Verify your builder
How to Check a Builder's SA Licence in 60 Seconds
Before you sign anything, spend 60 seconds confirming the builder is licenced. In South Australia the register is public and free. If a builder is not on it, or their licence is suspended, you should know that before you commit.
Public source: CBS SA: public licence registerFree 60-second check
How to check a builder's SA licence
- 1
Open the CBS SA licence register
Go to secure.cbs.sa.gov.au/OccLicR. No login required.
- 2
Enter the business or personal name
Enter the legal entity name (not the marketing brand). Ask the builder for the exact name on their licence if the brand differs.
- 3
Read the licence card
Status must show Current. Class must include the work quoted (a Restricted class cannot do a full new-home build). Expiry date must be in the future.
- 4
Screenshot the result
Save the result to your project file. Repeat the check just before signing anything, in case the status has changed.
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5 Things You Didn't Know About Builders (But Should!)
A working session on the checks most buyers never make and why they matter before signing.
Section 1
Where to check
Consumer and Business Services SA maintains a free public licence register at secure.cbs.sa.gov.au/OccLicR. No login is needed. It covers builders, plumbers, electricians, gas fitters, painters, and other licenced trades operating in South Australia.
Section 2
How to search
Open the register. Set "Occupation" to Building Work Contractor. Type the builder's business name in the "Name" field. Click Search. The result shows the licence number, licence class (contractor, supervisor, or restricted), status, and expiry.
Section 3
What to look at on the result
Status must be Current. If it says Suspended, Cancelled, or Expired, the builder cannot legally take on work in that category until it is fixed. Class must match the work you are asking them to do (a Restricted class cannot do a full new-home build). Expiry date must be in the future.
Section 4
If the business name is different from the trading name
Some builders operate under a marketing brand different from the licenced entity. Ask the builder for the exact company name on the licence, and search that. It should match the entity that will appear on your quote and any future contract. If they will not tell you, that is a red flag on its own.
Section 5
What the register does not tell you
The register confirms the licence is valid. It does not tell you about the builder's current financial position, workload, quality of past work, or communication style. Use it alongside the other steps in this cluster.
Section 6
Save what you find
Screenshot the search result and keep it with your project file. Do the same check again just before you sign anything, in case anything has changed. Licence status can move.
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Learn moreThis is general due-diligence guidance drawn from public sources and industry practice. It is not legal, financial, or building advice. Always confirm current licence and insurance requirements directly with Consumer and Business Services SA, and consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.