Frequently Asked Questions
What are the eligibility rules for becoming an owner builder?
To become an owner-builder in Victoria, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. The main criteria is:
- You must be an individual person, not a company and you must be over 18 years of age.
- You must be the owner of the property on which the building work is to be carried out.
- You must not have carried out any owner-builder work on any property in the past five years.
Before embarking on an owner-builder project, it’s essential to carefully consider whether you have the skills, experience, and resources necessary to complete the work to a high standard.
Who regulates the Victorian Building Industry?
Victoria’s building industry is overseen by the Building Act 1993 (the Act) and regulated by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). The VBA’s role is to ensure that the building industry operates in accordance with the Act, and that buildings in Victoria are constructed safely, efficiently, and to a high standard of quality.
Can Home Owners Association help with building disputes?
DBDRV (Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria) is an autonomous government organization that offers free assistance in resolving residential building disputes. As an independent agency, DBDRV provides impartial services to homeowners and builders alike, with the aim of facilitating fair and efficient resolutions to disputes that arise during the construction or renovation of residential properties.
As a member, HOA (Home Owners Association) can assist you with the DBDRV process from application to representation.
Do you provide defect reports?
We offer the services of our experienced team of building consultants, who provide thorough and detailed reports on the condition and quality of buildings. Our team has the knowledge and expertise necessary to assess buildings for defects, damage, and other issues, and provide comprehensive reports that outline any areas of concern. Whether you’re a homeowner or property investor, our building consultants can help you make informed decisions based on accurate and reliable information about the condition of a build or property.
Are you licensed and insured?
Home Owners Association is registered with the VBA (Victorian Building Authority) and has $20 public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
My builder has gone broke. Can you help?
Certainly, we are able to assist you in managing your VMIA claim, from obtaining builders’ quotes to completing the necessary work. If you opt to proceed as an owner-builder, we can also help you obtain certification and provide guidance throughout the project to ensure that it is completed on schedule, within budget, and with minimized risk. Our services are designed to help you navigate the process smoothly and efficiently, and to provide you with the support you need to achieve a successful outcome.
As an Owner Builder, Do I need to get Building Insurance?
In the event that you sell your property within six years and six months of completing any building work, you will need to obtain domestic building insurance for any work that costs over $16,000. This insurance will help protect the buyer of your property. The insurance typically covers non-structural defects for two years and other defects for six years. After six years, the property is no longer covered by domestic building insurance.
