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Search for building approvals

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Lodge a building search to check records of building approvals for a property.

Building plan with an approved stamp

What is a building search?

A building search provides a data extract of building approval records and any certificates of occupancy.

You can request a building search when buying or researching a property. 

A building search doesn't include copies of any building approval plans, documents or certificates other than certificate of occupancy, if applicable.

If you require building plans or other documents, find out how to request copies of these.

Looking for something else

Building plans and documents

Find development applications

Inspection of records search

Types of building searches

A comprehensive building search consists of 3 search types. Each provides different information that applies to the property. 

information outline

Note

  • Building search fees apply for each search type.
  • You receive information as data extract in letter form.
  • You can speed up your application for a higher fee.

This search type generates a list of building approvals dating back to 1946. It provides:

  • the building application number
  • a brief description of proposed building work
  • the approval date.

Choose the relevant search type:

Building inspection search (detached dwelling)

Request this search for a detached dwelling (standalone house) and associated structures. This provides a list of building inspection/final inspection dates for each building approval.

Certificate of occupancy search

A certificate of occupancy search provides, if available, a list of certificates of occupancy, including copies. You can request this search for structures such as:

  • warehouse
  • office
  • shop
  • unit/apartment
  • attached house/townhouse/duplex.

All buildings built after 1 April 1976 require a certificate of occupancy (formerly referred to as a certificate of classification), unless the building is a:

  • single detached class 1a building
  • class 10 building or structure.

This search type gives a list of any outstanding building property notices issued under the Building Act 1975 and Planning Act 2016.

Lodge a building search

Lodge your building search application and pay the fees online, in person or by mail. 

You can fast-track your application for an additional fee.

Before you start

To lodge your request, you need to provide:

  • the lot on plan number (located on the survey plan, title or rate account)
  • credit card details, if lodging online 
  • a cheque, if lodging by mail.

If you wish to lodge in person or by mail, you need to download and complete the building search application form.

Fees

The fees for building searches are:

  • $97.75 for standard response (10 business days)
  • $200.75 for fast-track response (3 business days).

Lodge a building search

Use the online form to lodge a building search.

Lodge a request

You can submit your hard copy form in person and pay the fee at one of our Customer Centres.

Alternatively, you can lodge your completed form by mail with a cheque to:

Brisbane City Council
GPO Box 1434
Brisbane Qld 4001