Certificate of Classification

A Certificate of Classification is a document resulting from a Final Building Inspection which specifies a building’s classification and describes the way it can be used.

 

A Certificate of Classification is issued by a building certifier (either a private certifier or local government certifier) once the certifier is satisfied that the building, alterations, or change of use are substantially complete.

 

Generally, a copy of the Certificate can be obtained from Council for a fee. The certifier must also keep a copy of the Certificate on file for a minimum of five years. You are able to obtain a copy of your Certificate of Classification by completing a Building and Development Search Form.

 

The Building Act 1975 requires building owners to obtain a Final Certificate for all Commercial Building Approvals (this includes commercial and residential units) prior to the occupation or use of the building. This Certificate is issued when the Final Inspection has passed have been satisfied and all .

 

On 23 April 2008, section 108A was incorporated into the Building Act 1975, which requires building owners to ensure that Certificates of Classification for class 1b to 9 buildings are conspicuously displayed as near as practicable to the main entrance of the building.

 

Where the premises are occupied by multiple tenants (e.g. a shopping centre), and the tenants have each obtained a Certificate for their fitout or other works, these Certificates will need to be displayed in addition to the Certificate for the building itself.  

 

Multiple penalties are enforceable for failing to obtain and display a Certificate of Classification, these include:

 

The maximum penalty for failing to comply with a condition of a Development Approval (Section 580 Sustainable Planning Act 2009), such as not calling for a Final Inspection prior to the occupation/ use of a building is 1665 penalty units;

 

The maximum penalty for an owner occupying or allowing the occupation of a building where a Certificate of Classification has not been issued (Section 114 Building Act 1975) is 165 penalty units;

 

The maximum penalty for failing to display a Certificate of Classification (Section 108A Building Act 1975) is 165 penalty units.

 

http://www.dlgp.qld.gov.au/resources/factsheet/building/certificates-classification.pdf