Owner Builder Course WA | Owner Builder Institute

Become and Owner Builder in WA

An owner-builder is someone who takes on the responsibility of managing and carrying out building work on their own property. In Western Australia, owner-builder approval allows you to apply for a building permit from your Local Government Authority (LGA) to carry out building work yourself, but it comes with important responsibilities and legal obligations.

At the Owner Builder Institute, we provide the guidance, training, and resources you need to safely and successfully manage your owner-builder project.

What Is Owner-Builder Work?

Owner-builder work can include:
Constructing a detached dwelling, including granny flats.

Carrying out additions or alterations to an existing free-standing dwelling.
Constructing a non-habitable building such as a garage, carport, shed, or similar structures (Class 10 buildings).
Constructing or modifying small commercial buildings, limited to one or two storeys and a maximum floor area of 500m².

Important: Owner-builder work does not include attached houses like townhouses or duplexes, as these share walls or rooflines with other dwellings.

Do You Need a Licence for your build project?

If your building project requires a permit and the estimated cost exceeds $20,000, you will need either a registered building contractor or owner-builder approval.

Building work must not be split into smaller projects to avoid licensing.
Always check with your local council or the LGIRS licensing team to confirm if approval is required.

Applying to Be an Owner-Builder

To be eligible for owner-builder approval, applicants must:

Own the land (as defined under Section 39 of the Act).
Be an individual (not a company, trust, or other entity).
Have sufficient knowledge of owner-builder duties—either by completing an approved course or holding relevant registration.
Not have been granted an owner-builder permit within the last six years, unless a waiver is approved.
Intend to occupy or use the property once construction is complete.

Note: For multiple owners of the property, all registered owners must sign the application form (Form 75).

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted:

Online: [Owner-Builder Approval Online Submission]
By Post or In Person: Submit Form 75 with the Application Payment Form attached.

Important Dates:

Old versions of Form 75 will not be accepted after 1 June 2026.
Applications using older forms will be returned to the applicant.

Application Fees: Non-refundable, payable at submission.

Processing Time

Most applications are processed within 6 weeks, but delays may occur during high application volumes.

You can help speed up processing by:

Completing the application fully.
Attaching all required documents, including a current Certificate of Title or Contract to Purchase.
Submitting online.
For urgent inquiries, contact LGIRS at 1300 489 099 or email ownerbuilders@lgirs.wa.gov.au.

Owner-Builder Duties & Responsibilities

As an owner-builder, you assume many of the responsibilities of a registered builder:

Complying with the Building Code of Australia and safety regulations.
Obtaining permits and submitting required notices.
Managing and supervising the entire project.
Scheduling and supervising trades.
Ensuring work quality and rectifying defects.
Maintaining appropriate insurance coverage.

Note: Delegating work does not remove your responsibilities. You remain accountable for all building work.

Intent to Occupy

For residential projects, you must intend to live on the property after completion.
For Class 10 buildings or small commercial projects, you must intend to occupy or use the property.
Owner-builder approval is not suitable for properties intended for immediate sale.

Selling an owner-built home within seven years requires home indemnity insurance.

Validity of Approval

Expires after 6 months if no building permit application is made.
Remains valid for the duration of the building permit if approved.
Building permits are valid for two years; extensions can be requested.

Home Indemnity Insurance

Required if you sell your owner-built home within 7 years:

Protects subsequent owners if defects arise and cannot be rectified.
Covers residential building work over $20,000.
Not required for small associated works (e.g., pergolas, fences, pools).

Approved Providers in WA:

Assetinsure Pty Ltd – 1300 850 131 | AOIBS
QBE Insurance (Australia) Pty Ltd – 133 723 | QBE Builder Insurance

Key Takeaways

Owner-builder approval in WA allows you to manage and undertake building work on your property.
You carry the same risks and responsibilities as a registered builder.
Ensure you meet all eligibility, training, and insurance requirements.
Plan carefully, submit a complete application, and follow all building regulations.

WA Training Coming Soon

Exciting news: WA owner–builder training is on the way! While we are not yet delivering courses, join our email waitlist to stay updated on the latest requirements and be first in line when Western Australia-specific training launches.

Join WA Waitlist