Lapsed permits

When a building permit lapses

If a building permit lapses and building work continues, the work becomes illegal.

The relevant building surveyor may issue a building order to stop work.

Mandatory inspections and compliance

Building work must be inspected at mandatory stages. If work continues after a permit has lapsed:

• the required inspections may not have occurred
• it may be difficult to confirm whether the work complies once completed.

If you do not comply with a building order

If you do not comply with a building order to stop work:

• the building surveyor will refer the matter to us
• we may take further action.

Approval of completed work

The building surveyor who issued the original permit may:

• refuse to approve the work
• require parts of the building to be exposed to confirm compliance.

This must happen before they can issue:

• an occupancy permit, or
• a certificate of final inspection.

When a new building permit may not be required

If your permit has lapsed and the only outstanding requirement is compliance certificates (for example, plumbing):

• a new building permit may not be required
• the building surveyor may issue the occupancy permit or certificate of final inspection once satisfactory certificates are provided.

When a new building permit is required

If your permit has lapsed and building work is not complete:

• you must apply for a new building permit to finish the work.