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Building Information Certificate

A Building Information Certificate is for someone buying a property and wants to check that the building or buildings on the property are properly authorised.

A Building Information Certificate is not mandatory and is usually applied for when someone is buying a property and wants to check that the building or buildings on the property are properly authorised.

A Building Information Certificate covers unauthorised buildings and work, buildings in disrepair and buildings that encroach on Council land, and if issued means no penalty orders will be given to have the building demolished or altered. It is basically a formal agreement that Council is happy with the structures on the property to which the Certificate relates.

Once issued a Building Information Certificate remains current for 7 years.

In order to determine an application for a Building Information Certificate, Council will inspect the building and review relevant Council records.

How to apply for a Building Certificate


  • Step 1 - Find out if you can apply

    An application for a Building Information Certificate can be lodged by:

    • the property owner 
    • anyone with the property owner's consent
    • the owner's solicitor or agent
    • a purchaser who has entered into a contract to purchase the property
    • a purchaser's solicitor or agent
    • any public authority that has notified the owner of its intention to apply for the certificate

  • Step 2 - Apply

    You can apply for a Building Information Certificate online using the NSW Planning Portal website.  You will need a Planning Portal Login or you can use your Service NSW Login if you have one.  Click on New once you have accessed the Planning Portal and look for Building Information Certificate and ensure you answer the questions online.   You will be charged a fee for the use of the Planning Portal - this money goes to NSW Department of Planning - it is not a Council fee.

  • Step 3 - Site inspection

    Once we've received your application through the Planning Portal we will contact you to request payment via card details over the phone - this fee will be a Council fee.  Once paid for, we will inspect the building and review any relevant Council records and documentation submitted as part of the application. We may request further information before we can issue your certificate.

    We will usually inspect the property within 10 working days. This time frame may differ if illegal or unauthorised works are involved.

    An additional inspection fees will be payable if we need to carry out more than one inspection, or if the floor area of the building is greater than your application states.

 

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