Know the building rules before you try DIY
The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) is urging all do-it-yourself handy men and women who have stocked up on tools to be aware of the rules and regulations that apply to domestic building and plumbing work.
The VBA’s Executive Director of Operations Lynda McAlary-Smith said although some smaller projects can be done yourself, larger and more complicated projects need to be carried out by a professional.
“Making improvements can be an exciting and satisfying process, however, if you are doing any building or renovating work on your home it is important to know when to work with the professionals,” she said.
“Although we love to see the results of our hard work and save money, if the project costs more than $10,000 and involves structural work or two or more specific trade skills, you will need to use a registered building practitioner and enter into a major domestic building contract.”
Licensed and registered builders and plumbers have the training and experience to handle any challenges that come up during renovations and carry out the work safely.
The VBA has a home renovation essentials online hub with guides on a variety of topics including landscaping, projecting adjoining properties, energy efficiency requirements and appointing a building surveyor.
Ms McAlary-Smith said DIY projects can often end up costing more than first thought if things go wrong.
“If you don’t follow the right steps DIY can become expensive and cause more problems down the track, especially if you don’t know what you’re doing, so make a plan before you start,” she said.
To do any plumbing work in Victoria, a plumbing practitioner must be licensed and registered by the VBA and be working under the supervision of or training under a licensed plumber.
Most plumbing work is regulated and requires a professional, such as connecting a gas hot water service or installing a rainwater tank to discharge into a stormwater pipe.
Plumbing maintenance that can be carried out by everyday Victorians is limited to small jobs, such as fixing a leaking tap.
All licensed and registered plumbers are issued with a photo ID card that lists the type of plumbing work they are eligible to do.
Some landscaping can be carried out by anyone, such as planting trees, garden beds, ornamental water features or constructing outdoor furniture.
Other landscaping work, such as fencing or building verandahs and decks attached to your home are considered domestic building work and require a registered building practitioner.
To ensure a project is completed by a practitioner with the necessary qualifications and experience, make sure you always use a registered building or plumbing practitioner.
You can check if a building or plumbing practitioner or company is registered using our find a practitioner directory.
Before starting any job around the home, Melburnians, as well as regional Victorians, should know the rules to do home improvements right the first time.