Owner-builders and Registered Builders

The person named as builder on a building permit takes responsibility for ensuring the work complies with the applicable building standards and permit.

Registration and owner-builder requirements depend on the work, building class, value and location.

Current Value Thresholds

For permit-required building work valued at $20,000 or more, a registered building contractor or an approved owner-builder may generally be required.

From 1 July 2026, the threshold for a Class 10a building is $50,000.

Class 10a includes non-habitable buildings such as a private garage, carport, shed or similar structure.

The higher threshold changes who may carry out the work; it does not remove building permit requirements or building standards.

Owner-builder Approval

An owner-builder is an owner who obtains State approval to take responsibility for building work on their own land. Eligibility, training, white-card, application timing and six-year restrictions apply. Allow time for the State process before lodging the building permit.

Confirm the project classification and value before choosing the builder pathway.
Apply to Building and Energy for owner-builder approval where required.
Lodge the building permit application within the period stated on the owner-builder approval.
Understand your obligations for supervision, safety, insurance, records and future sale disclosures.

Home Indemnity Insurance

Residential building work may require home indemnity insurance before work starts or before a building permit is granted.

Ask your builder and check current Building and Energy guidance for the project.

Get Project-Specific Advice

Thresholds are not a complete test. Contact the Shire and Building and Energy if you are uncertain about classification, registration or owner-builder approval.

Owner-builders and Registered Builders

Current Value Thresholds

Owner-builder Approval

Home Indemnity Insurance

Get Project-Specific Advice

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