Frequently asked questions
What does a building surveyor do?
Building surveyors assess building designs and inspect construction work to confirm compliance with the National Construction Code, Australian Standards and building laws. They authorise construction, conduct inspections throughout construction, authorise occupation and can enforce building standards through notices and orders. Building surveyors protect public safety by ensuring that all buildings are safe, accessible and energy-efficient.
How do I become a building surveyor?
Start by completing a recognised building surveying qualification. While studying, join AIBS as a Student Member to access CPD, networking and career support. After graduation, gain practical experience working under supervision, then apply for AIBS accreditation.
Do I need to register with a state regulator?
Yes. To practice as a building surveyor in Australia, you must be registered with your state or territory building regulator. AIBS Accreditation is recognised by many regulators, streamlining your registration pathway.
What are the registration requirements in my state?
Each Australian state and territory has its own building regulator with specific registration requirements. Generally, Accredited Membership with AIBS will be recognised as evidence you have met the registration criteria regarding education and experience in select Australian jurisdictions. Contact your state regulator directly for specific registration pathways and requirements.
What qualifications do I need to be a building surveyor?
To work as a building surveyor, you need a qualification that meets the requirements set by your state or territory regulator. This includes specific bachelor's degrees, graduate diplomas and VET qualifications from recognised institutions. Your qualification level determines your scope of practice. A degree gives you the broadest scope, while diploma qualifications will limit the class, height and size of buildings you can work on.
Many jurisdictions recognised AIBS accreditation in their registration scheme.
What career pathways are available in building surveying?
Building surveying offers diverse career options. You can work in private consulting firms, local or state government, specialist areas like fire safety or access consulting, policy and regulatory roles, dispute resolution, expert witness work or teaching. You can also progress into leadership positions, business ownership or transition into adjacent professions like fire safety engineering.
What's the difference between statutory and consulting work in building surveying?
Statutory building surveyors hold regulatory authority delegated by government to authorise construction, conduct inspections and enforce building standards. You work independently, and your decisions establish legally enforceable requirements for the projects you work on.
Consulting building surveyors provide expert advice on design compliance, code interpretation, fire safety, access and dispute resolution without regulatory authority. You can work directly with architects, builders and property owners throughout all project phases. You may also be called upon to provide expert witness testimony in legal cases.
Many building surveyors work in both fields throughout their careers.
How much do building surveyors earn?
Many students earn around $60k to $80k while studying and working. Fully qualified building surveyors earn between $150k and $250k depending on their field, experience level and scope of practice. Higher incomes are possible for people running their own businesses.
Can I work as a building surveyor while studying?
Yes. Building surveyors are in huge demand, and many students can get a job paying around $60k to $80k while still studying. This gives you valuable practical experience that counts toward your accreditation requirements while you complete your qualification.