9 August 2004 Media Statement

Building industry urged to have its say on proposed licensing system

Consultation with the building industry is vital to ensure the new building licensing system works, Associate Commerce Minister John Tamihere says.

Mr Tamihere today released a discussion document on building industry licensing. The licensing system for building practitioners is one of a package of measures set out in the Building Bill currently being considered by Parliament.

The Building Bill sets the framework for the licensing system but the detail of how it will work is still to be set out in regulations under the legislation.

"This consultation is the first phase of developing that detail and is crucial in getting it right," Mr Tamihere said.

Under the proposed model, from 2009 certain building work called "restricted work" will have to be carried out or supervised by a licensed building practitioner.

The discussion document focuses on two key issues:

What work should be "restricted" to licensed people

Who should be licensed.

Mr Tamihere urged people - particularly industry members - to read the discussion document and make a submission.

"This is a key chance for you to have your say. Your input is essential to making sure the licensing regime is sensible and workable and results in us all having buildings that are designed and built right first time."

Submissions close on November 30.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find out more?

A leaflet called A guide to building licensing summarises the proposed changes and explains how to make a submission. It will be available from local city and district councils and major building trade outlets. The discussion document Licensing of Building Practitioners: Discussing the Options describes the proposed system and includes a form to help people make submissions. It will be available from local city and district councils. This information is also available online at www.builders.govt.nz. Information can also be accessed by calling freephone 0800 60 60 50. A series of industry consultation meetings will be held in major centres around the country in September to discuss the proposed system.

What are the key proposals?

From 2009, you will have to be licensed to do or supervise “restricted” building work. To get a licence you will have to show you have a certain level of capability based on: - practical experience and/or - evidence of qualifications and work to date You will also have to pay a fee. “Restricted work” is proposed to include foundations, brickwork, framing, roofing, cladding, and putting in doors and windows. If you are not licensed, any “restricted work” you do must be supervised by a licensed person. There will be different types of licences for design work and construction work. A public online register will list information about licensed people, including contact details and details of any disciplinary breaches. Applications for building consents will include the names of licensed people who do the design and construction work.

How do I make a submission?

You can make a submission by filling out the submission form attached to the discussion document.

You can also make a submission online at www.builders.govt.nz

ENDS

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