Discovering that building work doesn’t meet the applicable requirements can be stressful for both builders and property owners. It can also raise questions about what needs to happen before the project can move forward.
There isn’t one answer that applies to every situation. The next steps depend on the issue, the approved documentation and the requirements that apply to the project.
Understanding the Issue
The first step is to understand exactly what the concern involves. Building work may differ from the approved plans, or there may be questions about whether an element meets the relevant requirements.
In other cases, supporting information may be missing, making it difficult to establish whether the work complies.
These situations can require different responses. Missing documentation and work that needs physical correction shouldn’t be treated as the same problem.
Further Evidence May Be Needed
Some matters may require additional information before they can be properly assessed. Depending on the issue, this could include relevant consultant reports, product documentation or other evidence relating to the completed work.
However, providing more paperwork doesn’t automatically resolve a compliance problem. The information needs to address the concern and demonstrate that the applicable requirements have been met.
Corrective Work May Be Required
Where completed work doesn’t meet the relevant requirements, corrective work may be necessary.
The nature and extent of that work will depend on the specific issue. Builders and property owners should seek appropriate guidance before making changes so they understand what needs to be addressed and how the outcome will be assessed.
Assuming that a quick adjustment will be sufficient can lead to further uncertainty and additional work.
Some Matters Need Formal Advice
Not every issue can be resolved through additional documentation or a straightforward repair. Some situations may require formal advice about the appropriate approval or compliance pathway.
The available options depend on the circumstances of the project and the applicable rules. Advice should therefore relate to the actual work and documentation, rather than a general assumption about what usually happens.
Certification Doesn’t Mean Overlooking the Problem
Certification should never be viewed as a way to simply overlook non-compliant work.
A certificate isn’t a substitute for addressing an identified issue. Relevant concerns need to be assessed and appropriately resolved through the pathway that applies to the project.
Seeking guidance early can help builders and property owners understand the requirements before committing to further work.
What Should Builders and Property Owners Do?
If a compliance concern has been raised:
- Clarify what the issue is and which part of the work it affects.
- Gather the approved plans and relevant supporting documentation.
- Seek guidance from the certifier and any relevant consultants.
- Establish whether further evidence, corrective work or formal advice is required.
- Confirm what needs to happen before progressing with the affected work.
Addressing the Issue Early
A compliance concern doesn’t always mean the same outcome for every project. What matters is understanding the issue and following an appropriate process to address it.
For builders and property owners, early communication and clear documentation can help reduce uncertainty and make the next steps easier to understand.