ACT Guide

Documents you’ll likely need (ACT)

Owner-building runs smoother when your documents are organised early. Think in two buckets: approval documents (to get permission to build) and evidence documents (to prove what happened during the build).

View checklist How to use this

General information only (not legal advice). Your certifier and ACT authority may require additional items depending on scope.

Quick links
Choosing a certifier Construction documents checklist Record-keeping template

How to use this page

  • Start now: create a “Project Admin” folder (digital) and a simple physical folder.
  • Collect once: save every approval email, PDF, invoice and certificate as you receive it.
  • Name files consistently: e.g. 2026-01-21_Slab-Engineer-Certificate.pdf
  • Keep evidence: photos at each stage + dated notes prevent disputes later.

Process documents checklist (ACT)

Before approvals
  • Project scope summary (what you’re building)
  • Site details (address, block/section if relevant)
  • Initial concept sketches / notes
  • Budget estimate & timeline (rough is fine)
Planning (if applicable)
  • Written confirmation of planning pathway
  • Any planning approval decision/conditions
  • Updated plans reflecting conditions
  • Supporting reports (heritage / trees / site constraints if required)
Building approval pack
  • Final plans + specifications
  • Engineering (as required)
  • Energy efficiency evidence (as required)
  • Certifier appointment details
  • Approved building documentation / approval outcome
During construction
  • Inspection records (dates + outcomes)
  • Trade invoices + contracts
  • Compliance certificates from trades
  • Variation log (what changed, why, cost/time impact)
  • Photos at each stage (before covering work)
At completion
  • Final inspection outcome
  • As-built documentation (if provided)
  • Final certificates / sign-off documentation
  • Occupancy / lawful use outcomes (project-dependent)
Keep long-term
  • All approvals, certificates and warranties
  • Product manuals & compliance plates
  • Records of variations and evidence photos
  • Insurance docs (construction phase + any later cover)
Tip
If you’re unsure what counts as “required evidence”, ask your certifier: “What documents do you want before each inspection stage, and what do you need at final sign-off?”

Next recommended reads

Construction documents checklist Inspection stages Record-keeping template
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