Thinking About Becoming an Owner-Builder in WA?

Quick Guide for Owner Builders in Western Australia 

Here's What WA Owner Builders Need to Know
If you're planning to build or renovate your own home in Western Australia, you might be considering taking on the role of an owner-builder.
It can be a rewarding path that gives you more control over your project — but there are also clear rules, responsibilities, and processes you need to follow.

In this post, we’ll break down the key owner-builder legislation in WA, what it means for you, and the steps to apply for your owner-builder approval.

What Is an Owner-Builder?
An owner-builder is someone who takes legal responsibility for domestic building work carried out on their own land — whether they physically do the work themselves or manage licensed trades to do it.
In WA, this applies to class 1a buildings (single dwellings like houses or granny flats) and associated class 10 structures (like carports or sheds), as defined under the National Construction Code.
Important: You can only be an owner-builder on a property you intend to live in — not for investment or resale purposes.

Key Owner Builder Legislation in WA
The legislation governing owner-builders in Western Australia includes:

• Building Services (Registration) Act 2011
• Building Act 2011
• Building Services (Complaint Resolution and Administration) Act 2011
• Relevant Building Regulations and the National Construction Code

These laws set out the responsibilities of an owner-builder, which include:

• Obtaining all necessary approvals and permits.
• Ensuring the work complies with all applicable building codes and standards.
• Engaging licensed trades where required (e.g., electricians, plumbers).
• Meeting obligations around occupational health and safety.
• Providing statutory warranties if the home is sold within 7 years of completion.

Can Anyone Become an Owner-Builder?

Not quite. To apply for owner-builder approval in WA, you must:

• Be the owner of the land (or have a lease over Crown land).
• Intend to live in the home once the work is complete.
• Not have held owner-builder approval within the last 6 years, unless exceptional circumstances apply.
• Be undertaking building work valued over $20,000 that requires a building permit.

The WA Owner Builder Application Process
Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your owner-builder approval in WA:

1. Complete an Approved Owner-Builder
CourseYou'll need to demonstrate your understanding of owner-builder responsibilities by completing an approved owner-builder course. Our online WA Owner-Builder Course is designed to meet this requirement and give you practical, real-world guidance.

2. Gather Your Documents
When you apply, you’ll need to include:

• Proof of identity and land ownership.
• Your completed course certificate.
• A description of the proposed building work.
• Evidence you haven’t applied for an owner-builder approval in the last 6 years (unless exempt).

3. Apply to Building and Energy WA
Submit your application to Building and Energy (a division of the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety).

There’s a non-refundable fee payable with your application. If your application is approved, you’ll receive an Owner-Builder Approval Certificate, which you must include when lodging your building permit application with your local council.

4. Lodge Your Building Permit Application
With your owner-builder course completion certificate in hand, you can now apply for a building permit through your local government. You’ll need to include full building plans, supporting documents, and any other information your local council requires.

What Happens After You’re Approved?
Once you have your building permit, you're officially underway. You become the project manager and site supervisor — responsible for timelines, safety, contractor engagement, compliance, and quality.
And remember: if you sell the home within 7 years, you’re required to provide a statutory warranty and Owner Builder Indemnity Insurance.

A Final Word to our WA Owner Builders

Taking on an owner-builder project in WA can be a cost-effective and personally satisfying way to create your home — but it’s not something to rush into without preparation. Understanding your obligations and following the right steps is key.
If you're ready to get started, we offer a fully online Owner-Builder Course that’s specifically tailored for Western Australia and approved by the regulator. It’s flexible, easy to follow, and gives you the foundation you need to apply with confidence.

Start your WA Owner-Builder Course today and get one step closer to building your dream home — your way.
click here to start your owner builder journey now!