NSW Fair Trading has released a new comprehensive practice standard, outlining how building certifiers must undertake their role to ensure building quality and compliance with the law.
The Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson said the new standard, Practice standard for registered certifiers, would help registered certifiers turn the requirements under the Building and Development Certifiers Act 2018 and the Environmental Planning Assessment Act 1979 into practice.
“For too long, the practice of many certifiers has been sub-standard,” Mr Anderson said.
“With the release of this Guide we’ve drawn a line under that,” he said.
“From today there can be no excuses; these new standards clearly outline the approach Certifiers must follow in their work and what must be done to comply with the law.
Mr Anderson said the Standard was developed in consultation with a panel of experts and covered fire protection, wet areas and waterproofing, occupation certificates, and ensuring the final building was consistent with development consent.
He said the Practice Standard would be reviewed and updated prior to the 1 July 2021 commencement of the State’s building reform agenda underpinned by the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2020.
“This is a living document that will be updated regularly to ensure it continues to be relevant and fit-for-purpose,” the Minister said.
“The standard works to clarify certifiers’ professional obligations as public officials, enhancing accountability and responsibility.”
Mr Anderson said the new Practice Standard would initially apply to certifiers working on residential apartment buildings, where most problems and complaints had been received.
The 108-page Practice Standard can be accessed at this PS News link.
