Retrospective Certification Made Simple, Safe & Fully Compliant

What Is Retrospective Certification?

Retrospective Certification is the process of approving structures that were built, modified, or converted without prior building approval.
Our engineers assess the current condition of your structure, identify any compliance gaps, and issue the reports and forms required to meet council and Building Code of Australia (BCA) standards.

Why You May Need Retrospective Approval

  • Unapproved extensions, decks, patios, sheds or carports

  • Conversions such as Class 10 to Class 1 dwelling upgrades

  • Renovations done without council sign-off

  • Missing engineering documentation for a sale or insurance claim

Our Retrospective Certification Services

We provide full engineering support to help you achieve compliance quickly and confidently.

Our Service Includes

  • Structural inspections & engineering assessments

  • Compliance reports for council lodgement

  • Identification of required modifications (if any)

  • Preparation of Form 15 (Design Compliance Certificate)

  • Issuing of Form 12 (Inspection Certificate) after adjustments or verification

  • Direct coordination with certifiers and council certification requirements

Our goal is to ensure your building meets all safety, durability, and structural performance standards.

What We Assess During Certification

Structural Integrity

We check all critical load-bearing elements including footings, framing, beams, columns, roof structures, and bracing systems.

Safety & Compliance

We ensure the structure satisfies requirements for wind loads, fire safety, waterproofing, and general BCA performance obligations.

Documentation

We prepare certified engineering documents required by councils, certifiers, and regulatory bodies.

Essential Certificates We Provide

Form 15 — Design Compliance Certificate

Issued before any corrective work or as part of approval documentation.
Confirms that the design work or structural solution complies with relevant Australian Standards.

Form 12 — Inspection Certificate

Issued after inspection to confirm the structure or completed rectification work is compliant and safe for occupancy.

Council Certification Support

We work directly with certifiers and local councils to ensure your application is seamless, fast, and stress-free.

Fast, Reliable Retrospective Certification for All Structures

We certify a wide range of residential, commercial, and industrial structures, including:

  • Renovated rooms and extensions

  • Carports, garages, and sheds

  • Patios, decks, pergolas

  • Dwelling conversions

  • Concrete and steel structures

  • Storm-damaged or altered buildings

What We Assess During Certification

Qualified, Registered Structural Engineers

We deliver engineering reports and certificates accepted across all QLD councils.

Fast Turnaround

Most assessments and documents are delivered within tight deadlines to support urgent approval needs.

Clear, Actionable Recommendations

We explain what needs to be fixed — and what doesn’t — so you avoid unnecessary costs.

Seamless Council Coordination

We ensure your Retrospective Certification documentation meets all council certification requirements the first time.

Get Your Retrospective Certification Started Today

Whether you’re preparing for a property sale, securing insurance, or resolving council compliance issues, our engineers make the process simple and efficient.

Contact us today to book your assessment and get fast, accurate Retrospective Certification for your structure.

Retrospective Certification & Building Performance:
What You Need to Know

This is where we explore the complexities of bringing existing buildings into compliance with current codes and performance standards. Whether you’re dealing with unapproved structures, missing documentation, or performance shortfalls, our expert articles provide practical guidance on navigating retrospective approvals and implementing effective performance strategies. Perfect for developers, property owners, and industry professionals seeking clarity and compliance in challenging scenarios.

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