Request a building investigation

Council investigates alleged building matters based on documented information, not unverified verbal reports.

To ensure matters can be properly assessed and to manage risks to authorised officers, all requests for investigation must be submitted via the online Building Investigation Request form and include relevant details and supporting evidence.

The form ensures Council receives sufficient information and supporting evidence to assess the matter appropriately and to ensure the safety of authorised officers attending a site.

Requests that are incomplete, unsupported, or provided verbally are not able to be actioned.

How to apply

Online

Step 1.Confirm your concern

You can submit a request if you are concerned about:

  • Unsafe buildings
  • Alleged illegal or unauthorised building works
  • Use of a building that may not comply with the approved use
  • Other documented potential breaches of the Building Act 1993

IF THERE IS AN IMMEDIATE RISK TO LIFE OR PROPERTY, CONTACT 000 IMMEDIATELY.

Step 2.Have the required information ready

You will be asked to provide:

  • The street address of the property
  • A clear description of the issue you are requesting Council to investigate
  • Photos or other supporting evidence (where available) to justify the allegation
  • Details relevant to potential site safety or occupier behaviour (OHS requirement)
  • Your contact details (optional – anonymous requests may be submitted)

Providing clear and complete information helps Council assess the request and prioritise investigations in a timely manner. If information is not provided, it may extend the timeframe on when the investigation is able to be actioned.

Step 3.Consider anonymity

You may choose to submit your request anonymously.

Please note:

  • Anonymous requests must still include sufficient detail and evidence
  • If Council officers cannot contact you to clarify information or request further details, the matter may not be able to be investigated

Step 4.Submit the online form

Request a Building Investigation

What happens next

Once submitted:

  • Your request will be reviewed by Building Services staff
  • Council will assess whether further action can be taken based on the information provided
  • You may be contacted if additional information is required (if contact details are provided)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remain anonymous?

Anonymous requests may be accepted. However, where a request does not include sufficient detail or supporting evidence, and Council is unable to contact the requester to clarify or confirm information, Council may be unable to assess or investigate the matter any further.

The absence of contact details may limit Council’s ability to verify information, request further evidence, or manage risk, and may result in no further action able to be taken.

Why do I need to complete a form?

Council can only investigate building matters based on documented information. The form ensures sufficient detail is provided to assess the issue and to manage safety risks for authorised officers attending on-site.

Can I lodge a complaint over the phone or in person?

No. Council does not accept verbal building complaints. All requests must be submitted using the Building Investigation Request Form as Council’s building staff must legally establish ‘reasonable grounds’ to enter private property.

What happens if I don’t provide evidence?

Requests that do not include sufficient information or supporting evidence may not be able to be investigated.


What type of evidence should I provide?

Where possible, provide clear photos, dates, locations and a description of the issue.

Additional information helps Council assess and prioritise requests.

What if the situation is urgent or dangerous?

If there is an immediate risk to life or property, contact 000 IMMEDIATELY.

You may still lodge an online Building Investigation Request form for Council follow-up at a later date.

Will my details be kept confidential?

Yes. Council handles personal information in accordance with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 and relevant provisions of the Building Act 1993.

Contact us

Phone

03 5036 2333

 

Email

building@swanhill.vic.gov.au

 

Location

45 Splatt Street
Swan Hill
VIC 3585
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