In every skilled profession, establishing your credibility and commitment to your craft helps you achieve long-term career success. And that especially holds true for trade professions such as building, carpentry, and construction.
For aspiring building professionals in Queensland, it’s necessary to gain formal qualifications and the right builder’s license before you can begin work. Holding a qualification and a builder’s licence demonstrates that you have learned the practical skills and have the necessary industry knowledge to work as a builder.
Who oversees Queensland builder licences?
The industry is regulated by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC), and that includes the issuing of builder licences in the state. Through the QBCC individuals can apply for various subclasses of builder licences relative to the types of jobs they plan to do.
If you plan to perform any of the following types of construction work in Queensland, you will be required to hold a current and valid builder’s licence. This includes:
- Any building work totalling more than $3,300.
- Any building work involving hydraulic services design and totalling more than $1,100.
- Any work covering site classification, building design, residential building inspection, fire protection, termite management, gas fitting, plumbing, and drainage.
However, related building and construction professionals such as electricians, handymen, and architects are not required to hold a QBCC licence.
Licence requirements for builders in Queensland vary depending on the class of licence. These requirements validate the technical skills and knowledge of best practices in construction, building, and contract administration. It can include the following:
- Evidence of completing the required units of study applicable to the licence class you are applying for.
- A certificate of recognition that qualifies you to perform the type and scope of work required by the licence class.
- A Certificate IV in Building and Construction, or successful completion of an equivalent course.
- A Diploma of Building and Construction (Building).
- Two years’ full-time equivalent experience within a maximum period of 10 years from the date of your builder licence application.
How to apply for a Queensland builder licence?
Apply by following these steps:
- Download and complete the Builder and Designer Experience Form from the QBCC website.
- Complete the Builders Licence Application Form from the QBCC website, including details regarding at minimum two to four years of relevant building experience.
- To reduce the chance of delays in processing your licence application, ensure you include proof of identity, your technical qualifications, three written references, and any relevant financial information.
- Submit your application to your local QBCC branch. If successful you will be informed by postal mail.
The licensed builder/s who act as your references for your practical builder experience must have held a Qualified Supervisor Certificate or Individual Contractor Licence in the scope of work for your class.
You also must submit a current copy of your Record of Registration from ASIC, if you intend to take on contract work under a trading name, or proof of a business partnership.
Business Insurance for Queensland Builders
From time to time, things can go wrong on the jobsite. If you accidentally damage your client’s property or your tools get stolen, BizCover is here to help. With BizCover, you can protect your assets and reputation with business insurance products such as public liability insurance in Queensland.
Go online to compare quotes and get insured in under 10 minutes, or call us on 1300 920 864 to learn more.
