Building owners reminded: 8 weeks to complete cladding checklist for free

The below information was released by QBCC on 5th February 2019: http://www.qbcc.qld.gov.au/media-releases/building-owners-reminded-8-weeks-complete-cladding-checklist-free

The latest combustible cladding incident in Melbourne has highlighted the importance of Queensland building owners completing the Safer Buildings checklist before 29 March 2019.

With eight weeks until the deadline for Part 1 of the assessment, the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) has issued reminder letters urging building owners to begin the process as soon as possible.

Under cladding laws which took effect in Queensland in October last year, private owners of multi-storey buildings that were built or modified since 1994 must complete Part 1 of the Safer Buildings checklist before 29 March 2019.

Part 1 of the online checklist allows owners to assess their building free of charge, and most are expected to be able to exit the process at this point.

Failure to complete Part 1 could result in fines or being required by law to complete Part 2 or 3 of the checklist, which require expert advice at a cost.

QBCC Commissioner Brett Bassett said registrations had shown regional areas as responding diligently to the requirement.

However large metropolitan areas have a much lower response rate and tend to be owned by corporations or bodies corporate.

“It’s important to note that most people will complete the checklist after answering four simple questions about the building’s age, size, use and the materials on its exterior,” he said.

“Once the 29 March deadline has passed, in addition to risking fines for non-compliance, a building industry professional report will have to be provided to the QBCC.

“The checklist is about ensuring the safety of Queenslanders wherever they live, work or play, so it’s very important for building owners to register their property through the Safer Buildings website.”

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