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The government is moving ahead with plans to increase the use of remote inspections to make the building and consenting process more efficient and affordable.
Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said, “We know that the building and construction sector suffers from a lack of innovation. According to a recent report, productivity levels have remained unchanged since 1985, which is staggering given technological advancements since that time.”
Penk said the building consent system, “which can be complex, unpredictable and costly,” was a key obstacle for improving productivity.
“In most instances obtaining a Code Compliance Certificate relies on a council officer physically inspecting building work on-site to check it complies with the building consent. Builders must book inspections in advance and, if the inspection does not go ahead at the expected time, the building work grinds to a halt.”
According to Penk, remote inspections would reduce the need for inspectors to travel, allow more inspections to take place each day and enable inspectors to work across regions.
“While some councils already use remote inspections, uptake is low, and practices vary across the country.
“There will be some situations where on-site inspections are still needed, for example due to complex construction, lack of internet coverage or where physical testing is needed. However, in many cases remote inspections may be better than traditional on-site inspections as they allow for more accurate record keeping of the build process, which current and future homeowners can refer to.”
The government is calling for feedback from the public as well as from councils which administer the work. Public consultation runs until November 29.
