MEDIA RELEASE
Building Act Review should focus on risk and cost efficiency
For immediate release on 27 August 2009

Local Government New Zealand welcomes the Government’s review of the Building Act and is keen to see a regulatory outcome that results in robust risk-management and cost-efficient initiatives.

Dianne Hale, Local Government New Zealand’s spokesperson on legislation says the current law is too complex, costly and prescriptive for all involved.

“The outcome is about achieving quality buildings. Regulation needs to focus on that based on risk, cost efficiency and the contributions made by all involved in producing and maintaining buildings in New Zealand.

“For too long, ratepayers have been left to bear a heavily weighted burden as a result of poor building practice. We encourage the review panel to achieve a regulatory system which is fair and equitable and places the incentives (and penalties) in the right place.

“We understand that the review could see significant change to the role of councils and we are open to this. However, we do ask that the Government also thinks strategically about local government’s role and the broader regulatory system.”

Local Government New Zealand believes the Government’s plans to streamline the Licensed Building Practitioner Scheme is a positive step forward. “Clear roles, responsibilities and skills requirements for those designing and building quality homes (and other buildings) are an important part of our building system,” says Ms Hale.

ENDS

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