A comprehensive and accurate Building Information Certificate (BIC) application should include the following documents and details.
Note: Obtaining approval for a Building Information Certificate (BIC) is not a guaranteed outcome, due to issues regarding (a) retrospective compliance; (b) missing documentation; (c) concerns with safety/environmental effects; (d) existing objections from local community/neighbours; (e) higher standards; (f) adherence with BCA standards; (g) council discretion.
What do I need for a BIC application?
1. Planning Assessment Report
A detailed Planning Assessment Report addressing compliance with local planning controls, environmental considerations, and the specific requirements of the unauthorised works.
2. Property Survey
A survey report of the entire property, prepared by a registered surveyor, showing all structures, boundaries, and any easements.

3. Photographic Evidence
Clear photographs of the structure in its current state.
If available, construction stage photographs documenting critical stages of the structure's installation, such as:
Steel reinforcement before concrete pour.
Drainage installation before trench backfilling.
Frame construction.
Wet area waterproofing.
Stormwater connections to street gutters or easements.
4. Dimensioned Drawings
Detailed drawings including:
Site Plan: Showing the structure's location in relation to boundaries, other structures on the site, and ground levels.
Elevations: Indicating finished height relative to ground levels, materials, and finishes.
Section View Plan: Demonstrating the internal composition of the structure, such as slab/footings reinforcement, wall build-up details, and roof construction.
All drawings must:
Be drawn to scale by a qualified professional.
Include a title block with:
Plan title and sheet number.
Unique job reference number.
Revision number with a schedule of changes.
Property address.
Name of the preparer.
Scale used, north point, and print size of the sheet.
5. Structural Adequacy Certificate
A certificate from a suitably qualified structural engineer certifying that the structure meets relevant safety and stability standards.
6. Sydney Water Approval
Stamped plans showing approval by Sydney Water where required, particularly for drainage and stormwater systems.
7. Installer Certificates
Relevant installer certificates verifying the quality and compliance of installation work.
8. Work-as-Executed Drainage Plan
A drainage plan certified by a licensed plumber, including:
Compliance with AS/NZ 3500 standards.
Verification that overflow systems connect to:
Street gutters.
Easements.
Absorption pits (if applicable).
For absorption pits, hydraulic adequacy verification by an engineer with relevant design experience.
9. Owner’s Consent
A completed BIC application form with owner’s consent.
For properties with multiple owners, consent from the surviving owner(s) is acceptable if one owner is deceased.
10. BCA Report
A Building Code of Australia (BCA) compliance report may be required depending on the nature of the structure.
This checklist provides a comprehensive guide to ensuring that your BIC application addresses all necessary regulatory, safety, and planning requirements for approval.
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