OWNER BUILDER COURSES

What is an Owner Builder?

An Owner Builder is an individual who performs the traditionally role of a licensed builder to manage and co-ordinate construction work that is being carried out on their own residential premises, and who holds an Owner Builder Permit that authorises the individual to act as an owner builder in relation to such construction work.

As part of the project, an Owner Builder orders building materials and engages contractors directly to carry out construction work, and he or she effectively manages the whole project in the same way that a licensed builder normally would.

Becoming an Owner Builder carries with it a wide range of benefits, including the following:

SAVINGS – Owner Builders can save 20-40% on constructions costs as well as the builder’s margin that is normally charged by licensed builders

CONTROL – Owner Builders are able to exercise a greater level of control over their own project, including the ability to make changes to the construction work more promptly

SATISFACTION – Owner Builders have a greater sense of satisfaction in knowing that they were able to build their own home themselves.

What work can I do as an Owner Builder?

As an Owner Builder, the law generally allows you to:

• build a new home
  
• renovate, alter or extend an existing home
  
• build a garage, carport or residential shed
  
• build a swimming pool for residential use
• build a pergola or entertainment area for residential use.

Although the law may differ from state to state, you will not generally be permitted to do any work that relates to a commercial / industrial building as an Owner Builder, nor will you be able to build multiple dwellings on the same site (apartment buildings etc). For specific information you should check with your state regulator.

How do I become an Owner Builder?

In order to obtain an Owner Builder Permit, you must satisfy these general requirements:

• you must own, or have a prescribed interest in, the residential land where the construction work will to be carried out
• have completed the prescribed Owner Builder Course (unless you are exempt from doing so)
• hold a Work Health and Safety White Card
  

To register and complete the prescribed Owner Builder Course, select your state above.