PRIVATE CERTIFIER IN THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
With more than two decades of experience, you receive clear, compliant approvals with direct certifier oversight.
CLEAR GUIDANCE THROUGH EVERY APPROVAL STAGE
Navigating building approvals can feel complex when timelines, compliance and council requirements overlap. As a trusted private certifier, Focus Building Certifiers based in Bowral NSW, provides clear, structured guidance throughout the approval process.
Clients value this service because:
- Clear guidance designed to minimise delays and costly redesigns
- Direct communication from an experienced certifier throughout
From Complying Development Certificate (CDC) assessments, Construction Certificate Approvals (CC), and Occupation Certificates (OC), every stage is managed with professionalism and attention to detail. If you require clear, practical advice from an experienced private certifier, please call Stephen on 0428 249 493 to discuss your development in the Southern Highlands.
COMPLYING DEVELOPMENT CERTIFICATES
We issue Complying Development Certificates (CDC) for projects that meet the criteria set out under NSW legislation. This pathway can provide faster approvals when the planning controls are satisfied. Coordinating closely with the builders and designers, we can help prevent delays.
CONSTRUCTION CERTIFICATES
Once the Development Consent from Council is granted, we review the plans for compliance with the Building Code of Australia and all relevant legislation. Once this is completed, we can issue a Construction Certificate approval. This stage confirms regulatory compliance and provides confidence before breaking ground.
OCCUPATION CERTIFICATES
An Occupation Certificate is the final safeguard confirming that a building is safe, compliant and ready to be occupied. We conduct the final inspection, review the required documentation and verify that all legislative conditions have been satisfied before issuing the Occupation Certificate. For homeowners, this provides peace of mind and for builders it offers documented compliance.
NSW PLANNING PORTAL INFORMATION
All Construction Certificate, Complying Development Certificate and Occupation Certificate applications in NSW must now be lodged through the NSW Planning Portal. To submit an application, you’ll first need to create your Planning Portal account before selecting Focus Building Certifiers as your Registered Certifier. Once lodged, you’ll receive email updates throughout the approval process, including notifications when documentation has been uploaded and registered with Council. Principal Certifier appointments and Notices of Commencement are also completed through the portal, helping streamline the approval and compliance process for your project.
The NSW Planning Portal is now a mandatory platform that the NSW Government has introduced where all Construction Certificates, Complying Development Certificates and Occupation Certificates applications must be lodged to a Registered Certifier.
PROTECTING WHAT MATTERS
Building certification is more than meeting regulatory requirements. It helps protect families investing in their homes, supports builders delivering quality workmanship and ensures development happens responsibly.
Practical Risk Reduction
Clear, Steady Guidance
Community-Focused Oversight
REQUEST A CONSULTATION
Tell us about your project and where you are in the approval process. We’ll provide clear guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
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FAQs
What is the difference between a Complying Development Certificate and a Development Application?
A Complying Development Certificate (CDC) is a fast-tracked approval pathway available when a project meets specific planning and building standards under NSW legislation. A Development Application (DA), on the other hand, is required when a proposal falls outside those prescribed standards and must be assessed by Council. After the DA is approved, a Construction Certificate is still required before building work can begin. Focus Building Certifiers can certainly issue the Construction Certificates for your development.
When is a Principal Certifier required for a project?
A Principal Certifier must be appointed before any building work commences on an approved development. This role involves overseeing the construction phase and carrying out critical stage inspections to verify compliance with approved plans and relevant legislation. The Principal Certifier ensures that the required documents are collated and standards such as the Building Code of Australia are met. If a critical stage inspection is missed, the Certifier is legally required to assess the situation and determine whether work can proceed. The appointment of the Principal Certifier is a mandatory part of the NSW building process.
What happens if an Occupation Certificate is not obtained?
An Occupation Certificate confirms that a building is suitable for occupation and has met all required legislative conditions. Without this certificate, a building cannot be legally occupied or used. The certificate verifies that critical inspections were completed, documentation was submitted and the approved plans were followed. Failing to obtain an Occupation Certificate can result in compliance issues, delays and potential legal consequences. It is the final safeguard ensuring that a completed project is safe and compliant.
