Restricted Building Work regulations take effect
< Back Thursday, 12 January 2012As
of 1 March 2012 some building work will be classified as Restricted
Building Work (RBW) meaning you must be a Licenced Building
Practitioner (LBP) to undertake or supervise these jobs.
In 2004 changes were made to the Building Act to encourage better
building design and construction. As part of the changes the LBP
scheme was introduced recognising and supporting professional
skills in the industry. Currently the scheme is competency based
but in 2015 it will become qualifications based. The introduction
of RBW is another step toward giving consumers confidence that
their homes will be built right the first time.
What qualifies as RBW?
The new regulations mean that any design and construction
work that is critical to the integrity of the building will be
considered RBW. In particular, it covers work that ensures a
building is structually sound and weathertight. RBW can apply to a
new construction, or alteration of an existing building. However,
if the work does not require a building consent, then it is not
RBW.
RBW only relates to residential construction and design. The term 'residential' applies to free-standing, fully detached homes or small to medium apartment buildings. RBW does not apply to commercial buildings.
What does it mean to Brick and
Block Layers?
As
one of the 5 trade licence classes, Brick and Block Layers are
licenced to carry out or supervise Structural Masonry or Masonry
Veneer practices. However it is important that LBP only do RBW that
they have the skills for. A Memorandom (Record of Building Work)
must be completed and given to the owner and the local council at
the completion of the project. LBP are being encouraged to report
any faulty work and penalties are in place to ensure work done is
at the highest standard.
If you need to know more about what RBW means to you, click the
link below or go to www.builditright.govt.nz