New Residential Construction: The Process.

We have received numerous requests regarding the construction process. Below is an outline of the generalised process.

Design stage

This involves the preparation of site plan, floor plans, elevations and cross-sectional areas. This can be done by a building designer, architect, draftsperson, engineer and in some cases the client so long as they meet the necessary minimum requirements.

It is important that client insist on important details be included on the plans such as underground services (sewerage and stormwater), easements, site coverage and boundary setbacks.

Once the Architectural plans are completed, client can engage a Structural Engineer and a Building Certifier simultaneously. We at CVL Engineers provides these two services to make it easier for the client.

Structural engineering.

In Queensland, structural engineering design has to be done a RPEQ Engineer. The BPEQ website provides a search facility to check whether an engineer is registered and also their current status (active or inactive).

A Form 15 Design compliance certificate must be issued to accompany structural engineering plans.

Building Approvals.

Building Approvals is regulated by The Building Act 1975 which provides that a building certifying function can only be done by a licensed building certifier. The Act defines building assessment work as the assessment under the building provisions of a building development application for compliance with those provisions.

At this stage, the Certifier assesses proposed building work and issue a Request for Information (RFI) for the client to provide.

Once all documentation requested by a Certifier have been provided, a Decision Notice is issued. This is typically called the Building Approvals that allow construction to commence.

Construction Stage.

Clients can elect to use a QBCC licensed builder or do the work as Owner Builder. As an Owner Builder, clients would be required to complete an online course before obtaining an Owner Builder Permit from QBCC.

Our involvement during the Construction Stage is mostly to clarify any issue in the design and undertake construction inspections of structural aspects such as Footing, Slab, Framing, Bracing and Tie-Downs.

It is strongly recommended that clients take note of the expiry date specified on the Building Approvals. Once construction is completed, final inspection is carried out by a Certifier and Final Forms 16 & 21 issued. The Certifier lodges these Forms to the local Council and provides to the client copies of the Forms.

Contact us today to discuss your next project.

We trust that you find this information useful. Feel free to leave us a comment below for further clarification.