An Owner Builder is a person who constructs or renovates a domestic dwelling on his or her own land and who is not already a registered builder. Owner Builders gain great satisfaction out of building their own home by having more control over the quality and materials used in their new home.

This person needs to have an Owner Builder Permit authorising them to act as an Owner Builder. When deciding to become an owner builder, it is critical to think about all aspects of the project including the risks and liabilities.

They also need to be prepared to undertake an Owner Builder course, take on the duties and responsibilities of a building project, take on the risks, understand the building process, go through what can sometimes be a painful process of getting the required permits and certifications, and take on the mental, physical and emotional challenge.

Below is some relevant information on Becoming An Owner Builder.

Owner Builder Checklist

• Thoroughly do your research
• seriously about your budget
• Get clear on what you want
• Consult an architect, designer or draftsperson
• Do an owner builder course and get a white card
• Get your owner builder permit
• Get a building permit
• Get required insurances
• Get organised

Follow this link for more details on this checklist.

How to Become an Owner Builder

• Step 1 – engage a draftsperson/architect
• Step 2 – lodge the development application (da) with local council
• Step 3 – engage a building surveyor
• Step 4 – do an OB course (and get a white card)
• Step 5 – get your owner builder permit
• Step 6 – get the required building permit from your local council
• Step 7 – final checks by building surveyor

Follow this link for more details on how to become an owner builder.

The Building Process

The Building Process is broken down into the following stages:

• Stage One: The foundation
• Stage Two: The frame
• Stage Three: The lock-up
• Stage Four: The internal fit-out
• Stage Five: The external fit-out
• And Completion.

Follow this link for more for more information on the Building Process.

Free Tool for Owner Builders

Follow this link to access a Free Tool for Owner Builders.

Important Links

• The Owner Builder Club
• Australian Owner Builders
• Owner Builder by State
• Where to get State Relevant information
• Important Insights

Important Owner Builder Tips

Here are some important tips on becoming successful owner builder.

Owner Builder Courses

Follow the links below for the relevant State Owner Builder Courses:

• Owner Builder ACT
• Owner Builder NSW
• Owner Builder NT
• Owner Builder QLD
• Owner Builder SA
• Owner Builder TAS
• Owner Builder VIC
• Owner Builder WA

Owner Builder Handbooks

• Owner Builder Books
• Owner Builder Handbook NSW
• Owner Builder Study Guide VIC
• Owner Builder Study Guide QBCC

Disclaimer

Information provided in the text above is general in nature and does not consider your specific Owner Builder needs and requirements. The information is not professional advice and should not be treated as such. You must not rely on the information in the text above as an alternative to professional advice. If you have specific questions relating to this subject, we strongly recommend that you seek independent professional Owner Builder advice.