Do I need approval to raise my Brisbane home?

Yes — raising or altering a house needs a building approval, and a pre-1947 character house may need council assessment as well. Ask the builder to confirm the approvals before they quote.

When should I hire a builder instead of a handyman?

A builder is the right starting point for an extension, structural change or a project involving several building trades. Small non-structural repairs may suit a handyman.

Who organises plumbers and electricians on a building job?

That depends on the contract. Ask whether the builder coordinates the licensed trades or expects you to engage them separately.

Builder in Brisbane

Extensions, structural changes and home builds — see the work before you call

Looking for a builder in Brisbane for an extension, a raise-and-build-under or a major renovation? Compare Brisbane builders by photos of their own projects, then check their licence on the QBCC register before you sign.

1 business listed under Builder in Brisbane — based in West End.

West End QLD
Jiante Renovations
Bathroom RenovationFencing & GatesBuilder

Raising a Queenslander and building underneath

Brisbane's classic job is lifting a Queenslander and building in underneath, or adding a new level behind it. Homes built before 1947 may fall under Brisbane City Council's character provisions, so the front of the house can be protected even when the back can change. In Queensland, building work over $3,300 needs a QBCC licensed contractor and a contract, with home warranty insurance on insurable work.

Before you hire a builder in Brisbane

Share plans, photos and the address so the builder can understand the scope.
Check the builder’s licence or registration and the class of work it covers.
Ask who arranges approvals, specialist trades and site supervision.
Get the scope, milestones, payment stages and variations in writing.

In Brisbane, builder licences are issued by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC); you can look a licence number up on its website.

Common questions

Do I need approval to raise my Brisbane home?: Yes — raising or altering a house needs a building approval, and a pre-1947 character house may need council assessment as well. Ask the builder to confirm the approvals before they quote.
When should I hire a builder instead of a handyman?: A builder is the right starting point for an extension, structural change or a project involving several building trades. Small non-structural repairs may suit a handyman.
Who organises plumbers and electricians on a building job?: That depends on the contract. Ask whether the builder coordinates the licensed trades or expects you to engage them separately.

Builder in other cities

Often hired together

Can't find the right tradie?

Tell us what you need. We'll email you when someone who does it lists here.