Most private building certifiers advertise their services in the Yellow Pages. Consumers can enquire about the accreditation history of a private or local government building certifier by contacting the Building Services Authority (BSA).

The agreement to engage a private certifier must be in writing and state the certification fee. Most private certifiers will have a standard engagement agreement. You should check that any conditions contained in the agreement are acceptable.

All accredited building certifiers are bound by a strict code of conduct, and have an obligation to always act in the public interest. Severe penalties can apply if they fail in these duties. The Building Services Authority (BSA) carries out audits of building certifiers' work, investigates complaints and can take disciplinary action against building certifiers found guilty of professional misconduct. Any person may lodge a complaint with the BSA against the action of a building certifier.

The BSA also has available for purchase a publication entitled 'Consumer Guide', which provides advice about the building process and building practitioners.