Frequently asked

Questions

  • A Registered Certifier is an individual tasked with evaluating and processing applications for development certificates concerning buildings and subdivisions . These professionals serve as both public officials and independent overseers of development initiatives. As stewards of public trust, they are expected to uphold principles of transparency and integrity, ensuring decisions are made in accordance with rigorous ethical standards.

  • The Principal Certifier, commonly abbreviated as PC, is a registered certifier or registered body corporate, who is appointed before the commencement of any works, to conduct critical stage inspections and other necessary inspections for a development. Additionally, the PC is tasked with issuing the Occupation Certificate upon the completion of works, contingent upon their confirmation that all pertinent legislative requirements have been fulfilled.

  • The Principal Certifier is chosen by the individual or entity benefiting from the planning approval. A builder can only designate the PC if they also hold ownership of the land.

  • At Central Certification we are dedicated to offering an exceptional service that prioritises quality, technology and affordability.

    We believe in delivering value for your investment. While we offer competitive rates, we encourage you to explore the breadth of our services, which may not be matched by others at a lower cost.

    We're committed to efficient turnaround times and swift responses. With years of experience, we've perfected the balance between meeting legal requirements and aligning with your company's schedules.

    Accessibility is central to our service approach. We engage directly with development site owners, recognising the challenges they may face during construction. Our certifiers are dedicated to providing support and resolving issues to facilitate the timely issuance of Occupation Certificates.

    When you schedule inspections with us, expect prompt attendance and timely results. Should any defects be identified, our team promptly communicates with your office to prevent project delays.

  • You can access our Application Forms and Checklists for download from our Documents & Forms Page.

  • The time taken to assess your application varies based on what it is that you are building and the quality of information that you have provided with your application. Upon receiving your application, we'll provide a more precise estimate of when you can anticipate receiving your development certificate.

    For Construction Certificate applications, our typical turnaround time is 7 working days. Meanwhile, Complying Development applications typically take between 10 and 20 days to process. Please note that Complying Development Applications may undergo a mandatory fourteen-day neighbour notification period before our approval can be issued.

  • Our team includes skilled registered certifiers. Your application will be assigned to the most suitable staff member based on various factors including the project's size, complexity, geographic location, and staff availability. Regardless of these considerations, we ensure you receive quality service throughout the process.

  • Given the unique nature of each development, providing a fixed fee for our services can be challenging.

    We prefer to evaluate your proposal individually to ensure proper resource allocation and deliver the highest level of service possible.

    To request a fee proposal, please click the link below and send us an email with all of the relevant details. The information required can be found of our “Forms and Docs” page.

    Send an email

    Forms and Docs

    Building companies interested in establishing a consistent working relationship with Central are encouraged to contact one of our offices.

    We'll arrange for our Director to meet with you and discuss the comprehensive offerings available through Central.

  • Construction or Complying Development Certificates require works to begin before their expiry. A construction certificate aligns with the expiration of the development consent, while a complying development certificate remains valid for five years from its issue date. Once construction starts, there's no time limit for completion.

  • Construction cannot commence until a Construction Certificate or Complying Development Certificate is issued and a Principal Certifier is appointed. The Owner (or their Builder) must notify both the Principal Certifier and Local Council two days in advance of commencing works. Reviewing the approval conditions is crucial, as certain tasks may need completion before work commencement.

  • To schedule an inspection, you can either use the link provided below or you can contact your nearest Central office before 4 pm. Upon booking, you'll receive a unique confirmation number.

    Book an Inspection