The Queensland Government has outlined a new building code which it says will save homeowners up to $2,000 and will streamline the development application process for building over, or near, sewers, water mains and stormwater drains on domestic home sites.

State Housing and Public Workers Minister, Tim Mander, said that the proposed code will reduce red tape for homeowners and will simplify the existing approval process.

The current process is confusing, illogical and ad hoc,” Mr Mander said.

“The Building Act currently doesn’t allow a private building certifier to approve building work over, or adjacent to, a sewer or water main without the consent of the relevant service provider under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act.

“Having to obtain consent from a service provider can also trigger a requirement to lodge a planning development application with the local council.

“To make things more confusing, the Water Supply Act, doesn’t set out any criteria that the applicant must address to obtain consent, nor does it detail the process to be followed when making an application. 

“Fees associated with negotiating these unduly complicated processes, can run into the thousands of dollars, all for the privilege of building on your own land.”

Mr Mander said the revised code, which is expected to come into effect later this year, would allow applications for building work over or near sewers, water mains or stormwater drains to be assessed under the Building Act.