What is a Building Information Certificate (BIC) Application?

If you've recently bought a property or completed unapproved building work, you might be wondering how to make everything compliant with your local council.

That’s where a Building Information Certificate (BIC) comes in.

It’s a common part of NSW planning that many homeowners and developers don’t fully understand, until they need one.

At Town Planning Sydney, we help clients across NSW get council approval for all types of residential and commercial development.

From navigating complex development applications to preparing supporting documentation, our team is here to simplify the process.

Here’s what you need to know about BICs and how they fit into the broader town planning framework.

1. What is a Building Information Certificate?

A Building Information Certificate is a legal document issued by your local council under Section 6.8 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

It confirms that the council will not order demolition, alteration or rectification of a building (or part of a building) for a period of seven years.In practical terms, it provides assurance that the building is safe, complies with minimum standards and can stay as is.

It’s often required when selling a property that has unauthorised works or missing DA approval.

Buyers and conveyancers may request it to avoid future legal or financial issues.

2. When Do You Need a BIC?

If you’ve built something on your property without a valid development application or complying development approval, you’ll likely need a BIC.

This applies to things like home extensions, garages, decks or internal alterations.

Let’s say you purchased a home in the Inner West with a second-storey addition that was never approved.

Before selling, your solicitor might advise you to lodge a BIC application to ensure council won’t issue a demolition order.

You may also need a BIC if you're a property developer dealing with older buildings or unapproved changes by a previous owner.

A planning consultant can provide planning advice on whether a BIC or a DA is more appropriate in your case.

3. Who Can Apply for a BIC in NSW?

A BIC can be lodged by:– The property owner, someone with the owner’s consent, a buyer under contract, the buyer’s solicitor or agent.

At Town Planning Sydney, we often act on behalf of property owners or their legal representatives to prepare and submit complete BIC packages.

We ensure all necessary documentation, including architectural plans and building certificates, are included to meet NSW planning requirements.

4. What Is the Process for Getting a BIC?

The first step is gathering evidence that the building is structurally sound and not dangerous.

This usually involves engaging a private certifier or building inspector.

You’ll also need accurate plans, sometimes requiring updated drafting from our in-house team.

Once the application is lodged, council may inspect the site.

They’ll review your documents and assess whether the structure poses any risk or breaches significant planning controls.

Depending on the council’s response, additional planning advice or rectification works might be recommended.With the right team, including experienced planning consultants, many of these issues can be resolved efficiently.

5. What Happens After a BIC is Issued?

Once granted, the certificate protects the building from enforcement action for seven years.

This gives peace of mind to current owners, buyers and lenders.It can also help unlock new development opportunities by clearing up past compliance issues.

At Town Planning Sydney, we’ve helped clients across Sydney secure council approval through both BICs and retrospective DA approvals, depending on what’s best for the site.

Each property is unique, and that’s why tailored town planning solutions matter.

Need to know if your property qualifies for a BIC?

Looking for practical planning advice or unsure whether to lodge a development application instead?

Our team of trusted planning consultants can assess your site and guide you through every step of the NSW planning process.