Do-it-yourself handy men and women have been urged by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to make themselves aware of the rules and regulations applying to domestic building and plumbing work.
Executive Director of Operations at VBA, Lynda McAlary-Smith said some smaller projects were suitable to DIY, but larger and more complicated projects needed to be undertaken by a professional.
“Making improvements can be an exciting and satisfying process,” Ms McAlary-Smith said.
“However, if you are doing any building or renovating work on your home it is important to know when to work with the professionals,” she said.
“Although we love to see the results of our hard work and save money, if the project costs more than $10,000 and involves structural work or two or more specific trade skills, you will need to use a registered building practitioner and enter into a major domestic building contract.”
Ms McAlary-Smith said DIY projects could often end up costing more than people had planned for if things went wrong.
“If you don’t follow the right steps DIY can become expensive and cause more problems down the track, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing, so make a plan before you start,” she said.
“Licensed and registered builders and plumbers have the training and experience to handle any challenges that come up during renovations and carry out the work safely.”
She said VBA had a home renovation essentials online hub with guides on a variety of topics including landscaping, projecting adjoining properties, energy efficiency requirements and appointing a building surveyor.
Ms McAlary-Smith said most plumbing work was regulated and required a professional with some plumbing maintenance that could be carried out by everyday Victorians limited to small jobs, such as fixing a leaking tap.
The VBA’s home renovation essentials online hub can be accessed at this PS News link.
