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WA home owners warned about DIY ‘no permit’ outbuildings
Western Australians have been warned to check permit rules before installing prefabricated pods, tiny homes, and other outbuildings, as owners increasingly seek secondary dwellings for extra income.
The Western Australian government has urged home owners in the state to conduct thorough research before installing prefabricated outbuildings on their properties, amid a rise in possibly misleading claims.
It comes amid an increase in interest in granny flats, with owners seeking to cash in on extra income, add bedrooms, and unlock more value from their properties.
According to WA’s Consumer Protection and Building and Energy division, many companies were advertising their products as do-it-yourself (DIY) projects that can be assembled quickly, with “no permit required”.
It said such claims can be false or misleading, in breach of Australian Consumer Law, as the projects may actually be subject to council approvals and other rules to ensure they were safe and compliant.
The watchdog said home owners could end up installing unsafe structures or breaching building compliance or planning laws if they relied on false advertising.
“Consumers should contact their local government for advice on any approvals that may be required,” it said.
In many cases, if the structures are used as a building, or part of a building, they will require a building permit, with no specific exemptions for prefabricated buildings.
“Local councils may take enforcement action if these structures are erected without all the necessary approvals,” Consumer Protection said.
Further, if a building permit is required and the structure is a habitable building valued at more than $20,000, or a non-habitable structure valued at more than $50,000, it must be installed by a registered builder or approved owner-builder.
The builder named on the permit is responsible for ensuring the building is compliant with applicable building standards upon completion.
Other local council approvals, such as under planning laws, may also be needed.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said consumers could be misled into believing they can purchase and build the structures themselves.
“We’re concerned that some home owners may be led to believe these structures don’t require permits or approvals, which may not be the case,” she said.
“That misinformation can create avoidable headaches for households and their councils.”
According to Blake, Western Australians deserved clear and truthful information so they can make informed decisions that protect their homes, safety and their finances.
“Under the Australian Consumer Law, it is an offence for a trader to make false or misleading representations about the goods they supply.”
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