MBIE invests in LBP awareness

Joint industry and consumer campaign created to explain RBW and the need for LBPs

As the construction boom continues, more people are involved in building work than ever before. While builders are required to stay up to speed with building law changes (and most of them committed to doing so), homeowners are not generally as aware of the ins and outs of industry regulation.

To ensure everyone is building correctly and employing the right people to carry out different types of building work, MBIE has launched an awareness campaign that will run until the end of the year.

Aimed at both consumers and industry, it’s designed to help homeowners understand what restricted building work is, and when they need to use a licensed building practitioner (LBP) to build it right.

“We’re continuing to see high volumes of residential building consents,” says LBP registrar Paul Hobbs. “In times of high demand, it’s particularly important for people to understand that their choice of practitioner matters.

If an LBP is required but not used, it could affect the safety, value and insurability of a home, and lead to a fine of up to $20,000 for the homeowner or builder.”

How you can help promote the LBP programme

When quoting for or discussing work with potential customers, make sure to mention your status as an LBP and explain what that means for them and the work you carry out. As more homeowners become aware of LBPs and the importance of using one, they will start to look for qualified practitioners, weeding out those who aren’t licensed.

The campaign is encouraging homeowners to ask for an LBP’s ID card and to check the LBP register. The radio, print and social media campaign also reminds practitioners of their rights and obligations when building.