Note: It is an offence not to obtain a certificate of occupancy. To make sure your building complies with all requirements and to avoid substantial penalties, notices, and orders, enlist the services of a private certifier.

SureScope’s Qualified Certifiers Can Help With Your Occupation Certificate in Newcastle

Before moving into a building, you must apply for and be granted an occupation certificate by a private certifier. This certificate of occupancy in NSW certifies that a new building is suitable for living, or any other intended purpose, in accordance with the Building Code of Australia (BCA).

Have our Grade 1 Accredited Building Certifiers in Newcastle inspect your completed building. We can establish whether or not your finished building project is safe to live in or fit to use and issue your certificate of occupancy. 

When approving an occupation certificate in NSW, we consider the following factors:

  • Structural adequacy
  • Fire safety
  • Disability access
  • Health and safety of future occupants
  • Amenity access.

We ensure all development consent requirements and conditions are met, and all required documents are submitted.

We ensure all development consent requirements and conditions are met and all required documents are submitted.

BUILDING-CODE-CONSULTANTS-NEWCASTLE-2

Additional requirements to your Occupation Certificate

When submitting an occupational certificate in NSW, the government also requires one or more of the following certificates:

Our consultants cover every aspect of the planning and construction process, including obtaining these certificates and communicating with relevant stakeholders, like other building professionals and the local council. This allows us to streamline the planning process (while meeting all relevant NSW and Commonwealth legislation) and ensures your building work runs smoothly. 

Contact us to obtain your occupancy certificate in NSW. Submit the relevant documentation online, and we’ll be in touch to book a free consultation and proposal. 

FAQs About Occupation Certificates in NSW

Why do I need an occupation certificate in NSW?

An occupation certificate authorises the occupation and use of a new building or building section. It is illegal to occupy a building without an occupation certificate in NSW.

What documents do I need to apply for an occupation certificate?

To be eligible for an occupation certificate, you must provide a copy of:

– Your development consent or complying development certificate (CDC)
– Any relevant construction certificates
– Any relevant fire safety certificates
– Any relevant compliance certificates
– A BASIX certificate (optional).

How long does it take to get an occupation certificate in NSW?

If you provide all the relevant documentation and your project has been completed per the Building Code of Australia, an occupation certificate can be issued within 30 days of the initial application. This can vary, but our team will keep you up-to-date throughout the application process. 

Do I need an occupation certificate for renovations?

An Occupation Certificate is required for a new part of an existing building (e.g. an extension or alteration) where the building already has a final or whole OC. It may also be required when changing the use of an existing building which has been reclassified under Australian Building Codes.

Can I get an OC to use part of a building while the rest is still under construction?

As a new building project is underway, parts can be completed and become suitable for occupancy before the entire project is completed, so long as the work does not pose a health and safety risk to the occupants.

What is the difference between interim and final occupation certificates?

An interim occupational certificate allows the occupation, use or new use of a partially completed building, whereas a final occupation certificate allows for the occupation of a new building once the work is 100% complete. An interim occupation certificate lasts five years before a final certificate is required.

How much does it cost to work with a private certifier?

It depends on the size and scope of the project. We offer free proposals and consultations — from here, we can provide a tailored quote based on your specific needs.

Get Your Occupation Certificate in Newcastle with SureScope — Contact Us Today

Scroll to Top