Thinking about owner-building? Start here.
An owner-builder constructs or renovates a home on their own land without being a registered builder. It offers greater control and potential cost savings – but also carries important responsibilities.
This introductory course covers the residential construction process, the path to becoming an owner-builder and the duties involved, with practical insight into the pros, cons and challenges of managing your own build.
You will also receive a Certificate of Completion that satisfies one of the LGIRS owner-builder approval application requirements.
Please read the Important Information below before booking.
Important Information
- Class 10a buildings: Since 1 July 2026, owner-builder approval is no longer required for Class 10a buildings (garages, carports and sheds) valued under $50,000. If you are unsure of your project’s classification, contact your local council or the LGIRS Owner-Builder team at ownerbuilders@lgirs.wa.gov.au or on 1300 489 099.
- Check your eligibility: Before booking, we recommend reviewing the WA.gov.au Owner-Builder Approval page for eligibility criteria.
- Certificates: Certificates of Completion are issued per project, not per person. The enrolment option for ‘2 people’ is designed for people working on the same project – the certificate will feature both names. If two people are attending but completing separate projects, each will need their own certificate. In this case, please complete two ‘1 person’ enrolments, one for each proposed owner-builder project.
Your Presenters
Each session is presented by one of two experienced industry professionals.
David Uhe is a registered builder and practising architect with more than 30 years’ experience. He brings a practical, local perspective to every stage of the building and renovation process.
Michael Norriss is a Perth build facilitator who has spent more than 30 years working in the building and construction industry. Qualified in project management and sustainability, Michael is passionate about ecologically sustainable design and minimising construction waste.
Who is this course for?
The Owner-Builder Course is ideal for anyone planning to project manage their own building project in Western Australia – whether it is a new home, an extension or a major renovation. It is also valuable for anyone still deciding whether owner-building is the right path for their project.
No prior building experience is needed.
Do I need to complete a course to become an owner-builder?
Owner-builder approval may be required where a building permit is needed and the estimated value of the building work exceeds $20,000 (except Class 10a buildings valued under $50,000 – see Important Information above).
To gain approval in Western Australia, you must provide evidence of your knowledge of the duties and responsibilities of an owner-builder. Completing an owner-builder course relevant to Western Australian legislation is a common way to provide this evidence.
Does a WA owner-builder course need to be run by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)?
No. In Western Australia, there is no requirement for an owner-builder course to be delivered by an RTO. Requirements differ between states, so make sure any course you choose covers Western Australian legislation.
For full details, visit the WA.gov.au Owner-Builder Approval page.
Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. At the end of the course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion to include with your owner-builder approval application.
Certificates are issued per project, not per person – see Important Information above for how this works when there is more than one building project involved.
Why choose this Owner-Builder Course?
Learning in person means you can ask questions and get answers from an experienced industry professional standing right in front of you. This is also an opportunity to meet other future owner-builders – people who are at the same stage as you and facing the same decisions.
Our Owner-Builder Course has been running for more than 20 years. The content is regularly reviewed and is based on current Western Australian legislation and building regulations. It is also full of practical advice and real-world insights from local owner-builders who have completed our course and gone on to owner-build successfully.
Deciding to take on an owner-builder project is a significant commitment. Our course is designed as a comprehensive guide to the entire process – including what to look out for and where to go for professional assistance.
We strongly believe that being well prepared is one of the keys to successful owner-building.
Where is the course held?
Our courses and masterclasses are held in the Function Room at Home Base Design & Build Centre, 55 Salvado Road, Subiaco. Enter the car park from Salvado Road or Harborne Street, or walk from Subiaco train station.
What is included in the course cost?
As well as a full-day, expert-led session, your course cost includes:
- Additional information guide: your in-class resource – and a handy reference tool
- Presentation PDF: emailed to you
- Digital resources guide: emailed to you
- Certificate of Completion
- Notebook and pen
- Tea and coffee
- Free parking
What if I have booked but can no longer attend?
We understand plans can change. If you need to move your course date or cancel, please contact us as early as possible. Our cancellation and refund policy is as follows:
- More than 2 business days before your course starts: a refund less a 5% administration fee, or a transfer to the next available date.
- Within 2 business days of your course starting: a 50% refund, or a transfer to the next available date.
- Non-attendance without prior contact: no refund or transfer is available.
