When do I need to engage a private certifier versus a council building inspector?

In some states you can choose between a private certifier and council, and in others the choice is limited. In Queensland you can appoint a private certifier directly, and in Tasmania an owner builder must engage a building surveyor. Whoever you choose, check they are licensed or registered in your state, and get their fee and inspection list in writing before you appoint them. The certifier is independent of you and decides whether work complies, so they cannot sign off work that does not.

In MyBuildHub: save the certifier's details in Contacts, their fee proposal and inspection list in project documents, and set Timeline dates for each inspection.

Check yourself: Queensland role of building certifiers and your state building regulator.

General information only. It is not legal advice and may not apply to your project. Rules differ by state and change over time, so confirm with your regulator, certifier or a lawyer before acting.