Understanding the Building Approval Process in Western Australia
Navigating the building approval process in Western Australia can often seem complex due to the broad scope and detailed regulations outlined in the Building Act.
This guide aims to clarify what the Building Act covers, the various exemptions available, and the responsibilities of different stakeholders.
What the Building Act Covers
The Building Act encompasses all constructions identified as buildings, which includes permanent structures like residential homes and commercial buildings, as well as structures that are attachable to these buildings.
Importantly, the definition extends to transportable and movable structures once they are installed on a site.
This comprehensive coverage ensures that all significant forms of construction are regulated for safety and compliance.
What is a Building?
The Building Act does not offer a formal definition of a building, instead relying on common understanding.
This includes any structure typically recognised as a building, such as houses and commercial establishments.
This also covers transportable buildings, which are considered buildings once they are fixed to a location.
Parts of Buildings and Building Components
The Act makes a clear distinction between parts of a building (like extensions or renovations) and building components (like prefabricated elements).
It's crucial to recognise that building components become part of a building once assembled on-site, bringing them under the Act's jurisdiction.
Exemptions and When They Apply
Understanding exemptions can significantly streamline your building project. The Building Act details several exemptions for structures based on their nature and duration of use.
For example:
Temporary structures such as tents used for less than a month typically do not require permits.
Smaller structures like garden sheds or certain non-permanent fixtures may also be exempt depending on their size and function.
Transportable and Relocated Buildings
Transportable buildings are not classified as buildings during manufacture.
However, once they are placed and fixed on a site, they require a building permit and must comply with all relevant building standards.
Similarly, relocated buildings must meet current building standards for life safety when moved, although other standards from their original construction time may still apply if the usage remains unchanged.
Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Interestingly, vehicles such as planes and trains, when converted for stationary use like housing or dining, fall under the Act once they are adapted for such use and affixed to a location.
Incidental Structures
The Act also regulates incidental structures, which are structures related to or attached to buildings, such as fences or swimming pools.
Whether a structure is considered incidental depends on its connection and utility to the main building.
Understanding Exemptions
The Act provides clear guidelines on what kinds of building works are exempt from requiring permits.
This includes certain temporary buildings, buildings used for infrastructure projects, and other minor structures detailed in the regulations.
General Responsibilities:
Owners are responsible for ensuring that their buildings, whether requiring a permit or not, comply with all applicable standards upon completion.
Builders and Demolition Contractors must adhere strictly to the Act's provisions, ensuring that all construction or demolition activities comply with the approved plans and permits.
Building Surveyors are tasked with certifying that designs and constructions meet all regulatory standards.
Whether you are a homeowner planning a renovation or a developer embarking on a new commercial project, understanding the scope of the Building Act, available exemptions, and your responsibilities can significantly affect the success and legality of your project.
Always consult with the permit authority to ensure compliance and to navigate the approval process effectively.
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