We provide 137b owner builder defects reports in Melbourne with a quick 24 hour turnaround once the onsite inspection has taken place. Our reports comply with your insurance and conveyancing requirements and will enable you to obtain an owner builder warranty insurance policy. To get an obligation free quote or to speak with one of our inspectors, get in touch today.
Specialist focus Ian has made 137B Owner Builder Reports the core of his practice. He knows the requirements inside out and has completed hundreds of these inspections across Melbourne.
Real trade background. Most building inspectors come from an administrative or surveying background. Ian was a carpenter and licensed builder first. He inspects with the eye of someone who has actually built homes — and knows where shortcuts show up.
Fast turnaround. Your report is delivered within 24 hours of inspection. No waiting around while your settlement timeline ticks down.
Plain-English reports. Ian’s reports are written clearly, without jargon. You’ll know exactly what’s been found, what’s required, and what’s minor. So will your conveyancer.
VBA-registered. Ian Stewart is registered with the Victorian Building Authority (Registration No. IN-L41845), which is a legal requirement for the report to be valid.
Competitive pricing. 137B Owner Builder Reports from $390. Call for a specific quote based on your property size and location.
Section 137B reports and why Melbourne owner builders need them
The Building Act 1993 Section 137B refers to building works that have been carried out by an owner builder and the owner then wants to sell the home within 6.6 years of the works being completed.
Under the Act, an owner builder who carries out building works on their property and then decides to sell the property within 6 years and 6 months of the works being completed must obtain a 137B defects inspection report (commonly known as a section 137B report).
An owner builder is defined as someone who “constructs or renovates a domestic building on his or her own land, and who is not in the business of building”. Genuine owner builders do not intend to sell or rent the property immediately and must reside or intend to reside in the dwelling upon completion of the works. The owner builder must also be the owner of the property or the title holder.
Subsection 137B(2) of the Act provides that domestic owner builder obligations arise if a contract to sell is entered into within the prescribed period, which is defined in subsection 137B(7) of the Act as being:
An owner builders defect report must disclose all the building works the owner builder had completed. It could be any building work not limited to but including, carports, decks, garages, internal renovations, extension or entire homes, including materials used. The report must also disclose any defects, and note incomplete works.
The section 137B inspection report gets attached to the section 32 contract of sale to legally disclose any owner builders works to potential buyers.
If the value of the building work is more than $16,000, then home owners warranty building insurance must be obtained by the owner builder and a certificate of currency given to the buyer pre-contract. The insurance must cover structural defects for 6.6 or 7 years and non-structural defects for 2 years.
Only registered building inspectors or surveyors, builders, architects and structural engineers engaged in the building industry.
Solid Start Property Inspections services the whole of Melbourne.
Bathroom during a 137B owner builder report inspection
Kitchen during a 137B report inspection
Feature wall during a 137B owner builder inspection
Slatted feature wall during a 137B report inspection
FAQ
How long does a 137B report take?
A 137B report typically takes less than 1 hour on site and bookings can be organised from 1 to 3 business days in advance, depending on previous bookings and access/availability to the property. If access is available and we have an opening, the 137B report, inspection, and supply of the report can be done within 24 hours of agreement to proceed.
What is the Section 137B Owner Builder Report in Victoria?
The Section 137B Owner Builder Report in Victoria is a mandatory document required for Vendors who have completed any owner builder work as per Section 137b of the Building Act.
Who is required to provide a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
Owner builders in Victoria who have completed building works and wish to sell their property are required to provide a Section 137B Owner Builder Report. This report is necessary to disclose any building works completed by the owner to potential buyers.
What is the purpose of a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
The purpose of a Section 137B Owner Builder Report is to ensure that any building works carried out by an owner builder comply with building regulations and standards. It provides transparency to potential buyers and discloses any defects or incomplete works noted.
How much does a 137B report cost?
The cost of a 137B report can vary based on the specifics of the property and the scope of the inspection. Our fee for a 137B report starts at $390 inc GST. It’s best to contact Solid Start Property Inspections directly for an accurate quote.
What information is included in a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
A Section 137B Owner Builder Report includes details of the building works completed, materials used, whether there are second-hand materials used, and notes any defects and/or incomplete works.
What happens if I don’t obtain a section 137B owner builder report?
Failing to obtain a Section 137B Owner Builder Report and disclosing all owner builder works completed may result in legal and financial consequences. It may affect the sale of the property, as not disclosing owner builder works completed may make the vendor (seller) in breach of contract and then may void the contract and allow the purchaser to pull out of the sale. Always ensure you have the necessary documentation to comply with regulations, including a copy of any building permits issued and any occupancy permits or certificates of final inspection issued (as applicable). These must be attached to the 137B report.
When should I submit a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
The Section 137B Owner Builder Report should be submitted when an owner builder decides to sell their property. It is a crucial part of the documentation required for the sale process to ensure compliance and transparency.
How does a Section 137B Owner Builder Report benefit future owners or tenants?
The Section 137B Owner Builder Report benefits future owners by declaring the owner builder works completed by the vendor, prior to sale and, if necessary, is used to purchase Owner builder warranty insurance, if required.
How is the value of the building work determined for the Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
The value of the building work is determined based on the cost of materials, labour, and any other expenses related to the building works carried out by the owner builder.
What is the legal requirement for a Section 137B Owner Builder Report in Victoria?
It is an offence for an owner-builder to sell building without reporting or insurance ( if required)
Building Act 1993 -SECT 137B
Are there exceptions to the requirement for a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
Exceptions to the requirement for a Section 137B Owner Builder Report may exist in specific cases, such as minor works that do not significantly alter the property or when the building works are exempt under the Building Act 1993. It is advisable to consult with the VBA or a professional to determine if an exemption applies.
Can I prepare the Section 137B Owner Builder Report myself?
No, the Section 137B Owner Builder Report must be prepared by a VBA registered building inspector or above. This ensures the report is legal.
How can I ensure my building work complies with the regulations for a Section 137B Owner Builder Report?
To ensure your building work complies with the regulations for a Section 137B Owner Builder Report, engage a qualified professional for the construction process, adhere to the building codes and standards, and obtain the necessary permits and inspections. Regularly consulting with a registered building practitioner can help maintain compliance throughout the building process.
Solid Start Property Inspections
Email: ian@sspi.com.au
Phone: 0417 383 332
Fax: 03 9870 5078
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