How much does a building surveyor cost in Victoria?
If you’re on the cusp of starting a new building project in Victoria, you will need to work with a building surveyor at some point. A building surveyor will make sure that your project, whether it involves a new build, renovation, or demolition project, complies with the relevant building codes and regulations. But how much do the services of a building surveyor actually cost in Victoria?
Well, there’s no precise answer for this question, because the associated costs can vary greatly, depending on a range of different factors and the services your project requires. When you’re planning a project, it’s important to understand the factors that will influence the cost of a surveyor, so you can budget accordingly.
Factors that influence the cost of a building surveyor’s services
One of the biggest factors affecting the cost of a building surveyor is the type of project that you're in the process of planning, or working on. For smaller projects like renovations and extensions, the cost of a building surveyor is generally lower. Costs may start at around $700 to $1,500. For bigger projects, like an entire new home build or a commercial development, costs might range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
The actual services that you require will also determine how much you can expect to pay. Victorian building surveyors offer a range of services, such as pre-purchase inspections, building permit applications, and construction inspections throughout the duration of a project. If you're only hiring a surveyor for a one-off inspection or a specific permit application, the cost may be lower than if they are providing further services.
The complexity of your project will also have an impact on the overall cost of your building surveyor. For example, projects that involve more detailed design elements, multi-story buildings, or structures with heritage features might need additional time and attention from the surveyor, leading to higher overall costs. Complex projects might also require more frequent inspections during the project, causing the overall cost to increase.
Project specifics affect services cost.
It’s also important to consider experience and reputation. Private building surveyors, such as Fitout Permits, who have a wealth of experience are worth their weight in gold. Do keep in mind though that a more experienced building surveyor with a proven track record can help you avoid costly mistakes down the line by ensuring everything is compliant and built to code from the start.
Tips on finding a great building surveyor
Finding a building surveyor that provides a combination of fair pricing and quality work will be essential to the success of your project. There are a few things to look out for when finding the right building surveyor in Victoria.
The best place to start, if you don’t already have someone in mind, is by researching potential surveyors online. Look for professionals who are registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), as they must meet specific requirements and standards to practise in the state, by law. Take a close look at reviews and testimonials from past clients to get a better idea of their past performance, cost, and reliability.
It's always a good idea to get a few quotes from surveyors and compare these, before making a choice. This is the best way to see the expected average cost and factor that into your overall budget. You’ll be able to see which surveyor is offering cheaper services, and you can compare pricing with other factors, like reviews and specialities. Don’t forget to ask for a detailed breakdown of their quote!
Engaging a building surveyor is required by the state of Victoria.
It’s essential to remember that hiring a building surveyor is not optional. To ensure that your project complies with legal requirements, you will need a building surveyor to provide a building permit, conduct inspections, and handle other responsibilities. The right surveyor will ensure that your project is safe, compliant, and completed efficiently.
