Andrew Bennett

Receiving a Building Notice or Building Order from your local Council can be concerning, particularly if you’re unsure what the notice means or what you need to do next.

Council may issue a notice where it believes building work has been undertaken without the required approval, a structure does not meet applicable building or safety requirements, or a property is being used in a manner that has not been authorised. Depending on the circumstances, Council may require the issue to be rectified and, in more serious cases, may pursue fines, legal action, or the removal or demolition of unauthorised works.

Importantly, receiving a notice does not necessarily mean that demolition or other enforcement action is unavoidable. In many cases, property owners have an opportunity to respond to Council and show cause as to why further action should not be taken. This may involve providing supporting information, addressing the identified issues, or proposing a suitable pathway to bring the property into compliance.

Council processes can be difficult to navigate, particularly when you’re dealing with technical requirements and strict timeframes. Obtaining professional advice early can help you understand your position, communicate effectively with Council, and identify the most appropriate way forward.

We help property owners manage unauthorised building works and Council enforcement matters, providing practical assistance with Council correspondence, compliance issues, rectification options, and applications for approval where appropriate. Our focus is on finding a realistic solution that protects your property and helps achieve the best possible outcome.