- By law, you must have a written ‘major domestic building contract’ with a registered builder for work worth more than $10,000, including:
- erecting or constructing a home, and any associated work. For example, landscaping, paving, retaining structures, driveways, fencing, lighting, heating, air conditioning, water supply or sewerage.
- renovations, alterations, extensions, repairs and any other improvements to a home.
- Your Contractor must be registered with the VBA to perform building work valued over $10,000. This registration signifies that the builder has met specific qualifications and competency standards.
- Builders must have domestic building insurance (formerly known as builder’s warranty insurance) for projects worth $16,000 or more. This insurance protects homeowners.
- Deposits are capped by law. If the contract price is under $20,000, the deposit can be no more than 10%. If the price is $20,000 or more, the deposit cannot exceed 5% according to Consumer Affairs Victoria.
- A building contract would include a liquidated damages clause. This may be a pre-determined sum that is used when building work is delayed and actual damages are hard to prove. This may be referred to as ‘delay damages’.
- Registered builders must adhere to all relevant building codes, standards, and regulations throughout the construction process.
- Builders are expected to maintain high standards of workmanship and deliver projects that are of good quality and comply with agreed-upon specifications.
- A licensed plumber is required to lodge a compliance certificate within five days of completing works when the total value of work is $750 or more, including labour, materials, appliances and fixtures.
- In Victoria, you need a Certificate of Electrical Safety (COES) whenever a licensed electrician completes any electrical installation work. This includes tasks like installing a new appliance, upgrading a switchboard, or replacing light switches.e COES is issued by the electrician and serves as proof that the work was done by a qualified professional and complies with safety standards.
- Waterproofing Certificates are required to be provided when renovating or constructing wet areas like bathrooms, balconies, or laundries, particularly if you’re modifying the existing waterproofing or plumbing. While not always mandatory for minor renovations, it’s crucial for structural changes, new construction, or when selling your property to demonstrate compliance with Australian Standards.
- In Australia, shower screens must comply with Australian Standards, specifically AS/NZS 2208:2013 for safety glazing materials and often require certification to demonstrate this compliance. These standards ensure the glass is safe and appropriate for use in a bathroom environment, minimizing the risk of injury from breakage.