Builders heading for shake-up

Builders could be licensed, and their materials accredited, under a proposed shake-up of the building industry and its codes of practice.

Housing and Construction Minister Maurice Williamson is calling for an overhaul of the Building Act, after seeing what he believes is disturbing evidence of shonky builders erecting leaky homes.

Mr Williamson yesterday told the Herald the review of the act would be "a multi-pronged piece of work" that would examine possible legislative changes, licensing of builders and the accreditation of specific building materials.

He said since taking over the portfolio, he had been shown properties under construction that, in the opinion of experienced builders, would not just become leaky, but likely rot.

"I am trying to change the nomenclature ... I know they are called leaky homes, but they are actually rotting homes."

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Posted: 16 Feb 2009

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