Adding or moving internal walls is one of the most efficient ways to change how your home works. Whether you want to add a home office, divide a large bedroom, or create storage space, wall partitions are a smart solution. But in Queensland, not all wall changes are exempt from building rules.
This guide outlines everything you need to know about building wall partitions in Queensland homes, including when approval is required, design tips, materials and the Qline construction process.
Wall partitions are internal, non-loadbearing walls used to divide space within a home. They are usually built from timber framing and plasterboard and can include insulation, soundproofing and fire-rated materials where needed.
In most cases, if the partition wall is: – Not loadbearing – Located entirely inside the home – Not affecting fire safety or escape routes – Not altering external walls or roofing
…it is considered minor work and may not need building approval.
You must seek building approval if the wall: – Supports roof or floor loads (loadbearing) – Changes structural integrity or layout – Affects fire-rated walls (such as those adjoining a garage) – Changes plumbing, electrical or ventilation systems – Is part of a larger renovation that involves structural work
Approval is typically sought through a private building certifier. A professional assessment will confirm whether your wall needs sign-off.
Allow for minimum door widths and swing space, especially if the area will be a bedroom or home office.
Where walls separate a garage or different occupancy areas, additional fire separation and acoustic control may be required under the Building Code of Australia.
Qline delivers practical, high-quality partition wall installations in homes across South East Queensland.
Can I install a partition wall without approval? Yes, if it’s non-loadbearing and doesn’t affect fire safety, structure or services. Confirm with a building certifier.
Do I need a builder’s licence for a simple internal wall? If the job costs more than $3,300 in labour and materials, it must be completed by a QBCC-licensed builder.
Can I move or remove an existing wall? Not always. If it’s structural or loadbearing, removal will need engineering and council approval.
Can I add soundproofing to a new wall? Yes. Acoustic insulation or special plasterboard can help reduce sound transfer between rooms.
Will partitions affect my floor plan approval? Possibly, especially if changing habitable room definitions or egress paths. Check with a certifier.
If you’re thinking about modifying your home with partition walls, Qline provides expert design advice, compliant builds and licensed trades. We make internal changes stress-free and council-ready.
Contact Qline today to arrange a free consultation and quote.
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