Purpose of the compliance inspection

Building and Energy carries out a range of building information and education activities, including compliance inspections, in order to reduce consumer harm and avoid disputes and complaints.

Non-compliance with legislative requirements often leads to consumer complaints which become a cost to both parties. The primary intention of a compliance inspection is to provide an opportunity to discuss any potential issues before they arise.

Who is subject to a compliance inspection?

This program is focused on assisting industry participants who are defined as 'builders' under the Home Building Contracts Act 1991 (the HBC Act) and are not required to be registered builders, to comply with their contractual obligations. These 'builders' may include, but not limited to, the supply and installation of:

• pools;
• spas;
• pergolas;
• carports;
• garages;
• sheds;
• fencing;
• retaining walls;
• paving;
• driveways;
• landscaping;
• timber floors;
• air conditioning;
• painting work;
• plumbing work; and
• other similar works.

What is a compliance inspection?

The compliance inspection involves an examination of the contracts and associated records relating to a number of recently completed projects valued between $7,500 and $500,000 that fall within the jurisdiction of the HBC Act, with feedback and a report provided. Information obtained during the inspection will remain confidential unless Building and Energy is required to disclose the information by law.

Reporting to industry

General information and statistics will be published on the inspection findings under compliance reports on our website.