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ARTICLE · 09 SEPTEMBER 2025

Building certification in Queensland: Why developers shouldn't rely blindly on building certificates

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Building certification is a critical milestone for any development, but a certifier's sign-off does not guarantee compliance or protection.

AustraliaReal Estate and Construction
Kirsty Smith
Kirsty Smith
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Building certification is a critical milestone for any development, but a certifier's sign-off does not guarantee compliance.

Certifiers rely on certificates issued by 'competent persons', such as engineers, surveyors, and fire consultants, and do not independently verify every technical detail. If those underlying certificates are inaccurate, incomplete or misleading, the risk ultimately rests with the principal, potentially resulting in costly defects, delays, regulatory action, or claims from purchasers.

In Queensland, building compliance relies heavily on a system of certificates issued at different stages of the project to give principals, developers and regulators assurance that the work meets statutory requirements and approved plans. Key certificates include:

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This publication does not deal with every important topic or change in law and is not intended to be relied upon as a substitute for legal or other advice that may be relevant to the reader's specific circumstances. If you have found this publication of interest and would like to know more or wish to obtain legal advice relevant to your circumstances please contact one of the named individuals listed.

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