Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Applying for a Building Certificate in NSW (and How to Avoid Them)
- Cameron Rowe
- Apr 9
- 2 min read
Top 5 Mistakes People Make When Applying for a Building Certificate in NSW (and How to Avoid Them)
Applying for a Building Information Certificate (BIC) in NSW—especially in areas like Sydney or Wollongong—might seem straightforward, but many homeowners and property buyers make critical mistakes that lead to delays, rejections, or unnecessary costs.
At BuildingInformationCertificate.com.au, we’ve helped countless clients avoid these common pitfalls. In this article, we break down the top 5 mistakes people make when applying for a BIC—and how to get it right the first time.
Mistake #1: Applying Without a Current Survey Plan
A current survey plan is one of the most important documents required by council. Many applicants submit outdated or generic site plans that don’t reflect the actual structure, causing delays or outright rejection.
Pro Tip: Always engage a licensed surveyor to create an up-to-date plan showing existing buildings, boundaries, and any unapproved additions. We can recommend trusted surveyors if needed.
Mistake #2: Ignoring Minor Structures That Still Require Approval
Some applicants believe that small additions like pergolas, decks, or carports don’t need to be included in the BIC application. Unfortunately, councils often take the view that any unapproved structure can pose a compliance risk.
Pro Tip: Disclose everything—even small modifications. We’ll help you assess which elements need to be included to avoid complications down the track.
Mistake #3: Submitting an Incomplete or Poor-Quality Application
Missing documents, unclear photos, and vague descriptions are among the most common reasons BIC applications get delayed or refused by councils like Wollongong City Council or City of Sydney.
Pro Tip: Our team reviews and packages every application to meet your specific council’s requirements. No guesswork. No missing paperwork.
Mistake #4: Waiting Until the Last Minute (Especially During Property Sales)
Many property owners or real estate agents wait too long to apply for a BIC—often just weeks before settlement. If the process is delayed, it can impact the entire transaction.
Pro Tip: Start early. BIC approvals can take 3–6 weeks, and some councils may request additional inspections or documentation. The earlier you engage us, the smoother the process.
Mistake #5: Not Understanding Local Council Differences
Each local council across NSW has different rules, checklists, and application portals. A one-size-fits-all approach can lead to frustration and wasted time.
Pro Tip: We handle applications across Sydney, Wollongong, and all NSW councils. We know the differences—and how to navigate each one.
What Happens If You Make These Mistakes?
Making even one of the above errors can result in:
Costly delays
Non-compliance notices from council
Rejection of your application
Legal risks when selling or insuring your property
Let the Experts Handle It
At BuildingInformationCertificate.com.au, we take the guesswork out of the process. Whether you’re dealing with unapproved works, selling a property, or responding to a council notice, we’ll help you get your BIC approved with minimal hassle.
📞 Call us on 0491 629 310
📧 Email: cameron@wollongongdrafting.com
