Builders Licence vs Trade Contractors Licence

QBCC License for Builders and Trade Contractors

Looking to hire a tradesperson for your renovation or construction project? Always look for contractors registered with the QBCC. It ensures your project is covered by a homeowner warranty and you can get legal help for any issue.

In this article, we discuss the license class, types of licenses, and builders v/s trade contractors licenses.

QBCC License for Builders and Trade Contractors

In Queensland, if you are working as a builder, you need a license from the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). The QBCC is a statutory authority and regulates the building and construction sector.

License Classes

1. Builders-Open, Low Rise and Medium Rise
2. Builders Restricted
3. Building Design
4. Completed Residential Building Inspection
5. Mechanical Services
6. Trade Contractors
   

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When you need a license? QBCC

Type of Licenses

1. Contractor
2. Site Supervisor
3. Occupation
4. Nominee Supervisor
   

Builders Licence vs Trade Contractors Licence

If you are a builder, trade contractor or sub-trade contractor, you need to apply for a QBCC license. The license classes are different for both. Choose the license class and type depending on your occupation and begin the application process.

Builders License

License Class: Builders license is required if you are building low rise, medium-rise and open buildings.The type of license you need depends on the work you perform.

Builders Scope of Work

Builders - Low Rise

Builders - Medium Rise

Builders - Open

Trade Contractor License

License Class: If you are involved in roles like cabinet making, concreting, carpentry, drainage, plumbing, gas fitting, stone masonry, roof tiling, etc.

When is QBCC license needed?

In Queensland, you need a QBCC license to carry out:

• Building work valued over $3300
• Building work valued over $1100 if it involved Hydraulic Services Design
• Supervising the building work to ensure the work is of a high standard and complies with the building plans and specifications
• If you are supervising work related to plumbing and drainage, gas fitting, pest control and fire protection 
• Building work of any value if it involves:

1. Drainage and Plumbing
2. Gas Fitting
3. Fire Protection
4. Low rise, medium-rise and open building design
5. Chemical and Physical Termite Management
6. Site classification
7. Residential building inspection
   

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When is a license required? QBCC

Note: If you have a builders license and you are moving to Queensland, you can get QBCC license through the mutual recognition process.

When is QBCC License NOT required?

• Owner of the land and the work is valued under $11000
• Employees of licensed contractors
• An individual in partnership with licensed contractors
• A sub-trade contractor working under a licensed contractor
• Trusts cannot apply for a license
• If you are working in the following fields:

1. Asbestos removal
2. Demolition
3. Insulation Installer
4. Handyman ( the work shouldn’t be valued over $3300, electrical or plumbing and shouldn’t require an occupational license
5. Architect engaged for building design work or building inspections
6. Electrician
   

Search for a QBCC License

If you are considering hiring a contractor, always make sure they are licensed with the QBCC. This ensures your home/business is protected and you can claim warranty and legal support for any defective work. You can search for the license of the company here:

Online License Search

Trusted and Professional Builders

Looking for a professional builder for your Gold Coast, Tweed or South Brisbane project? We are licensed with the QBCC as trade contractors and builders. Our compliance with regulations ensures you are fully protected in case of any defective work. You get peace of mind knowing your project is in safe hands and

Contact us today on 07 5594 1768 for your renovation or custom build project today.