Building compliance inspections and complaints
The Shire of Harvey as a permit authority, is responsible for ensuring buildings are constructed and occupied in accordance with the Building Act 2011.
Shire Building Compliance Officers may enter a property to inspect building work or investigate reported compliance issues.
Wherever possible, the Shire will work with property owners to resolve issues and assist in achieving compliance.
Building issues we can investigate
We may investigate issues such as:
- Building work without a required permit
- Building work that does not comply with an approved permit
- Building work affecting neighbouring properties
- Dangerous or unsafe buildings
- Non-compliant pool or spa safety barriers
Reporting building compliance issues
To report a possible building compliance issue, please complete a Building Compliance Request Form.
Completed forms can be:
- Emailed to shire@harvey.wa.gov.au
- Lodged in person at the Shire Administration Office in Harvey or Australind
- Posted via Australia Post – PO BOX 500, HARVEY WA 6220
Please provide as much information as possible so we can assess the issue quickly. Include your contact details in case we need more information or can provide updates.
Reports are treated as confidential. However, information may be released under freedom of information laws, and you may be required to provide evidence if the matter goes to court.
What happens after you report an issue
A compliance officer will review your report and decide whether we can investigate.
We may not be able to investigate if:
- There is no breach of building legislation
- The issue has already been resolved
- The matter is outside our authority
- Another government agency is responsible (for example, fencing disputes or private property damage)
If we cannot investigate, we will notify you in writing and explain why.
If non-compliance is confirmed, we may:
- Work with the owner to achieve compliance
- Issue a fine
- Issue a building order
- Take legal action
Our goal is always to achieve voluntary compliance first.
Please note that investigations are prioritised based on public safety risk and available evidence. Timeframes can vary. In some cases, unauthorised work may be resolved through retrospective approval.
Need advice?
The information on this page is a general guide only. If you need advice about building compliance, please contact the Shire. A building officer is available during business hours to assist by phone, email, or in person.
