New Zealand building sector heading for overhaul

Country: New Zealand

16 February 2009

Housebuilders could soon have to obtain a permit, and have their materials qualified, in order to construct homes in New Zealand, under a planned overhaul of the construction industry and its codes of practice.

Housing and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson is calling for a radical shake-up of the Building Act, after seeing what he believes is proof of “rotting homes.”

Mr Williamson yesterday told the Herald that legislative changes were necessary after being shown properties under construction that, in the opinion of experienced builders, were of particularly bad quality.

Federation chairman Mike Fox said a review of the act was "very timely", and builder licensing should be a priority. "The public needs to know a builder is capable of doing the work they are doing."

The review is due to be finalised by the end of 2009.

See Also: New Zealand

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