As building consultants, my team and I regularly meet property owners who have uncovered unapproved or non-compliant works on their home or investment property. It can be an overwhelming discovery. For many people, it appears without warning during a property purchase, renovation, or routine council inspection. What often starts as a small concern can quickly escalate into a complex situation that requires specialist guidance.
How Unapproved Works Are Discovered
There are a few common ways illegal building works come to light.
During a property sale
Many buyers only learn about unapproved additions or modifications once a pre purchase inspection or due diligence check is completed. What looked like a simple extension or shed may in fact not have the correct approvals in place and risk being non-compliant with the Building Regulations.
During renovations
When trades start removing materials or opening walls, it is not unusual for them to find work that has been carried out without the proper approvals or permits. This can affect timelines, budgets and the overall scope of the project.
Through council or authority inspections
Sometimes compliance issues are discovered during routine checks or when a neighbour raises a concern. This often results in a council direction that requires owners to show cause or rectify the works.
Why Illegal Works Create Complications
The challenge with unapproved building works is not just that they break compliance rules. Building works without the required approvals have not been assessed for regulatory compliance and also have not undergone the required mandatory inspections. They can also impact property value, insurance eligibility, and safety. Many owners feel unsure about what to do first and how serious the issue may be. They also worry about the cost and time required to resolve it.
This is exactly where my team at Deemed to Perform steps in.
How Our Team Helps You Resolve the Issue
Our approach is designed to take the pressure off property owners by providing clear, practical steps toward compliance.
Assessing the extent of the issue
We begin with an inspection and review of all relevant documentation. This helps us identify what is compliant, what is not, and what will be required to move forward.
Providing expert advice
Once we understand the scope, we explain your options in plain English. Our advice is grounded in Victorian building law and tailored to your specific situation. We also draw on our specialist network of draftspeople, structural engineers and fire safety engineers who assist with the technical work required to support the compliance process.
Preparing documentation and guiding you through the process
We prepare the necessary reports, drawings and compliance documentation needed for council or a relevant building surveyor who may be engaged to issue a building permit for any required rectification works. If a show cause response is required, we assist with that too. Our goal is to ensure you are supported from the first phone call to final resolution.
Throughout the process we provide trustworthy, independent advice and maintain full transparency about likely implications, timelines and feasibility so you can make informed decisions with confidence.
Need Help with Unapproved Building Works?
If you have discovered illegal or non-compliant building works and feel unsure about your next steps, my team and I are here to help.
Contact us today and we will guide you through the entire process with clarity and confidence.
