Building search
Building search provides information that Council has record of in the form of a letter about approved building applications.
Building search does not include copies of any building plans or documents or certificates, other than certificate of occupancy if applicable. Find out about applying for copies of building plans or documents.
For information about building approvals, visit building approvals.
For information about pool fencing, visit pool fencing and safety regulations.
Related transactions
Building search options
Options | Details of search |
---|---|
Option 1 Property improved by a single detached class 1a dwelling being a standalone house used for residential purposes |
A comprehensive building search consists of three search types as listed below. Building search fees and charges are applied for each search type. Building search will provide information in the form of a letter identifying:
|
Option 2 Property improved by a building/structure OTHER THAN a single detached class 1a dwelling |
A comprehensive building search consists of three search types as listed below. Building search fees and charges are applied for each search type. Building search will provide the information in the form of a letter identifying:
|
Fees and time to process
Council provides two levels of processing for building search - standard and fast track. Different fees apply for each search.
Building search applications are processed within the following timeframes:
- standard - 10 business days after the date of lodgement
- fast track - three business days after the date of lodgement.
How to lodge a building search
You can lodge a building search online and pay by credit card.
Alternatively, download the building search application (PDF - 92kb). To lodge the application form you can:
- visit Council and make payment in person
- mail the application with a cheque to:
Brisbane City Council
GPO Box 1434
Brisbane Qld 4001.
Unapproved structures
A property may have an extension or alteration that does not appear on a building search. If you are proposing to buy the property, ask your solicitor to discuss the unapproved structure with the vendor. You solicitor may require the extension or alteration to be approved as part of the sale conditions. In this case, the property owner will need to organise approval via a building certifier.