In October 2017, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) clarified the regulations regarding roof replacement work: When roofing works involve the replacement of more than 20 per cent of the existing roof area, a Building Approval is required. The building approval must be obtained by either the roofing contractor or the property owner.

The general durability of roofs means that it is not uncommon for a roof covering to last 40 to 50 years before replacement is necessary. During that timeframe, building standards and the performance of the materials used for roofing can change dramatically. As such, the intended performance of the new roof system needs to be accurately assessed. This is the primary reason why a Building Approval must be sought when replacing a roof.

The Building Approval is reviewed by a building certifier who is responsible for ensuring that the roofing system being proposed is suitable for its intended purpose and compliant with current standards. Those standards include but are not limited to batten size and spacings, tie-down, and including the existing roof frame.

The above assessment is required whether a roof is being replaced due to age and disrepair, or, for example, under an insurance claim following damage from a severe weather event such as a cyclone.

Roofing contractors should ensure their quotes and contracts clearly state whether the property owner or roofing contractor is responsible for obtaining the necessary building approval.

Failure to obtain a building approval can leave a homeowner with a roof that has not been lawfully approved which may affect their home insurance, or worse. The attached images show damage that can be caused to a roof with insufficient tie downs, in severe storms and high winds.

If you have any questions regarding Building Approval and Roof damage don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our roofing experts for more information (07) 3823 6888 or contact us via email https://www.certifiedroofing.com.au/contact/

In Summary below are the Building Approval Requirements:

1. RFI: RFI stands for Request for Information, sometimes also called a list of requirements. This document outlines all items required by the certifier to issue an approval.

2. Form 15: this is a certificate required before the building works can commence to certify that the design is compliant with the relevant regulations.

3. Form 16: this is a certificate required at the completion of building works to certify that the installation or inspection of a stage or aspect is compliant with the relevant regulations.

4. Form 11: this certificate is issued by a building surveyor when the building works have been substantially completed for attached dwellings or commercial to confirm it was constructed as per the building approval.

5. Form 21: this is the final certificate issued by the certifier to the owner and Council to finalise the building application.

For more information go to https://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/blog/tradie-talk/ensure-you-meet-your-administrative-requirements-when-re-roofing.