If you’re planning to become a builder in Victoria or want to hire one for your project, understanding the different types of builder licences is essential. The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) regulates building practitioners across the state, and each licence type reflects a specific scope of work. Whether you’re working on a residential renovation or overseeing a major commercial development, there’s a licence tailored to the task. In this blog, we break down the main categories: domestic, commercial, and specialised builder licences, and what each one enables you to do.
Domestic Builder Licence (DBL)
The Domestic Builder Licence is required for any building work related to homes or residential properties where the cost exceeds $10,000. Within this category, there are two key types:
- Domestic Builder – Unlimited (DB-U): This licence allows a builder to manage or carry out all components of domestic building work. It’s ideal for those who want full control over residential projects from start to finish.
- Domestic Builder – Limited (DB-L): This licence restricts the holder to certain types of work, such as carpentry, bricklaying, waterproofing, or bathroom renovations. It’s designed for tradespeople or specialists focusing on one area of construction.
Domestic builders must demonstrate relevant qualifications, industry experience, and a solid understanding of the Building Code of Australia.
Commercial Builder Licence (CBL)
A Commercial Builder Licence is necessary for anyone undertaking construction work on non-residential buildings — think office blocks, warehouses, shopping centres, and schools. Like domestic builder licences, commercial licences are divided into:
- Commercial Builder – Unlimited (CB-U): This permits builders to manage and carry out all types of commercial construction work.
- Commercial Builder – Limited (CB-L): This version restricts the builder to particular elements of commercial construction — such as structural steel erection or internal fit-outs.
Pursuing a career in commercial construction? It’s crucial to gain the right training. If you’re considering advancing your career, there are reputable commercial builders licence courses available to help you meet the VBA’s requirements and prepare for your assessment.
Specialist or Restricted Builder Licences
In some cases, a builder may not require a full domestic or commercial licence but may still need registration for specific building work. These include areas like:
- Structural landscaping
- Swimming pool installation
- Waterproofing
- Sheet plastering
These specialist licences ensure that even niche construction tasks are performed by qualified and accountable professionals.
Owner-Builder Permits
For homeowners looking to manage their own renovation or building project, an Owner-Builder Permit might be appropriate. However, these are only issued under certain conditions and typically limited to one project every five years. The owner must reside (or intend to reside) in the property and is responsible for ensuring all work complies with building regulations.
Why the Right Licence Matters
Choosing a builder with the correct licence isn’t just about ticking boxes — it’s about ensuring the quality, safety, and legal compliance of your project. For aspiring builders, understanding the scope and limitations of each licence is the first step toward building a successful career in the industry. Whether you’re interested in small-scale home improvements or large-scale developments, the Victorian building licence system is designed to ensure every job is handled by someone with the right expertise.
