Recent audits undertaken by the VBA identified the need for greater detail and accuracy in plans and drawings.

Should plans and drawings not include the relevant details needed to demonstrate that the building work will comply with the BCA, then the Building Surveyor must not approve the drawings or plans.

For plans to comply with building legislation, designers/architects need to make sure site plans and drawings include key information, such as:

> site levels

> stormwater drainage

> dimensions & setbacks from boundaries

> location of other buildings & structures on the same allotment & on adjoining allotments

> clearly differentiate between existing buildings & proposed building work, in the case of alterations & addition

> include specific details for builders to follow, rather than general notes.

For more information about the standards and documents required for building permit applications, refer to Practice Note 2014-62.