Owner Builder

Accreditation

Course

Owner Builder

Accreditation

Course

Owner Builder Accreditation - hero image.
Owner Builder Accreditation - hero image.

What is Owner Building?

Owner Builder Accreditation - hero image.

Owner building refers to the practice of an individual, known as the owner-builder, taking on the responsibility for managing and coordinating the construction, renovation, or building work on their own property. This approach is often chosen by individuals who want more control over the building process, have specific design preferences, or aim to save costs by managing aspects of the project themselves. To become an Owner Builder you must have completed an Owner Builder course, which can be completed online and takes a few hours.

Owner Builder Accreditation - hero image.

What Are The Benefits Of Owner Building?

Owner Builder Accreditation with Build Buddy - mobile page icon.
Owner Builder Accreditation.

Savings

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Control

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Flexibility

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Satisfaction

Owner Builder Accreditation course section.

What is the Owner Builder Course?

Owner Builder Accreditation course section.

The Owner Builder Course is a mandatory course that all individuals must complete prior to becoming eligible to apply for the Owner Builder Permit. All individuals require an owner-builder permit if they wish to supervise or do building work worth more than $10,000 on your home, where you are not contracting a licensed builder - you must hold an owner-builder permit.

How Do You Become an Owner Builder?

QLD

NSW

Course Providers

Must be registered with https://training.gov.au/

Apply for Owner Builder Permit

White Card Requirements

Permit Limitations

Can’t build Duplex but can build Granny Flats

n/a

Issuing Date

Once every 6 years

Once every 5 years

Units of Competency

QLD has a specifically tailored single unit of competency which is heavily focused on owner builder activities.

Course competencies:

  • Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in the construction industry (Course code CPCCWHS2001)
  • Read and interpret plans and specifications (Course code CPCCCM2001)
  • Undertake basic estimation and costing (Course code CPCCCM1011A)
  • Plan and organise work (Course code CPCCCM1013)
  • Conduct workplace communication (Course code CPCCCM1014)

Application Process After Course Completion

Owner Builder Accreditation form.

After finishing the Owner Builder Course, applicants need a white card and a completed application form. To obtain the Owner-Builder permit, registration with Service NSW or Queensland Building and Construction Commission is mandatory, along with submitting certifications from the Owner Builder Centre.
Note: Only approved Registered Training Organisations can provide the course and certification; beware of unregistered online providers.

Owner Builder Accreditation form.
Owner Builder Accreditation.

Build Buddy is Here to Help

Owner Builder Accreditation.

While Build Buddy does not directly issue owner builder certificates, we are committed to supporting our users in their accreditation journey. We recommend Absolute Education to complete the Owner Builder course

Owner Builder Accreditation - Absolute Education

Ensuring that you choose a reputable and accredited training organisation is essential for a smooth and valid accreditation process. Build Buddy is here to support you on this journey towards becoming a certified Owner Builder.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is owner building worth it?

    If you are looking to be in control of your new home build, owner building with Build Buddy may be perfect for you! Becoming an owner builder depends on your individual circumstances, skills, and dedication. Build Buddy helps relieve the time, energy, and problem-solving abilities needed with navigating regulations, finding reliable tradies and staying on budget. Owner Building with Build Buddy can offer creative control and significant savings of up to 20% or more. With the right tools and resources, this process can be less daunting for anyone aspiring to become an owner builder. 


    With Build Buddy, anyone can become an owner builder. The intuitive and intelligent platform is easy to use, making the process of owner building worth it. We aim to support every part of the owner builder’s journey from the initial stages of becoming an owner builder to making selections from a large pool of accredited and local trades. Build Buddy can also help maximise your savings by offering exclusive trade pricing on thousands of products and fixtures. We have partnered with only the best brands to ensure WHOLESALE prices are offered to the public!


    This allows you to easily navigate these challenges with flexibility and enjoy the ultimate satisfaction of building your dream home, YOUR WAY.

  • What is required for owner builder NSW?

    To become an owner builder in NSW, you must:

    • Obtain an Owner-Builder Permit from the NSW Fair Trading for projects valued at over $10,000 on your own home
    • Complete certain units of competency or approved equivalent qualifications and experience for projects valued at over $20,000
    • Obtain a white card for construction work

    In supporting your owner builder journey, Build Buddy recommends Absolute Education to complete the Owner Builder course.

  • What is required for owner builder QLD?

    To become an owner builder in QLD, you must:

    • Obtain a Owner-Builder Permit from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) for projects valued at over $11,000 on your own home
    • Complete an owner builder course from a course provider recognised by the QBCC (subject to an exemption being granted)

  • What can an owner builder do in NSW?

    As the property owner and now owner builder in NSW, you are able to personally perform the construction work and be the Head Contractor of your building project. You can supervise and coordinate the construction, alteration, repair and additions to a residential property where the market cost (including labour and materials) exceeds $10,000. 


    HOWEVER, obtaining an Owner-Builder permit has its limitations. Exclusions include:

    • Renovations to an existing apartment/unit/flat/townhouse within a strata complex
    • Property not for residential purposes
    • Any work other than the project covered by the development application or complying development certificate
    • Specialist work such as electrical, plumbing, gas fitting, air-conditioning and refrigeration work
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