Common Reasons a Building Information Certificate Application Runs Into Trouble

Most Building Information Certificate applications can be resolved with the right approach, but some hit bumps along the way. Knowing the common pitfalls in advance helps you avoid them, and it’s a big part of why working with someone experienced makes the process smoother.

Here are some of the issues that can complicate a BIC application.

Missing or incomplete documentation is one of the most frequent causes of delay. If the council doesn’t have enough information to assess the existing structure, it will ask for more, and that stretches out the timeline. Getting the documentation right the first time is key.

Structures that don’t sit comfortably within the planning controls can also be more involved. Where a structure has aspects that need closer attention, additional reports or information may be required to support the application.

Owner’s consent issues can trip people up too. The application generally needs to be made with the proper authority of the property owner, so this needs to be in order before lodgement, particularly where ownership is shared or has changed.

Underestimating what a structure needs is another common one. People sometimes assume a structure is simple, only to find it requires more supporting information than expected. A proper assessment upfront avoids that surprise.

The reassuring news is that nearly all of these issues can be avoided with good preparation. That’s exactly what we do: we assess the structure properly from the start, work out precisely what’s needed, and manage the application so it has the best chance of running smoothly.

If you’d like your structure assessed before you apply, we’re here to help you get it right the first time.