Owner Builder Institute
Owner Builder Institute
Owner Builder Guide Queensland (QLD)
What is an Owner Builder?
An owner builder in Queensland (QLD) is a property owner who acts as their own head contractor for residential building work on their own land without hiring a licensed builder to oversee the project.
They are responsible for coordinating, supervising, and potentially carrying out construction, such as building a new home, renovating, or building structures like garages, carports, and swimming pools.
Do I need an Owner Builder Permit?
In Queensland, you must obtain an owner builder permit from the QBCC for any residential building work valued over $11,000.
Rules and thresholds can change, so always verify current requirements with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.
Completing an approved owner builder course is typically mandatory for all applicants.
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Eligibility and Qualifications
To apply for an Owner Builder permit in Queensland, you must meet the following criteria:
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Property owner: Your name must be listed on the property title.
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Company director: If the property is owned by a company, you must be a director.
At least one applicant must complete an Owner Builder course or obtain an approved course exemption before applying. Depending on your project, you may also need to complete an Asbestos Awareness certificate.
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To apply for an Owner Builder permit in Queensland, you must meet the following criteria:
-
Property owner: Your name must be listed on the property title.
-
Company director: If the property is owned by a company, you must be a director.
At least one applicant must complete an Owner Builder course or obtain an approved course exemption before applying. Depending on your project, you may also need to complete an Asbestos Awareness certificate.
Your Owner Builder course must be no more than five years old.
How to Apply for an Owner Builder Permit in QLD
Follow these 8 steps to submit your application through the QBCC
1
Check if you need a permit
Required for projects over $11,000 (including GST) on your own land, company-owned land (if you're a director), or leased land (with owner's permission). Farm buildings can go up to $27,500.
2
Check eligibility
Must be a property owner, company director, or leaseholder. Other restrictions may apply—check your situation.
3
Estimate project value
Add costs of materials and labour at trade prices, including GST. Use the price a licensed QBCC contractor would charge, even if work is done by yourself.
4
Complete required courses
At least one applicant must finish an Owner Builder course or get an approved exemption. You may also need an Asbestos Awareness certificate. Courses must be less than five years old.
5
Gather supporting documents
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Proof of land ownership (current Title or Registration Statement).
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Owner Builder course certificate or exemption letter.
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Proof of identity (e.g., driver's licence, passport, or QBCC licence).
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Additional documents for companies, leaseholders, or partially built dwellings (see details in official guidelines).
6
Provide a plan of your work
Include a detailed description of your build or renovation, including features like carports, pools, pergolas, bedrooms, bathrooms, and materials. If work has already started, indicate what's done and what's planned.
7
Complete the application form
All owners, lessees, or directors must sign. The Nominated Permit Holder (completed course) goes first. Provide a valid email for correspondence. Download the Owner Builder Permit Form (PDF).
8
Lodge and pay fees
Lodge application with QBCC and pay for the permit application fee.
For full details visit the QBCC website — qbcc.qld.gov.au
Key Owner Builder Tasks
Hire Licensed Contractors
You must hire contractors with the relevant QBCC contractor's licence.
Work You Cannot Do Without a Licence
Unless you hold the correct occupational licence, you cannot personally perform:
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Plumbing
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Drainage
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Gasfitting
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Termite management (chemical treatment)
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Asbestos Restrictions
You cannot remove more than 10m² of asbestos unless you hold the appropriate asbestos removal licence.
Owner Builder Sign
Before starting work, you must display a sign on your property to show that you are an owner builder. Failing to do so may result in a fine.
Your sign must:
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Be clearly visible from the street
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Show your Owner Builder permit number
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Be made of weatherproof material
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Be at least 0.5 m² in size
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Have letters at least 50mm high
Insurance Requirements
Insurance is vital for shielding your finances from unforeseen events. In QLD, specific protections must be in place to cover the unique risks of managing your own construction project.
- QBCC Insurance: Understand the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme requirements for owner builders.• Public Liability: Essential for covering injuries or property damage affecting third parties on site.• Workers Compensation: Required through WorkSafe QLD if you are directly employing people rather than subcontractors.