Efficient, Reliable Building Approvals For All Projects
Quick turnarounds, expert certifiers, and streamlined communication for builders and professionals.
Comprehensive Building Approval Services
Residential Building Approvals
New Builds and Renovations including dwellings, sheds, carports, pools, and retaining walls, and associated building works.
Commercial & Multi-Residential Approvals
Certification for commercial, industrial and retail projects plus specialised approvals for townhouses and multi-res developments.
Consultancy & Planning Services
Town Planning advice and referrals, Bushfire Assessments, Council Plumbing Applications and Local Council Relaxations.
Our Process
A Seamless Process That Just Works
At Custom Building Approvals, we know your time is valuable. Our process is designed to be clear, straightforward, and stress-free, from the moment you reach out, right through to final approval. Whether you’re managing multiple jobs or handling your first project, we guide you every step of the way.
Quote & Initial Assessment
- Provide plans for quoting.
- Quote sent back to you.
- Sign quote and agreement.
- Initial assessment and Information Request (RFI) sent.
Pending Approval
- Send in requested documents and make payment.
- Certifier assesses new documentation.
- All documentation stamped and approved.
- Approval documents lodged to council and sent to you.
Approved & Finalising
- Building works can commence.
- Book required inspections.
- Inspections carried out and reports issued.
- Final documents lodged to council and sent to you.
Comprehensive Building Approval Services
From residential homes to commercial developments, we provide expert building certification services across Queensland and NSW with systematic, timely processing.
Residential Building Approvals
Whether you’re building a brand new home, adding a carport, or installing a pool, we make the approval process clear, fast, and stress-free. We work with builders, consultants, and homeowners to ensure your residential projects comply with council requirements — without the confusion.
Projects We Approve
- New dwellings
- Renovations & home extensions
- Sheds, garages, patios & carports
- Swimming pools & pool fencing
- Retaining walls
- Re-roof applications
Why Builders & Homeowners Trust Us:
- Fast turnaround times
- No guesswork on pricing
- Licensed in both QLD & NSW
- Reliability and Consistency
Multi-Residential Approvals
Working on a more complex residential build? We’re highly experienced in managing approvals for multi-residential projects, and understand the need for speed, detail, and compliance. We help you get it right the first time, with proactive communication and streamlined systems that keep things on track.
Projects We Approve
- Dual occupancy homes
- Townhouse developments
- Multi-unit dwellings and duplexes
What You’ll Love:
- Clear advice on documentation & compliance
- No-fuss quoting based on your plans
- Consistent updates throughout the approval
Commercial Building Approvals
Commercial projects come with higher stakes and tighter deadlines, and that’s exactly where we shine. We work with developers, contractors and architects to deliver fast, compliant commercial approvals that meet regulatory requirements without bogging down your build.
Projects We Approve
- Shop & retail fit-outs
- Office refurbishments
- Industrial warehouses & factories
- Commercial new builds
Why Commercial Clients Rely on CBA:
- Experienced team who understand commercial complexity
- Deep understanding of local council frameworks
- Systemised process using Visual Approvals software
Consultancy Services
Not sure where to start? We can help. Our consultancy services are designed to support your approvals journey from day one. Whether it’s town planning requirements or navigating bushfire overlays, our in-house team provides proactive advice that prevents delays and ensures your application is ready to go.
Specialist Services
- Preliminary Assessments (fees apply)
-
Bushfire Assessments:
Get expert reports for BAL ratings and site-specific compliance requirements.
Why Our Consultancy Saves You Time:
- Avoid submitting incomplete or non-compliant applications
- Reduce approval delays with pre-lodgement insights
- Work with experienced certifiers who understand the whole process
Begin Your Building Journey with Confidence
Don’t let building approvals delay your project or cause unnecessary stress. Custom Building Approvals provides the expert guidance and efficient service you need to navigate Queensland’s & New South Wales building regulations with confidence.
More Services
What Else Can We Help With
Bushfire Assessments
In Queensland, a bushfire-prone area is land identified as having the potential to be affected by significant bushfires, including vegetation that can support a fire and adjacent areas where impacts from a bushfire are likely. These areas are mapped by local governments based on factors like vegetation, topography, and weather conditions, and are used to guide building regulations and development planning to mitigate bushfire risks. Bushfire-prone areas are locations where there’s a higher risk of bushfires and where those fires could have significant impacts on people, property, and the environment. Building regulations in Queensland, including the Australian Standard AS3959, outline specific requirements for construction in bushfire-prone areas to improve a building’s ability to withstand bushfire hazards like burning debris, radiant heat, and flame contact. If your property falls within a Bushfire Prone Area, we can assist with a Bushfire Assessment to advise you of the minimum construction requirements (additional fees apply).
Plumbing Applications
All new structures containing plumbing fixtures will require a Council Plumbing Permit. Similarly, some renovations may also required a permit. We can assist you with lodgement of your application to council (additional fees apply).
Local Council Relaxations
If your proposed design does not comply with the planning schemes and development codes we can provide assistance with the appropriate applications and lodge to council on your behalf or refer you to a reputable Town Planner (additional fees apply).
Queensland Fire & Emergency Services
We can provide assistance with co-ordinating referrals to the QFES (additional fees apply).
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What can you build without approval?
Some minor works, like small garden sheds or fences below a certain height, may not require approval. However, the rules can vary depending on your project and local council requirements. We’re happy to advise whether your project needs formal approval or not.
What is the difference between a building approval and planning approval?
Planning approval (or town planning approval) relates to how land can be used and developed – things like zoning, land use, or design overlays. Building approval, on the other hand, ensures the actual construction meets building codes and safety standards. Some projects require both; others only need building approval.
Do you service areas beyond the Sunshine Coast?
Yes! While we’re based on the Sunshine Coast, we also service surrounding areas and beyond across Queensland and New South Wales.
What happens if I don’t get a building approval?
Building without approval can lead to serious consequences, including fines, difficulty selling your property in the future, or even having to demolish the work. It’s always better to get approval upfront and avoid costly headaches down the track.
How much does a building approval cost?
Pricing varies depending on the type and size of the project, so we don’t list set prices online. Once we receive your plans, we’ll provide a free no-obligation quote. This way, you know the cost upfront before moving forward.
How long does it take to get a building approval?
Timeframes can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the documentation provided, but we pride ourselves on quick turnaround times. Our experienced team works hard to keep your project moving without unnecessary delays.