Restumping Permits in WA

Restumping Permits in WA

Restumping and underpinning change how a house is supported. In Western Australia that is structural building work, and for most full restumps you should plan on a building permit from your local council.

Call 0485 557 649 and we’ll connect you with a local specialist who can confirm what your council needs for your job.

Building permit basics

Under the Building Act 2011 and Building Regulations 2012 (WA), work that replaces or alters footings and structural supports is not treated as simple maintenance. Your specialist (or a private building surveyor) will usually lodge a BA1 (certified) or BA2 (uncertified) application with structural drawings and a Certificate of Design Compliance. Published Perth cost guides allow about $1,250–$4,000 for permit, engineering and soil-report costs on a typical job — that is an allowance, not a fee schedule.

Registered builder and home indemnity insurance

For residential building work over $20,000 in WA:

  • The builder generally needs to be a registered building service provider (check Building and Energy)
  • Home indemnity insurance must be taken out in your name before payment or work starts
  • For fixed-price contracts between $7,500 and $500,000, the deposit is capped at 6.5%

Ask for the insurance certificate and registration details before you sign.

Heritage and overlays

Inner-suburb character areas (for example parts of Fremantle, Subiaco, Vincent and Stirling) may have heritage listings or local planning overlays. Visible edge stumps, ventilation, or demolition of fabric can trigger extra approvals. Tell your specialist early if your home is heritage-listed or in a character zone.

What to ask

  • Will this job need a building permit and engineering?
  • Who lodges the application and pays the fees?
  • Is HII included in the quote for jobs over $20,000?
  • Are there any local planning or heritage steps?

This page is general information, not legal advice. Always confirm with your council and the specialist quoting your house.

Call 0485 557 649 or request a quote.