How to Get Building Certified in the Fastest and Easiest Way

1. Understand which certification you need for your property.
2. Gather all required documents in advance.
3. Hire a licensed inspector or certifier to guide you through the process.
4. Make any necessary repairs or upgrades to meet compliance.
5. Schedule your final inspection and receive your certification.

Getting a building certified might sound complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or business owner, certification ensures your building meets safety, environmental, and regulatory standards. It can also increase property value, make insurance more manageable, and help avoid legal headaches.

If you’re looking for the fastest and easiest way to get building certified, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, from understanding the proper certification for your building to passing the final inspection—without unnecessary stress or delays.

Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Understand What Certification You Need

Before you start the process, the first step is to determine which type of building certification applies to your property. Not all buildings need the same accreditation, so understanding your specific requirements can save you time and effort.

Common Types of Building Certifications

1. Building Code Compliance – Ensures your structure meets local safety and construction laws. Usually required for occupancy approval.
2. Energy Efficiency Certifications (e.g., LEED, Energy Star) – Needed to show that your building is environmentally friendly and cost-efficient.
3. Fire Safety Certification – Confirms that fire prevention systems (alarms, sprinklers, exits) meet official safety codes.
4. Structural Safety Certification – Required in some areas to verify a building’s stability, especially for older properties.
5. Accessibility Compliance (ADA, etc.) ensures that the building is accessible to people with disabilities, often necessary for public buildings and businesses.

How to Find Out What You Need

• Check local regulations. Visit your city or municipality’s website to see what is required for your property type.
• Talk to a professional – It’s highly recommended you speak to an expert on building certification – quickly tell you which certifications apply to your building.
• Look at records – If your building was certified before, see if renewals or updates are you’re already ahead of the game once

Once you know your certification, let’s review the paperwork required to move forward.

Step 2: Prepare the Necessary Documents

Now that you know which certification you need, gather the paperwork. Having the proper documents ready can speed up the process and help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Standard Documents Required for Building Certification

While requirements vary based on location and certification type, here are some documents that are often needed:

• Building plans and blueprints – Shows the structure’s layout, materials, and compliance with building codes.
• Previous permits and certifications – If your building was certified before, you might need proof of past approvals.
• Inspection reports – Any reports from previous safety, structural, or energy inspections.
• Utility records – Some certifications (like energy efficiency) require past electricity and water usage records.
• Fire safety reports – If fire certification is needed, you’ll need documentation on alarms, sprinklers, and fire exits.
• Disability access compliance (if applicable) – Proof that ramps, elevators, and other accessibility features meet legal standards.

How to Get These Documents Quickly

• Check with your local building department – They often keep records of past permits and inspections.
• Ask your contractor or architect – If your building was recently constructed, they may have copies of blueprints and compliance documents.
• Hire a consultant – Some professionals specialise in gathering paperwork and streamlining the certification process.

With your documents in order, you’re ready to find the right inspector or certifier to get things moving.

Step 3: Find a Licensed Inspector or Certifier

Once your paperwork is in order, the next step is finding a licensed professional to certify your building. This is a crucial part of the process, as an inspector will assess whether your property meets the necessary standards.

Why Hiring a Professional Speeds Up the Process

Getting a certification isn’t just about having the proper documents—it’s about ensuring your building meets the required standards. A qualified inspector can:

• Identify potential issues early so you can fix them before the official certification process.
• Help you navigate local regulations and avoid unnecessary paperwork.
• Ensure your application process runs smoothly and efficiently.

How to Choose the Right Inspector or Certifier

• Check local government websites – Many municipalities provide lists of approved inspectors.
• Look for licensed professionals – Ensure they are certified by a recognised authority in your area.
• Read reviews and ask for recommendations – Contractors, architects, or property managers can often recommend reliable inspectors.
• Compare costs and timelines – Prices and wait times can vary, so get quotes and estimated completion times before committing.

Estimated Costs and Timelines

• Essential inspections (e.g., fire safety, accessibility compliance): $200–$800, usually completed within a few days.
• Structural or energy efficiency certifications cost $1,000+ and take several weeks to complete, depending on the building’s size and complexity.
• Expedited services: Some inspectors offer fast-track certifications for an additional fee if you’re in a hurry.

Once you’ve hired an inspector, they’ll let you know if your building is compliant or if you need to make any updates or repairs before certification. Let’s move on to that next!

Step 4: Make Any Required Updates or Repairs

Once your inspector evaluates the building, they may identify areas needing fixing or upgrading before certification. Addressing these issues quickly and correctly will help you avoid delays in the approval process.

Common Reasons Buildings Fail Certification

While every building is different, here are some of the most common issues that can prevent certification:

• Outdated or unsafe electrical wiring is a frequent problem, especially in older buildings.
• Structural weaknesses – Cracks in walls, weak foundations, or roof damage can be red flags.
• Fire safety violations – Missing or non-functional fire alarms, extinguishers, or sprinkler systems.
• Accessibility issues – Lack of wheelchair ramps, elevators, or compliant door widths.
• Energy inefficiency – Poor insulation, inefficient HVAC systems, or outdated lighting can affect energy certification.

How to Fix Issues Quickly

• Handle minor repairs yourself—If it’s something simple like replacing smoke detectors or sealing cracks, you can likely do it yourself.
• Hire professionals for major fixes – Licensed contractors should always handle structural, electrical, or fire safety issues.
• Request a follow-up inspection – Some inspectors offer a second review to ensure your fixes meet certification standards.

Addressing these updates now will best position the final certification inspection. Let’s move on to the final step: getting officially certified!

Step 5: Schedule and Pass Your Certification Inspection

Now that you’ve made all the necessary updates, it’s time for the final inspection. This is the last step before officially receiving your building certification.

What to Expect During the Inspection

The inspector will walk through your property and check for:
✔ Compliance with local building codes and regulations
✔ Proper installation of safety features (fire alarms, emergency exits, etc.)
✔ Structural integrity and energy efficiency (if applicable)
✔ Any remaining issues that need fixing before approval

If everything meets the standards, you’ll receive your certification shortly after the inspection!

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Inspection

• Double-check all paperwork – Have your permits, blueprints, and previous inspection reports ready.
• Do a final walk-through – Test smoke alarms, check exits, and ensure any repairs were completed correctly.
• Be present during the inspection – If the inspector has questions, being there can help resolve any concerns quickly.

What If Your Building Doesn’t Pass?

Don’t panic—many buildings don’t pass on the first try. If issues are found:

• The inspector will give you a list of what needs to be fixed.
• You’ll be given time to make corrections.
• A follow-up inspection can be scheduled once the changes are made.

Once you pass, congratulations! Your building is now certified and meets all required standards and regulations.