Engaging a registered certifier

Before starting construction, the developer is required to appoint a certifier registered in NSW under Fair Trading’s Building and Development Certifier scheme (BDC). The developer must obtain a Construction Certificate via a registered certifier, confirming that the plans comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA) provisions. Often the same certifier is re-engaged to oversee compliance throughout the project.

Key considerations:

• Accreditation – The certifier must be accredited as a registered certifier, which can be verified through the Building Certifiers Public Register. The certifier must be also authorised to certify the appropriate class of building. For safety reasons, an ECEC centre is considered Class 9b, a building where large numbers of people assemble.
• Experience – While not mandatory, it is strongly recommended to engage a certifier with prior experience in certifying ECEC facilities. This helps ensure they understand how the Education and Care Services National Regulations and Children (Education and Care Services) National Law interface with the BCA/National Construction Code.

Key links

• Finding and appointing a certifier
• Building classifications (ABCB)