Did you know, works carried out under Exempt and Complying Development do not require approval? NSW Planning has stipulated conditions to conduct certain works.
You can find the certifier’s details pinned against the construction site fence.
NSW Planning provides further guidance appointing a certifier for the works. You can search for licenced certifiers under Building Certifiers Public Register.
Further information can be found before you start building to ensure proposed works are in line with Council’s Development Control Policies.
Council’s Development Application Tracking provides information on public notification on development works within Cumberland Local Government Area.
What to do if you have concerns about building works or a development site
1. Speak with the property owner or builder first
Many issues such as noise, dust, access and hours of work can be resolved quickly through direct communication. Owners or builders may not realise their activities are causing a nuisance.
2. Contact the Principal Certifier (PC)
If the issue cannot be resolved directly, the next step is to contact the Principal Certifier.
The PC's responsibilities include:
- Inspecting the development at required stages.
- Ensuring compliance with the development consent and relevant legislation.
- Issuing a Written Direction Notice within 2 days of becoming aware of non-compliance, requiring the owner or builder to rectify the issue.
3. Contact your local Council (if needed)
Councils retain enforcement powers even when a private certifier is the Principal Certifier.
They can issue:
- Compliance orders
- Stop-work orders
- Fines
Quick decision guide
Your Issue | Who to Contact | Why |
|---|---|---|
Noise, dust, access, general nuisance | Property owner / builder | Often resolved quickly through communication |
Suspected non-compliance with approval | Principal Certifier | PC must issue Written Direction Notice within 2 days |
Dangerous works, urgent safety risks | SafeWork NSW | Council can issue stop-work orders |
Private certifier's behaviour or conduct | Building Commission NSW | Fair Trading regulates certifier conduct |
Defective or incomplete residential building work | Building Commission NSW | Handles building defects, damage and workmanship issues |
