FREE Builder License Check
Note: An extensive builder license check (called 'registration' in some States) is included in both our Essentials & Comprehensive Reports.
Your builder must be registered with the appointed State Building Regulator (see following links). Checking of the basic builder license is free Australia-wide.
Importantly, be aware that there are multiple ‘unlimited’ and 'limited' builder registrations as well as builder 'classes' (eg: domestic, commercial, demolisher, structural landscaping, pool builder, etc). It is essential your builder's registration is appropriate for your specific project. If the work completed hasn't been performed by a correctly registered builder, it is illegal.
Additionally, depending on the State where you live, there are mandatory insurances. No matter where you live, builders are compelled to provide some form of consumer protection to assist you if things go poorly. Check with your State Building Regulator to ascertain what the mandated insurance are - know your rights. Also, don't confuse State mandated building insurance with other kinds of insurance, even if your builder says, 'it’s OK, I’m covered’ or that they ‘have insurance’ they may not be eligible for the compulsory consumer protections.
Builders should also hold a range of additional insurances such as: public liability, contract works insurance, theft, etc - ask them what provision has been made if things go wrong. By law (determined by State regulation) you must have a written major domestic building contract – only registered / licensed builders can complete these contracts.
In 2024 ASIC recorded over 3,000 Australian construction sector insolvencies, hence we recommend your Building Inspector, Surveyor, Shire or Council confirms that all permits, DAs and policies are in place before works begin. We strongly recommend that you have a physical or digital copy of the mandatory insurance before you allow the project to commence.
Finally, building regulations change frequently: we urge you to obtain independent legal advice before signing contracts.