BUILDERS NETWORK

Stuart Collinson – CFL Building Permits surveyors 

Stuart started by telling us about his involvement with the Building Appeals Board (From their website)

The BAB hears appeals and disputes in relation to building control matters and can waive, modify or vary the provisions of particular regulations based upon the particular case.  Furthermore, the BAB can determine that a particular design or element of a building complies with the Act and Building Regulations.  There are a number of circumstances in which the BAB may be of assistance to you.

            Appeals and disputes are generally determined within four weeks of an application. The majority of determinations of modification and referral applications are generally made within two weeks of an application.

    The BAB may begin to hear or otherwise deal with an appeal heard within 48 hours of application for an additional fee if the BAB agrees to the request.  This is commonly referred to as a “fast track appeal”.

Stuart also spoke about the company’s work doing costings for the Commonwealth bank. The bank requires costings to make sure that it marries with the loan provided. The costings are calculated using “Cordells” figures times the square metres.

Stuart said that to get a certificate of Occupancy a Plumbing certificate is required. Other certificates – Electrical, tanking, insulation, fighting, termite may also be requested, but not mandatory.

Stuart spoke about new regulations that relate to people with disabilities. For example, the requirement to provide a lift, if the second level is greater than 200 square metres, and the requirement to provide a disabled toilet if one has not previously been provided.

We also talked about new lighting regulations that came in to force in May requiring no more than 5 watts per square metre.

Products that are imported (like foam cladding) that may not meet regulations even though they have been stamped.

It was an excellent night, even though there were only 4 people in attendance.

Thanks to Stuart for his attendance and David S. for organising it.