The Building Commission’s new risk-based audit process is examining the administrative and technical aspects of the building process undertaken by registered builders.

The Building Commission has worked with the building industry to fine tune our new audit tool, including undertaking live testing to ensure its effectiveness.

Under the new process, builders are notified about three weeks before an audit is to be conducted and told what information they will need to provide.

Generally, three building projects are audited to assess compliance with the building legislation, including that registration obligations are met. Records of building work such as contracts and any other document deemed relevant for compliance purposes are examined.

Initially, audit results are used to assess the compliance of building services being carried out. Upon the conclusion of the audit, the builder is notified of the outcome in writing. When necessary, actions for non-compliance may include prosecutions seeking the imposition of penalties, the use of a warning to protect the public from serious non-compliance and the commencement of disciplinary action.

In addition to the compliance audit, general inspections of building work performed by and under the direction of the building contractor are carried out to assess how well building standards are being applied. This includes ensuring compliance with deemed to satisfy provisions in the Building Code of Australia and any alternative solutions approved by the registered building surveyor. General inspections will focus on an area of construction compliance, the nature of which will be determined following a risk-based assessment of all information held by the Building Commission.

The new audit program should not be a concern to builders who are doing the right thing. The changes to the compliance program are aimed at ensuring performance standards are being met and the registration system works as intended. Builders are encouraged to take the opportunity to ask questions about any areas of the legislation they are not familiar with or raise queries on technical matters.

The audit program will continue to involve and be improved to ensure its effectiveness. Any builders who wish to provide feedback during or following the audit are or who are dissatisfied with the way the audit is carried out are encouraged to contact the Building Commission.

By working collaboratively with the building industry, the Building Commission expects constructive and innovative responses that will improve outcomes for consumers.