HIA Regions
/upload/hia/images/regional/nsw/nswmini.jpg Australia Wide ACT / Southern NSW Hunter New South Wales North Queensland Northern Territory Queensland South Australia Tasmania Victoria Western Australia
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Approvals & Inspections

There are different planning and building approval systems in every state and territory of Australia. Understanding the your states approval system better can help to speed up your dealings with local councils and to get your job finished faster.

  • Current at: 09 January 2009
    Drawing standards: dimensioning of ceiling heights (Nat)

    The standard practice when dimensioning floor plans is to show room size dimensions between the structural components of the walls and not include internal wall linings, for example plasterboard or wall tiling. However for ceiling heights, there is some difference of opinion within the building industry as to whether the dimension includes floor and ceiling linings or finishes.
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  • Current at: 09 January 2009
    Building using other peoples plans (Nat)

    Builders are often asked to provide a construction price for plans and specifications prepared by another person. It is important to remember that these plans may not be totally accurate in relation to construction details and/or material selection – no one is perfect.
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  • Current at: 11 September 2008
    Planning and building approval process (NSW/Hunter/Sthn NSW)

    In NSW, the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act (EP&A Act) is the principal law overseeing the assessment and determination of development proposals. There are three main types of development in NSW for residential buildings.
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  • Current at: 29 November 2007
    Building inspections - 10 things to look out for (Nat)

    HIA asked the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors to identify their 10 most common problems when inspecting building work. Problems during inspections cause delays and expense for builders and home owners alike. This information sheet presents a list of 10 common problems identified by the AIBS to help HIA Members avoid or overcome potential pitfalls.
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