Owner-builder questions, answered straight
The quick answers to the questions we hear most — each one links through to the full guide when you're ready to go deeper. Written by a construction professional, checked against how builds actually go.
Deciding to owner-build — What it is and whether it is for you
Can you sell an owner-builder home?
Whether you can sell an owner-builder home, and the disclosure, warranty and insurance rules that apply when you sell within your state's window.
What is an owner-builder?
An owner-builder takes legal responsibility for building their own home instead of a licensed builder. What that means, and what it does not.
Permits & courses — The approval questions
How do you get an owner-builder permit?
How to get an owner-builder permit: the course, the documents and the application, state by state — plus the step most people get wrong.
How long does the owner-builder course take?
How long the owner-builder course takes — usually one or two evenings online, self-paced. What that means for your permit timeline.
How do you become an owner-builder?
The steps to become an owner-builder: decide, sort finance, complete the course, get your permit. The order that protects your money.
Insurance — What you must cover, and when
Do owner-builders need insurance?
Whether owner-builders need insurance — what is legally required, what is strongly advised, and the warranty cover that applies when you sell.
How much does owner-builder insurance cost?
What owner-builder insurance costs in Australia and what drives the price — construction works, public liability and warranty cover explained.
Building the house — What you can and cannot do yourself
Can an owner-builder build a duplex or dual occupancy?
Whether owner-builders can build a duplex or dual occupancy, and the catch — resale restrictions and the "building for profit" line that catches people.
Can an owner-builder do their own plumbing and electrical work?
Whether owner-builders can do their own plumbing and electrical work — the licensed-trade rule that applies in every state, and why.
Can an owner-builder do their own waterproofing?
Whether owner-builders can do their own waterproofing — the licensing and certification rules, and why wet areas are the riskiest DIY on site.
Bigger question than a blog post can answer?
If you're weighing the whole decision, the free suitability quiz gives you a straight answer and your specific risk flags in two minutes.