Tougher disciplinary process announced for builders

Builders will face greater consequences for poor quality work under new rules. Below is government announcement released 3 April 

The improvements to occupational licensing ensure that trusted professionals undertaking building work can be held accountable if the work is not done right the first time. 

What the improvements include 

Expected to take effect in 2026, work is underway to improve occupational licensing for licensed building practitioners (LBPs), licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers and the work they do. 

Changes include: 

• Improving the disciplinary processes for LBPs by allowing the registrar to triage complaints and appoint investigators where needed. 

• Publishing details of LBPs whose licences have been suspended for disciplinary reasons – helping homeowners choose an LBP for their building work. 

• Progressing work to establish a new waterproofing licence class – homeowners can be confident lbps completing their wet area bathrooms and level-entry showers are suitably qualified and accountable for their work. 

• Improving the complaints processes for licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers – registrars can start the complaints process without a complainant. 

• Establishing codes of ethics for licensed electrical workers and licensed plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers to promote professional standards of behaviour – any breach will become a disciplinary offence. 

Why the improvements are being made 

The improvements to occupational licensing are intended to: 

• Support building work being done right the first time. 

• Encourage tradespeople to complete quality building work. 

• Give homeowners confidence in the tradespeople working on their homes and a clear path to follow if things go wrong. 

• Maintain a balance between affordability and the quality of construction within the building sector. 

Find information about regulating building professionals and practitioners 

PlaceMakers will provide more information on this announcement, and its implications for builders, as more detail becomes available.