An update on “Construct NSW” – the building reform program being led by the NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler OAM.

Certifiers are an incredibly important part of NSW’s building and construction industry, and will continue to play a key role as we work together to lift the overall standard of the industry. It’s vital that you are well informed. Please do invest a little time in thoroughly understanding the expectations of Certifiers as we go into 2021.

OC Audits

Over 25 Audits have begun since the Residential Apartment Buildings (Compliance and Enforcement Powers) Act came into play on September 1st, covering sites in the Sydney Metro area, Western Sydney, the Newcastle region, Wollongong, and also northern NSW.

These audits are revealing work of poor quality and a disappointing understanding of Australian Standards and the BCA. Whilst several sites have showed excellence, many have delivered work that is completely unacceptable. It is also showing that some Certifiers are hesitant to hold projects to account on building quality. The Building Commissioner’s reform program has a strong focus on this and wants to lift Certifier standards quickly, to enable quality uplift across the entire construction industry.

Certifiers Practice Standard

Under the Building Commissioner’s program a ‘Certifiers Practice Standard’ (CPS) has been created to establish clear expectations for the Certifier industry. The CPS sets out the approach that needs to be followed when undertaking certification work as public officials for residential apartment buildings. Read the CPS here.

Have your say

If you’d like to comment on the broader changes coming into effect from 1 July 2021 under the Design & Building Practitioners Act, consultation is open for input until 11 January. This is your chance to contribute to the shaping of this important set of new regulations. Be part of change! Go here to read and have your say.

David Chandler video update

If you’d like to view the latest video conversation with NSW Building Commissioner, David Chandler click here.
Construct NSW e:newsletter

To keep updated on the Construct NSW reforms and potential impacts to Certifiers, subscribe to the new Construct NSW e:newsletter. Click here to sign up.

This content has been provided by Construct NSW