquiries regarding inspections should be directed to Council’s Customer Service Officers by telephoning 6549 3700 between 8:30am and 5:00pm.

What is a Building Certificate?

A Building Certificate is a Certificate under Section 149D of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act. This certificate, when issued, states that no action will be taken by Council to require repairs or demolition of the building.  Usually, Solicitors acting for the purchaser of a property will request this Certificate. After receiving a request for a Building Certificate, Council will conduct an inspection on the property, and determine the application.

Return to Planning and Development