Berwick Building
Inspections

Permits, council and building disputes in Berwick VIC

Berwick homes are approved through a building permit from a registered building surveyor, with planning matters handled by the City of Casey. At completion the surveyor issues the occupancy permit. When a defect is disputed, the path runs from the builder in writing to the Building and Plumbing Commission dispute resolution service (formerly DBDRV), and then to VCAT.

Who approves the build

A registered building surveyor issues the building permit and the occupancy permit. Planning permits and overlays sit with the City of Casey.

Overlays to check

Some Casey properties sit in the Bushfire Management Overlay and others carry heritage or other overlays, so check the planning map for your exact lot.

Insurance

Domestic Building Insurance is required on most Victorian builds above the threshold and covers you if the builder dies, disappears or becomes insolvent.

When a builder disputes a defect

Put the defect to the builder in writing with the evidence. If it stays unresolved, the BPC dispute resolution service is next, then VCAT.

Reports for each step

A defect investigation report suits the owner and builder discussion. VCAT needs a separate expert witness report.

More about Berwick

Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Berwick. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.

Guides

Guides for Berwick owners and buyers

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FAQ

Permits, council and building disputes in Berwick VIC: common questions

Who issues the occupancy permit?

The registered building surveyor for the job, not the council.

Is my report enough for VCAT?

No. VCAT needs an expert witness report prepared to the VCAT practice note.

Is there a time limit for raising a Berwick defect?

Victorian law generally allows claims for building work within 10 years of the occupancy permit, under section 134 of the Building Act 1993.

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