A retrospective building approval, also known as an “as-built” approval, is a process where you have to seek approval for building work that has already been completed without a building approval or when the building approval has not been finalised.

Think of a retrospective building approval as your property’s chance to shine! If building work was completed without the necessary approvals, this process helps you make it official and realise the value of the work that has been completed.

Absolutely, as long as your building meets the necessary requirements! We understand that sometimes approvals aren’t secured before work begins, and we’re here to help you get things back on track with a straightforward two-step process:

1. Inspection – We conduct a thorough assessment of your unapproved structure. This isn’t about pointing out mistakes, it’s about understanding your situation and identifying the best way forward.

2. Approval – Once we’ve reviewed everything, we will outline what’s required and guide you through the approval stage.

Our goal is to make the process clear, transparent, and stress-free. We’ll explain your options in plain language, highlight potential challenges or costs upfront, and give you an honest view of your likelihood of success. That way, you can make confident decisions to protect, and maximise, the value of your property.

We like to keep it simple.

• Step 1: Inspection – A flat fee of $985 (local). This includes a thorough inspection, answers to your questions, and a detailed report.

• Step 2: Approval – Our team will give you a ballpark estimate upfront when you book the inspection, and the exact cost will be confirmed after Step 1 is complete.

To get your approval started, just book your inspection today. If you have important deadlines – like a sales contract or show cause notice – let us know so we can work to your timeframe.

We will run as fast as you can. If you have a contract in place, or a show cause deadline, let us know in your booking and we will sprint!

There are some things you can do to speed it up. Get as much paperwork together as you can (you can use our assessment checklist). If you don’t have your building approval records go to your local council website and order them today.

Once we complete the inspection we will be able to provide a guide on the timeline and we find out if it’s a marathon or a 100m dash! Get your running shoes on and book your inspection today.

On August 1, 2025 The Property Law Act 2023 commenced. This law requires sellers to provide a disclosure statement which includes details of unlicensed building work.

Regardless of this law, having illegal work will negatively impact your property’s value. A retrospective building approval is a process that allows you to release your property’s full potential, ensure there are no nasty surprises during the often tense negotiation period and give you confidence in what you are selling and the price you are asking for it. Book an inspection  today, realise your value and get peace of mind.