Frequently Asked Questions
What does a building surveyor do?
A building surveyor makes sure your building project meets minimum legal and safety standards—so you can build with confidence. A building surveyor independently:
- reviews your plans and issues the building permit
- ensures neighbouring properties are protected
- carry outs (or arranges) all required inspections
- issues your occupancy permit or final inspection certificate.
They can also take enforcement action if something isn’t up to standard.
For more information, refer to the Domestic Consumer Building Guide—your builder must give you a copy before building starts.
Do I need to appoint a building surveyor or can my builder handle that?
Your builder can recommend a building surveyor, but the choice is yours. Pick someone who understands your project, puts your needs first and keeps things working. Discover how working with us gives you the edge.
What are the mandatory building inspections for constructing a new home?
Every new home must pass four mandatory inspections: pre-slab, steel, frame and final. In some cases, additional mandatory inspections may be required – like piers, subfloors or fire-separation walls – depending on your build. Your builder might also suggest extra inspections, such as preplaster, waterproofing or final. These aren’t required by law but can help catch issues early and give extra peace of mind.
Why does it matter that we have the largest building inspections team?
Because consistency, speed and scale counts. Backed by the largest building inspections team in Victoria and a small, select network of trusted contract building inspectors, we ensure quality, consistency and compliance across every inspection – no matter the size of your build or location.
Who pays for the building inspections?
Mandatory inspection costs are typically included in the homeowner’s building costs.
When does a building surveyor communicate with me during my build?
We communicate primarily with your builder but keep you updated with key documents – like our appointment form, building permit, amendments and any written directions to fix building work.
How much does a building permit cost?
Our fees vary by project size and complexity. Speak with your builder or contact us directly for a quote.
Are your building surveyors and inspectors qualified?
Yes. All our building surveyors and building inspectors are registered with the Building and Plumbing Commission.
How long does it take to issue a building permit?
Permit turnaround is usually 3-5 working days – often faster if everything’s in order.
How do I get a copy of my building permit?
We will email you a copy once we issue your building permit. Your builder gets one too.
If I have questions about my building permit, who should I contact?
Start with your builder – they know your project best. If they can’t help, they’ll check with us and get back to you.
I received a ‘written direction to fix.’ What does this mean?
No action needed. Your builder may already be fixing the issues but must resolve everything before approval.
What do you check during inspections?
We check compliance with your building permit and building codes. Workmanship or quality issues, like paint finish or tiling flaws, are the builder’s responsibility.
Do I need a building inspection?
Yes, building inspections are legally required to ensure your home is safe and complies with the building permit and codes.
Do you inspect existing homes?
No, we only inspect new builds.
Does Group Four handle apartments or commercial buildings?
No, we focus on residential homes – single-storey, multi-storey, dual occupancies – not apartments or commercial buildings.
Owner-builder? Can Group Four issue your permit?
You need a current builder’s licence (DB-U) for us to issue a permit.