Owner Builder Inspection Reports
If you carried out building works as a registered owner builder and you are planning to sell the property within 6.5 years of the works being completed, Victorian law requires you to obtain a mandatory inspection report and defects disclosure from a registered building inspector.
What the report covers:
The inspection assesses the owner builder works for defects, non-compliance with the Building Code, and incomplete works. The report must be prepared by a suitably qualified inspector and provided to prospective buyers as part of the sale documentation.
Why it matters
Failure to provide the required report can jeopardise your property sale, expose you to legal liability, and potentially void your domestic building insurance obligations. Getting this done correctly — and early — protects you and your buyer.
Our process
Step 1
Contact us with details of the owner builder works
Step 2
We schedule an on-site inspection
Step 3
We prepare the formal report identifying any defects or areas of non-compliance
Step 4
We provide you with the completed report and guidance on next steps
Owner Builder Checklist
If you’re in the process of undertaking owner builder works, keeping track of your obligations will save you significant headaches later. Use this checklist as a general guide.
Before Works Commence:
- Confirm you hold a valid Owner Builder Permit issued by the VBA (required for projects over $16,000)
- Obtain all required building permits through a registered building surveyor
- Ensure your architectural and engineering drawings are approved before starting
- Check whether a planning permit is also required from your local council
During Construction:
- Do not cover or conceal work before the required mandatory inspections have been carried out
- Contact your building surveyor to arrange each inspection stage listed on your permit
- Keep records of all contractors engaged (including their registration details)
- Ensure subcontractors hold appropriate licences and registrations
On Completion:
- Obtain your Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection from your building surveyor
- Obtain Domestic Building Insurance if required (for projects over $16,000 in contract value)
- Keep all documentation — permits, inspection records, plans, and certificates — in a safe place
If Selling Within 6.5 Years:
- Obtain a mandatory inspection report and defects disclosure from a registered building inspector
- Provide the report and insurance documents to prospective buyers as required
