Building approval updates.
What they mean for you.

Which National Construction Code edition applies?

The National Construction Code (NCC) sets technical requirements, but NSW and Victoria have different adoption arrangements. The applicable edition also depends on the project and any relevant transition provisions.

Your next step: ask us to confirm the edition, state variations and transition requirements before finalising the documentation. Beginning design before an adoption date does not, by itself, establish that an earlier edition applies.

Victoria: understand your building surveyor’s role.

From 1 September 2026, the prescribed Form 26 information statement applies to Class 1a dwellings and Class 10 buildings associated with those dwellings. It explains the building surveyor’s role and responsibilities.

The relevant building surveyor must provide it to the owner within 10 business days after applying for the building permit number. It is information supplied to you, rather than another application form for you to fill in.

Read it alongside your engagement information and ask the team about any questions. A link on a website does not replace the required delivery to the owner.

Victoria: who appoints the building surveyor?

The owner chooses the private building surveyor. Complete iPermit’s appointment paperwork so the scope, responsibilities and fees are clear. If an agent acts for the owner, provide written authority.

For domestic building work under a domestic building contract, the builder cannot appoint the private building surveyor on the owner’s behalf. Tell us about any existing surveyor appointment before submitting a new application.

Victoria: inspection records are part of the process.

From 1 September 2026, the relevant building surveyor must give the relevant council the prescribed inspection record within seven days after the inspection is completed.

For your project, arrange the required inspection before the work is covered up, and provide the permit reference, inspection stage and site access details when contacting the team.

NSW: remember the separate principal certifier appointment.

A CC or CDC application and the principal certifier appointment are separate steps. Uploading your certification contract does not, by itself, complete the Portal appointment process.

Arrange the appointment through the NSW Planning Portal and check it has been accepted. Confirm the required approvals, commencement notices and inspection arrangements before work begins.

Portal screens and help guides can change. Use the current official help alongside our preparation guide, and contact us if the application or certifier details are unclear.