Is a Building Surveyor the Same as a Certifier?

Building surveyor vs Building certifier. Credit: Fluky Fluky/Canva Images
Building surveyor vs Building certifier. Credit: Fluky Fluky/Canva Images
Building surveyor vs Building certifier. Credit: Fluky Fluky/Canva Images
Building surveyor vs Building certifier. Credit: Fluky Fluky/Canva Images

Building surveyors and certifiers both play essential roles in ensuring that building work is compliant with codes and regulations. However, while they often collaborate, they are essentially the same profession, with differences in terminology based on location. 

In Victoria, they are referred to as building surveyors, whereas other states may use the term “certifier.” If you’re in the process of planning a construction project, it’s important to understand this distinction.

H2: What is a building surveyor and what do they do?

A building surveyor, such as Fitout Permits, is a qualified and licensed professional, and their role is to assess applications and issue building permits. They also certify that projects comply with the correct codes, standards, and regulations throughout the duration of a project. They typically work on a project from the very early stages of planning, through to completion.

In the early stages of a new project, a building surveyor will review architectural and engineering plans and make sure they align with local building codes, planning regulations, and safety standards. They will look closely at elements like structural integrity, accessibility, fire safety, energy efficiency, and environmental impact. When the building plans meet the necessary criteria and the client has completed the application, a building surveyor will issue a building permit, and construction can commence.

While the building work is taking place, building surveyors will monitor progress and may conduct inspections at different stages. This is to confirm that the work aligns with the approved plans and maintains high safety standards. If any issues or non-compliances are found during these routine inspections, a building surveyor will explain to the client what must be done to remedy this.

Once the building work has been completed, a building surveyor will need to conduct a final inspection to certify that the structure is safe and meets the associated regulatory requirements. If no issues are found, the building surveyor will issue final approval and a certificate of occupancy, meaning the building can now be used as intended.

How is a building surveyor different from a certifier?

In practice, there is no major difference between a building surveyor and a certifier, as they perform the same duties. The main distinction lies in the terminology used: in Victoria, the term “building surveyor” is standard, while in other states, “certifier” is more commonly used.

Both professionals:

  • Assess and approve building permits
  • Conduct inspections during the construction process
  • Certify that the work meets building regulations and codes
  • Act as an objective third party
  • Ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards

Building certifiers, or surveyors (depending on the state), will document their findings throughout the process. If any non-compliance is identified, they will note the issues that need to be corrected and might recommend specific measures to ensure compliance. This role involves both initial plan assessment and on-site inspections, making them crucial throughout the construction project.


In some states or local government areas, the roles of building surveyors and certifiers are interchangeable, provided the individual meets the licensing requirements. 

It is important to understand the similarities between these roles so that if you are planning to undertake a new project, you know what to expect depending on your location.