But before the tradesman, a project needs to first run through the hands of an accredited certifier.

One of those certifiers is local company Newface Certifications (NFCERT).

Based in Thornleigh with a combined 40 years of experience in the industry, NFCERT are a NSW accredited private building certification company. Providing independent certification services across both residential and commercial developments, NFCERT works with homeowners, builders, developers, and architects.

Certification occurs one of two ways—either local council appoints an in-house certifier, or the owner contracts out the job to a private certifier like NFCERT. Though local council appointed certifiers mean the owner does not need to source one themselves, there are advantages to finding a private certifier—namely, the process is more straightforward, personalised, and certification is quicker.

‘We guide clients step-by-step, simplify technical requirements into plain English, and ensure all applications are fully compliant,’ says Hugh Bodley, Chief Operations Officer at NFCERT. ‘We streamline the approval process with upfront guidance, personal service and fast turnaround times while still holding fast to the local planning and development requirements.’

There are three main approvals in NSW that NFCERT specialise in. Hugh explains each one.

‘Complying Development Certificates or CDCs are a fast-track approval for certain developments that meet strict planning and building rules. These can be approved after 14 days if all the required documentation has been supplied.

‘Construction Certificates or CCs are an approval assuring that the Development Consent plans issued by council meet the National Construction Code NCC and consent conditions before building work starts. You must go to council to obtain the initial development consent then a private certifier can take over to issue the approval to start works (CC) and undertake inspections during construction.

‘And Occupation Certificates or OCs are a confirmation that the completed building is safe and suitable to occupy. A certifier issues the necessary approvals and carries out inspections throughout the build to ensure safety, sustainability, and legal compliance.’

NFCERT services the Greater Sydney region and have worked on projects across NSW.