Owner Builder Institute
Owner Builder Institute
Become an Owner Builder in the ACT
In the ACT, owner–builders must be licensed under the Construction Occupations (Licensing) Act 2004. As an owner–builder, you take on the same responsibilities as a licensed builder, supervising your project and ensuring all work complies with the Building Act 2004.
The Owner Builder Institute provides guidance and training resources to help you manage your project successfully.
Licence Classes & Scope
There is one class of owner–builder licence in the ACT. This licence allows you to undertake work on Class 1, Class 2, or Class 10a buildings, as defined by the Building Code of Australia.
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Please note: Specialist building work, such as demolition or swimming pool construction, is not authorized under this licence.
Your Legal Responsibilities
As an ACT owner–builder, you are responsible for the administration and compliance of your project.
This includes supervising all building work to ensure it is skillfully and properly completed and all work complies with the Building Act 2004 and verifying that any subcontractors you hire hold the appropriate licences.
As an ACT owner-builder, you are legally responsible for all building work you carry out or supervise.
This means you may be required to rectify any work that does not meet building standards, even if the property has since been sold.
Eligibility & Qualifications
To apply for an ACT owner–builder licence, you must:
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Complete an accredited owner–builder course within the last five years
OR -
Hold an active Class A, B, or C builder licence in the ACT
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You or your workers must hold a Construction Induction White Card
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Complete mandatory asbestos awareness training 10314NAT
Applying for an Owner Builder Licence
To apply for an ACT Owner Builder licence, you’ll need to gather some key documents:
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Course or Licence Evidence: A copy of your Owner Builder course completion certificate, or a Class A, B, or C builder licence.
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Building Approval: A copy of your approved building application (BA).
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Once your documents are ready, you can start your application online. You can save your progress and return later—the application is only submitted once all documents are lodged and the fee is paid.
Assessments usually take at least four weeks.
Before You Begin: Notices and Inspections
Before starting any building work, an ACT owner-builder must submit a commencement notice to their building certifier. Construction can only begin once the certifier has issued this notice.
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During the build, owner-builders are also responsible for notifying the certifier when inspections are needed to ensure the work meets all required standards.
Insurance
While residential building (warranty) insurance is not required for ACT owner-builders, it’s important to consider other types of coverage to protect your project:
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Workers’ Compensation: If you hire employees directly, you may need this insurance. Independent subcontractors usually manage their own coverage.
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Public Liability: Can help cover claims for injury or property damage involving third parties on your site.
It’s a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand what coverage is appropriate for your specific project.