‘Do I need a permit to build, renovate, or do additions to my residence?’.
There is no definite answer, as every situation is unique. But generally, most structural building work will require a permit.
https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0009/99279/Demolition-work.pdf
https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0003/99282/Exemption-for-Class-10a-buildings.pdf
‘What is the difference between a planning permit and building permit?’
A planning permit is issued by local council planning department. A planning permit generally deals with the positioning on site, building size & bulk, environmental factors, external appearance of the proposal and its effect on the surrounding neighbourhood. This can include, but not limited to, front setbacks, side boundary offsets, site coverage, overall building height, wall height – boundary offset ratio, vegetation removal, excavation, overlooking, external colors and materials, bushfire threats, etc.
A building permit is issued by a private or municipal building surveyor. A building permit generally deals with the structural components of the proposal, and to ensure the proposal complies with current regulations and standards. This includes soil testing to ensure foundations are designed to suit the site, engineering for the structural components, energy rating, bushfire construction standards, and ensuring full compliance with building regulations, National Construction Code (NCC), and other standards for all construction components.
For further documentation refer to the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) website
https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/consumers/home-renovation-essentials/permits
‘Do I need a planning permit or a building permit?’
The answer depends on your proposal and you may need both. Generally, most structural building work requires a building permit, and depending on the proposal may need a planning permit also.
To determine whether planning approval is required the proposal needs to be checked against the planning scheme provisions.
A planning consultant can advise whether a planning permit is required, and if so, what the triggers are that require planning approval. Alternatively, a pre-application meeting with your local council can also provide similar planning advice.
A building surveyor can advise whether a building permit is required for proposed structures, alternatively, the VBA provide a practice note with numerous instances and/or exemptions for building permit requirements.
https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0016/114730/Pilot-Practice-Note-32.pdf
‘What is the role of the building surveyor?’
Appointing a Building surveyor is vitally important, as they ensure the building’s safety, amenity, structural capability, and compliance. This begins at the building permit application stage, where the building surveyor ensures planning permits have been sought and approved if required. The documentation is then assessed for compliance with relevant current standards and building regulations. Once a building permit is issued the building surveyor’s inspectors conduct checks at stipulated construction stages to ensure the builder complies with the building permit.
The right building surveyor ensures the client’s project is constructed to meet all standards and regulations, and finally issues the certificate of occupation only after he is satisfied the building is safe and habitable.
How can Defining Design help me?
In addition to designing a unique building that will increase value and improve the functionality, Defining Design can assist in the preparation of permit documentation, liaising with and connecting clients with recommended consultants, and generally guiding client’s from inception through to the construction phase.
‘Why should I use registered building practitioners?’
Registered Practitioners have been educated, qualified, assessed and are continuously regulated.
‘If you use an unregistered builder or tradesperson to carry out work valued at over $10,000, you are at risk of having no protection from poor quality work. In addition, the work won’t be covered by domestic building insurance.’ – Victorian Building Authority
Check to see if your designer, builder, or other consultant is registered.
https://consumer.etoolbox.buildingcommission.com.au/Pages/Search.aspx
Craig Shaw - Defining Design
Registered Building Practitioner DP-AD 68910 Draftsperson - Building Design (Architectural)