BSA auditing storm affected suburbs

The Building Services Authority will audit contractors working on storm damaged homes in Brisbane to make sure they are doing the right thing.

Minister for Public Works, Housing and ICT Robert Schwarten said the audits were part of the Queensland Government’s comprehensive storm recovery operations, following the terrible storms of November 2008.

“The audits are being conducted in Ashgrove, The Gap and Keperra on 18 and 19 February,” Mr Schwarten said.

“After a natural disaster in which homes are damaged, we often find that consumers are approached by people offering building services.

“Some of these people are unlicensed and dealing with such people may not only expose homeowners to poor workmanship but also deny them protection afforded under BSA’s Home Warranty Scheme.

“Homeowners can easily check whether or not a contractors is licensed by accessing the BSA website,” he said.

The audits will also ensure unlicensed contractors are not taking work from their licensed counterparts.

Mr Schwarten said in addition to checking contractors have the appropriate licence for the work they are performing, BSA will also ensure licensed contractors have taken out appropriate insurance under BSA’s Home Warranty Scheme, have obtained necessary building approvals and have a written contract in place with the homeowner.

“I urge any contractors uncertain of their responsibilities to contact BSA for information.

“In situations like this homeowners may be tempted to try to save costs by performing some work themselves.

“In our experience this can lead to further costs if you have to get a contractor to rectify your attempted repairs.

“Any homeowners performing work on their own property must have a BSA-issued Owner Builder Permit, if the work is valued over $11,000 (including the market value of materials, labour and GST).

“Any homeowners working without a permit must contact BSA within 24 hours and arrange a permit,” Mr Schwarten said.

“If the BSA finds contractors or homeowners who are not meeting their obligations they will immediately shut down the building site.

“Homeowners in these areas have already been through a terrible ordeal and we are doing our best to prevent them going through another one.”

All building work valued in excess of $1,100 must be carried out by a BSA-licensed contractor.

If you are unsure of your responsibilities or have any building-related questions please visit www.bsa.qld.gov.au or phone 1300 BSA BSA.

Media contacts:  Minister's Office: 3237 1832
                        BSA: 3404 3027