SEQ flood recovery — tips for rebuilding and tradie register.
With storm season here the building industry regulator is reminding Queenslanders to always use licensed contractors for repairs.
The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is warning residents not to risk their homes when it comes to repairing any damage as a result of storms or natural disasters.
QBCC Commissioner Richard Cassidy said sometimes unlicensed contractors took advantage of people who needed homes repaired but did not want to wait for insurance claims.
“It’s really not worth it. The last thing you need is unfinished work that isn’t done by a licensed contractor and not to standard,” he said.
“Our QBCC-licensed contractors have the required qualifications and knowledge of the work they are licensed to carry out and this makes them the only choice to help you rebuild after a severe weather event or disaster.
“Anyone who’s operating without a licence is not only breaking the law but putting the safety of Queenslanders at risk.
“This is why the QBCC’s licensing system is so important as it ensures licensed trades have the right qualifications to carry out the work they are contracted to do.”
Mr Cassidy said following recent flooding in South-East Queensland the QBCC was assisting the recovery effort in Inglewood, Darling Downs.
“We have a presence at the Inglewood Recovery Hub to share essential QBCC information such as licensing registers and provide advice on mould awareness, asbestos management and plumbing impacts after flooding, among other things,” he said.
Mr Cassidy reminded home owners to ensure any work was accompanied by a written contract, that they are not pressured into signing anything without fully understanding it and know who they are contracting with.
You can access a free licence check on the QBCC website to confirm if a person is appropriately licensed
There is also a free find a local contractor search to help consumers locate a local, licensed and skilled tradesperson.
Further information and factsheets on rebuilding after a natural disaster are available on the QBCC website.
From the Electrical Safety Office
Watch out for deteriorated wiring or cracked and brittle Bakelite fittings in older electrical installations
Electrical installations wired prior to 1960 have a greater risk of failure as the equipment is coming to the end of its service life. These installations are likely to contain cable insulation known as VIR (vulcanised Indian rubber) or TRS (tough rubber sheathed). VIR and TRS cable insulation may have deteriorated to the point of exposing live conductors.
Another safety risk is aging Bakelite fittings such as light fittings, functions boxes and power points. These fixtures can become brittle and be easily damaged resulting in exposed live parts.
Take extra care when accessing roof spaces or performing repairs or renovations in older homes. Make sure the electrical supply is isolated before you enter the roof space. Isolation is also a good risk control for renovations involving wall alterations which may have live electrical cables in them.
When VIR/ TRS cable or damaged Bakelite fittings are detected, the homeowner, business owner or the owner of the installation should be told about the risks and how to eliminate them. It’s likely that the wiring systems or Bakelite fittings will need to be replaced.
If you employ licensed electricians, make sure they can identify these types of older wiring systems before work gets underway.
Originally published in eSAFE Electrical bulletin October 2021.
The QBCC recently trialled a compulsory continuing professional development (CCPD) framework with a goal of developing a scheme to support the Queensland industry.
