Data sourced from public government registers. Always verify directly with Access Canberra before making hiring decisions. Read full disclaimer.

Licensed Builders in Canberra, ACT

8986 Verified Browse all verified licensed builders serving Canberra and surrounding suburbs.
Data last updated: 17 February 2026 from Access Canberra register

Builder Directory — Canberra, ACT

Licence2024360
ClassClass A
Licence2009538
ClassClass C
Licence2019305
ClassClass C
Licence20251508
ClassClass B
Licence2022817
ClassClass A
Licence2015931
ClassClass B
Licence19894869
ClassClass A
Licence20181082
ClassClass C
Licence2012975
ClassClass B
Licence2017920
ClassClass C
Licence2018101
ClassClass C
Licence20221085
ClassClass A
Licence2018706
ClassClass C
Licence2019451
ClassClass B
Licence2015306
ClassClass D
Licence2007200
ClassClass A
Licence2023928
ClassClass C
Licence2015585
ClassClass A
Licence2021836
ClassClass A
Licence2015611
ClassClass A
Licence2020204
ClassClass C
Licence2005879
ClassClass C
Licence2018637
ClassClass A
Licence2013371
ClassClass B
Licence20121330
ClassClass A
Licence200413694
ClassClass C
Licence2019735
ClassClass A
Licence20191097
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2014920
ClassClass C
Licence2019604
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2017774
ClassClass C
Licence2025149
ClassClass A
Licence19926108
ClassClass C
Licence2022767
ClassOwner Builder
Licence20101049
ClassClass C
Licence2013688
ClassClass C
Licence2013687
ClassClass A
Licence2016269
ClassClass C
Licence2014773
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2007831
ClassUnrestricted
Licence20121551
ClassClass A
Licence2017885
ClassClass C
Licence2019479
ClassClass B
Licence20181050
ClassClass A
Licence20251569
ClassClass B
Licence2013376
ClassOwner Builder
Licence20191346
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2008543
ClassClass C
Licence2012939
ClassClass B
Licence20251069
ClassClass B
Licence2024442
ClassClass C
Licence200427033
ClassClass B
Licence2007583
ClassUnrestricted
Licence2018849
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2012100
ClassClass A
Licence20251198
ClassOwner Builder
Licence20111314
ClassClass C
Licence2024915
ClassClass A
Licence20181328
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2019431
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2010978
ClassClass D
Licence2012579
ClassClass B
Licence2014923
ClassClass C
Licence2020825
ClassClass A
Licence2019973
ClassClass A
Licence2016558
ClassClass A
Licence2020834
ClassClass B
Licence200012081
ClassClass B
Licence2025636
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2007971
ClassClass C
Licence2023237
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2014633
ClassClass B
Licence2021372
ClassClass C
Licence20241266
ClassClass A
Licence20211316
ClassClass C
Licence2025665
ClassClass A
Licence2011472
ClassClass B
Licence2018160
ClassClass C
Licence2017499
ClassClass C
Licence20161002
ClassClass C
Licence20201584
ClassClass D
Licence2019350
ClassClass A
Licence2005907
ClassClass C
Licence20201520
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2014441
ClassClass B
Licence2008711
ClassWater Supply Plumber
Licence2022664
ClassClass A
Licence2021950
ClassClass D
Licence20161153
ClassOwner Builder
Licence2013959
ClassClass A
Licence2023436
ClassClass B - Energy Efficiency
Licence20201100
ClassClass A
Licence2023439
ClassClass A
Licence2016911
ClassClass C
Licence2015547
ClassClass D
Licence2014369
ClassClass B
Licence2008557
ClassClass B
Licence2012567
ClassClass C
Licence2021296
ClassClass B
Licence20231347
ClassOwner Builder

Hiring a Builder in Canberra

Before hiring any builder in Canberra, use this checklist to protect yourself and ensure you're working with a properly licensed and insured professional.

  1. Verify their Home Warranty Insurance is current — For residential building work above the state threshold (e.g. $20,000 in NSW, $16,000 in VIC), the builder must hold Home Warranty Insurance (also called Home Building Compensation in NSW). Ask for the certificate before signing — it protects you if the builder dies, disappears, or becomes insolvent before defects are rectified.
  2. Ask to see their QBCC or equivalent financial standing — In Queensland and several other states, builders must meet minimum net tangible asset requirements. A builder who has recently had financial conditions placed on their licence may be at risk of insolvency. Check the public register for any conditions, sanctions, or disciplinary actions.
  3. Request a detailed scope of works, not just a lump-sum price — A one-line quote of "$350,000 for your renovation" tells you nothing. Insist on a fully itemised scope of works that lists each trade, materials, allowances, PC (prime cost) items, and provisional sums so you can compare quotes fairly and avoid surprise variations.
  4. Confirm how they handle variations and cost overruns — Variations are the number-one source of building disputes in Australia. Ask how changes are documented and priced, whether there is a margin applied to variations, and ensure the contract requires written approval before any variation work commences.
  5. Check their licence class matches the scale of your project — Builder licences are tiered by project scale — for example, QBCC offers Low Rise (up to 2 storeys), Medium Rise (up to 3 storeys), and Open (unrestricted). A builder licensed only for Low Rise cannot legally construct a three-storey townhouse. Verify the licence class on the relevant state register.
Pro Tip

Get at least three quotes and compare not just price, but response time, warranty on workmanship, and whether the quote includes parts.

Red Flags to Watch For
  • No Home Warranty Insurance certificate for work over the threshold — Builders are legally required to provide Home Warranty Insurance before starting residential work above the state threshold. If a builder says insurance "isn't needed" or asks you to split the contract to stay under the threshold, walk away — this is a serious red flag and may indicate they cannot obtain insurance.
  • Demands large upfront deposits beyond the legal limit — Most states cap the deposit a builder can request — for example, 5% in Victoria and 10% in NSW for contracts over $20,000. A builder requesting 30–50% upfront may have cash flow problems and could be using your deposit to fund other projects.
  • Reluctant to put the scope of works in writing — For residential building work above the relevant threshold, a written contract is a legal requirement in every state. A builder who resists putting the full scope, timeline, and payment schedule in writing is exposing you to variations, disputes, and limited legal recourse.
  • Multiple current disciplinary actions on the public register — Check the state licensing register (e.g. QBCC, NSW Fair Trading, VBA) for any directions to rectify, licence conditions, or complaint history. One resolved complaint is normal; multiple open actions suggest systemic quality or conduct issues.

Builder Licensing Requirements in Australian Capital Territory

Licence Required

Licensing is managed by ACT Construction Occupations Registrar.

Licence Types

Builder Licence — Class A

All building work including multi-storey construction

Builder Licence — Class B

Building work up to 2 storeys

Builder Licence — Class C

Limited building work (e.g. alterations and additions)

Key Requirements

  • Diploma of Building and Construction (CPC50220) or equivalent
  • Minimum 3 years supervisory experience
  • Fidelity fund certificate for residential building work

Penalties for unlicensed work

Unlicensed building work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can also issue demerit points, rectification orders, and prohibition notices.

Typical Builder Costs in ACT

Hourly Rate

$75 – $130

Callout Fee

$85 – $160

Common Jobs

JobCost Range
Deck construction (20-30sqm)$5350 – $16050
Bathroom renovation$16050 – $37450
Kitchen renovation$21400 – $53500

Related Directories

Builders in Nearby Suburbs

Other Trades in Canberra

Broader Areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a builder and a building contractor?

In most states, the terms are interchangeable for licensing purposes. A "builder" typically refers to someone who constructs or renovates buildings, while a "building contractor" holds the licence that allows them to contract for building work and engage subcontractors. Some states distinguish between a general contractor (whole-of-build) and a specialist or trade contractor (single trade like carpentry or tiling).

What does Home Warranty Insurance actually cover?

Home Warranty Insurance (known as Home Building Compensation in NSW) covers homeowners if the builder cannot complete the work or fix defects due to death, disappearance, or insolvency. It typically covers structural defects for 6 years and non-structural defects for 2 years after completion. It does not cover disputes about quality while the builder is still trading — that is handled through the building tribunal or commission.

How much does it cost to build a house per square metre in Australia?

As a rough guide, expect $1,800–$2,500 per square metre for a standard project home, $2,500–$3,500 for a custom design, and $3,500 or more for architecturally designed or high-specification builds. Costs vary significantly by state, site conditions, finishes, and market demand. Always get at least three detailed quotes for your specific plans and site.

Do I need council approval before my builder starts work?

For most building work beyond minor cosmetic changes, yes. You or your builder must obtain a building permit (or construction certificate in NSW) from council or a private certifier before work begins. Some minor works like garden sheds under a certain size may be exempt. Your builder should confirm permit requirements during the quoting stage.

What is a defects liability period?

The defects liability period is a window — usually 13 to 26 weeks after practical completion — during which the builder must return to fix any defects identified during a final inspection. It is separate from Home Warranty Insurance cover. Document all defects in writing during this period and issue a formal defect notice to the builder.

Can I act as an owner-builder instead of hiring a licensed builder?

Most states allow homeowners to act as their own builder by obtaining an Owner Builder Permit, but thresholds apply — for example, work over $10,000 in NSW or $11,000 in QLD. As an owner-builder you take on all legal responsibility for compliance, subcontractor management, and workplace safety. You must also disclose the owner-builder work when selling the property within 6 years in most states.

How do I verify a builder's licence in ACT?

You can verify any builder's licence using TradieVerify's free search tool or directly through the Access Canberra register. Enter the builder's name or licence number to confirm their licence status, class, and any disciplinary history.

How many licensed builders are in Canberra?

There are currently 8986 licensed builders registered in Canberra, ACT. This data is sourced directly from the Access Canberra register and updated regularly.