The usual value threshold
In Queensland, individuals and companies generally need the relevant QBCC licence to contract for building work valued over $3,300. Hydraulic services design has a lower threshold of over $1,100. The licence must cover both the work and the role you will perform. More than one class may be needed. See QBCC’s licence-needed guidance.
Do not use the total on a quote as the only test. Some work needs a licence at any value, and exemptions depend on the work and arrangement.
Work that needs a licence at any value
QBCC lists drainage, plumbing and drainage, gas fitting, chemical termite management, fire protection, completed residential building inspection, building design, site classification and mechanical services.
The low-value handyman exception does not cover electrical or plumbing work, or work requiring an occupational licence. Electrical licensing also has its own rules.
Employees and supervisors
Most employees carrying out building work for a licensed contractor do not need their own QBCC licence. Different rules apply when the employee oversees or directs building work, ensures a competent standard or checks compliance with plans and specifications. A nominee or site supervisor needs the appropriate licence for that responsibility.
Occupational licensing can also apply to employees undertaking or overseeing particular specialist work. Being on wages does not remove those requirements.
Subcontractors, companies and trusts
A subcontractor is not the same as an employee. Check who engages you, what work you agree to carry out and whether the arrangement requires a contractor or occupational licence. QBCC’s guide is a starting point; specific exemptions can apply.
If a company will sign the contract, check the company’s licence as well as the individual who will supervise its work. An individual licence does not automatically authorise the company. Read the company licence and nominee guide.
A trust cannot hold a QBCC licence. The individual or company acting as trustee must apply in the appropriate class.
Check these details before quoting
Write down:
- The work included in the quote, including any specialist tasks.
- The total value and how it has been calculated.
- Who will sign the contract: you, a company or a trustee.
- Who engages you and whether you are an employee or subcontractor.
- Who will supervise the work and which licences they hold.
- Any exemption you intend to rely on.
Use that information to check the current QBCC guidance. If an exemption or unusual arrangement is unclear, confirm it with QBCC before contracting. A licence exemption does not remove other building, safety or occupational obligations.
Get the application started in the right place
Builders Licence Success helps identify the likely licence and prepare the required application material. QBCC decides licence applications. You do not need to choose a class before contacting BLS, but a clear description of the jobs you plan to quote helps.
Ready to quote your own work? Start the next-step check. Tell BLS what the job involves, who will contract for it and how you will operate.