Private certifiers · the CDC and the construction certificate
Find a Certifier
A registered certifier issues the complying development certificate (CDC) that lets a code-compliant duplex, granny flat or Pattern Book home skip the DA, and the construction certificate and occupation certificate that every project needs whichever route it takes.
Type your suburb or your address.
What they do
The certifier checks the design against the Housing SEPP and the National Construction Code, issues the certificate, carries out the mandatory inspections during construction and signs off the occupation certificate at the end. They are appointed by the owner as the principal certifier and are regulated by NSW Fair Trading under the Building and Development Certifiers Act.
When you need one
At design stage on a CDC job — the certifier will tell you early whether the design fits the code, which is cheaper than finding out after the drawings are done. After DA consent, for the construction certificate. Councils also certify, but a private certifier is usually faster.
How to choose
Check the registration on the NSW Fair Trading register and ask how many CDCs of your type they have issued in your council area in the last year. Ask for a fixed fee covering the certificate, the inspections and the occupation certificate together.
Are you a certifier who works here? Apply to represent your suburb — one certifier is listed per suburb, chosen on local track record.