What is a Building Information Certificate (BIC)?

A Building Information Certificate (BIC) is a council-issued document that protects owners from enforcement action relating to unauthorised or non-compliant building works. It is commonly used when buying or selling property, or when previous works were done without approval. Once issued, a BIC means the council will not require demolition, alteration, or removal of the building (or part of it) for 7 years, provided the building’s condition doesn’t become unsafe. It does not retrospectively approve the works, but it offers certainty and legal protection for owners and prospective purchasers.