12. CHRIS AUCHINVOLE (National—West Coast - Tasman) Link to this
to the Minister for Building and Construction
What announcements has he made recently around cutting red tape and bureaucracy in the building sector?
Hon MAURICE WILLIAMSON (Minister for Building and Construction) Link to this
Last week I announced that the Government will introduce a range of amendments to the Building Act 2004 to help cut red tape and bureaucracy and make builders more accountable. Without compromising quality and safety, these amendments will provide more incentives for builders to build it right first time and will help drive a more efficient and productive sector. These proposed amendments are the result of year-long review of the Building Act, which included consultation with all interested parties. Mr Steve Brackenridge, a builder who has been in the industry for 35 years, said in an interview on One News that change was long overdue, and he congratulated the Government on actually tackling the problem.
Hon MAURICE WILLIAMSON Link to this
Some of the incentives to build it right first time include introducing mandatory written contracts for any building work above $20,000 that set out expectations, warrantees, and remedies for how any disputes will be resolved. Those doing the work will be required to explain what, if any, financial back-up or insurance they have to remedy any faults in the future. These measures will make it easier for homeowners commissioning building work to hold contractors to account for fixing any defects if and when they arise.