A guide for Owner Builders on the Central Coast

Builder an owner builder is very risky, you have a lot on the line and don't have industry experience or contacts. If you can afford it use a professional builder, not everyone can afford this though so you may have no choice except to be an owner builder.

Unlimited Possibilities, Limited Budget:

With an owner builder approach, you have the freedom to explore endless creative options without breaking the bank. By managing the project yourself, you can save a significant amount of money, allowing you to allocate your budget where it matters most. It will have a big impact on your time though.

Handpicked Dream Team:

Tired of relying on others to bring your vision to life? As an owner builder, you get to handpick each and every tradesperson, ensuring that you have a dream team that shares your passion for perfection. With a little research, you can find the best tradespeople and craftsmen, resulting in a home renovation that exceeds your expectations.  Builders do have an advantage in that they are repeat customers and may get priority, this is one of the ways engaging a builder can be advantageous.

If you've made up your mind to become an owner builder, here's what you need to know:

Projects under $10,000 don't require an owner builder permit, giving you the freedom for smaller-scale endeavors.

For projects between $10,000 and $20,000, complete an owner builder course and apply for a permit to embark on a more ambitious renovation journey. How to apply can be found on the service nsw website here.

What to do after you have completed the owner builders course:

You've done the course, you are ready to apply you go to apply and service NSW asks for the Complying Development Number or Construction Certificate Number. You go back and try and apply for either a Complying Development Approval, it won't let you submit until you have an owner's builders permit though. What do you do? You are stuck. Its a flaw in the system. 

The only way to resolve it is to call Central Coast Council or your certifier and get their help. This is an obvious flaw in the system I really wish they would resolve.

If you are using Central Coast Council as your certifier, here are their details:

Search by Name for Central Coast Council:

ABN 73149644003

Company Name: Central Coast Council

Trading Name: Central Coast Council

email: daonline@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au