A self-certification scheme, allowing skilled plumbers and drainlayers to sign off their own work, will provide huge benefits for Southlanders.
The Government is progressing the "Self-certification by Plumbers and Drainlayers Bill" to put responsibility into trusted tradies' hands and has recently decided to expand it to cover more residential work and some commercial activity.
This scheme will speed up building work in this province by allowing approved plumbers and drainlayers, with a proven track record, to certify that their work is consistent with the building consent.
Trusted tradespeople want to get on with delivering the homes and infrastructure that local people need, but too often they are slowed down by lengthy inspection delays that hold back productivity and push up the cost of building.
The scheme will now cover the majority of plumbing and drainlaying work in a home, along with some commercial jobs, including installing a kitchenette in a small office staff room.
It will also better support rural communities in Southland by covering common onsite systems such as septic tanks, as well as stormwater retention tanks in both rural and urban areas.
Master Plumbers has advocated for years for plumbers and drainlayers to be able to self-certify, just like electricians and gasfitters, and these changes have been welcomed as a significant milestone for the industry, that will enhance efficiency and productivity.
Self-certification is about making the building consent system simpler and more practical, while keeping responsibility firmly with qualified practitioners and ensuring consumers are protected.
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