How to Speed Up Council Building Approval | BCC Homes
August 20, 2025
Your roadmap to faster council approvals and fewer headaches
While we aim to avoid council approvals where possible, we understand that sometimes you don't want to compromise on your dream – and we hear you. If your build requires council approval, here are some proven ways to ensure the process is as quick and smooth as possible.
Don't Cut Corners on Documentation
Want a surefire way to delay your approval? Submit incomplete plans or forget a key document. We've watched families wait months because they missed one piece of paperwork.
Here's what you'll typically need for a smooth approval process:
- Site plan, floor plans, and elevations
- Engineering details (structural documentation)
- Sewer and stormwater plans
- Energy efficiency report
- Title search and site survey
- Any specialist reports (bushfire, acoustic, etc.)
We can help you gather all the required documentation. Don't try to navigate this alone – it's not worth the risk of delays and costly mistakes.
Get Pre-Approval Advice – It's a Game Changer
Did you know you can book a pre-lodgement meeting with your local council? Whether you're building in Moreton, Ipswich, Logan, or Gold Coast, this gives you the opportunity to:
- Ask all your burning questions
- Clarify complex planning rules
- Get early feedback on your design
- Build rapport with the assessment team
This can be absolute gold for challenging blocks or if your design pushes boundaries. Think of it as insurance against rejection.
Be Ready to Respond Quickly
Sometimes the council or certifier will come back with an RFI (Request for Information). Don't panic – this is completely normal. But here's where speed makes all the difference.
The faster you respond with clear, complete answers, the faster your Granny Flat approval moves through the system. Treat these requests like priority mail, because that's exactly what they are.
When in Doubt, Call in the Experts
If your project hits a snag, for example zoning challenges or energy efficiency overwhelm, don't try to battle it alone. We've seen too many families get months into their project only to hit a roadblock, pushing back their builds and costing them valuable time and money.
We know building a Granny Flat
in South-East Queensland can be confusing, which is why we created the "21 Steps to Building a Successful Granny Flat". It's packed with real advice from our Queensland builds, including design tips, approval checklists, and insider shortcuts that most builders won't share.
This isn't some generic guide. It's based on real projects we've completed – the kind of practical advice that only comes from actually doing the work, day in and day out.
If you've started collecting quotes for your Granny Flat, you've probably noticed prices can vary by tens of thousands of dollars. So how do you know which quote represents the best value? Here's the thing: not all quotes are built the same way. Two builders can quote the same project, but what they include can be completely different. Understanding these differences is the key to making a confident, informed decision. Let's break down what to look for. 1. Ask for a Detailed Inclusions List Some builders quote only the basic structure, while others include everything from design and approvals to quality finishes and fixtures. The difference can be significant – sometimes $20,000–$40,000 worth of items. Always ask for a detailed inclusions list so you can see exactly what's covered. If something isn't written down, make sure to ask about it. The more detail you have upfront, the easier it is to compare your options fairly. Tip: If something isn’t listed, it’s probably not included. 2. Understand Your Site Conditions Every site is unique. A flat, easily accessible block will have different requirements than one that's sloped or has access challenges. Generic quotes based on "typical conditions" might not reflect your actual situation. At BCC Homes, we never offer a fixed-price quote until Sam has assessed your site. This way, you get an accurate number based on your specific property – giving you confidence in the price from day one. 3. Clarify What's Included in Design and Approvals Some builders charge separately for design work, plan revisions, and approvals, while others include these as part of the process. At BCC Homes, we include design and approvals with 3 plan revisions built in. Understanding what's covered here not only saves you time and potential surprises later but also helps you budget accurately and ensures your design will meet all council, energy efficiency, and bushfire requirements before construction begins. 4. Look at the Builder's Track Record Beyond price, consider the builder's communication style, reviews, and completed projects. A builder who's clear and transparent during the quoting process will give you confidence throughout the entire build. Look for someone who answers your questions thoroughly and helps you understand what to expect. At BCC Homes, we’re happy to walk you through our inclusions and help you compare your quotes line by line, so you know exactly what you’re getting. The Bottom Line The goal isn't necessarily to find the cheapest quote – it's to find the best value. That means working with a builder who's transparent, includes everything you need from the start, and helps you understand every step of the process - no hidden extras, no guesswork. At BCC Homes, we're here to help you understand your quotes and make informed decisions. We're happy to walk you through our inclusions line by line, so you can compare your options with confidence. Ready for your quote? Book in a call and let's see how we can turn your dream into a reality. Link
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