One of the first builders to successfully register as a Licensed Building Practitioner was presented with his own “licence to build” by Building and Construction Minister Shane Jones recently.
Mr Jones awarded Craig Shorrock with a Site 2 licence when he visited Mr Shorrock at a home he is repairing in Remuera, Auckland.
More than 8000 application packs have been distributed since the scheme was officially launched on November 1 last year, and the first licenses are now being issued to practitioners who have successfully completed an application in their chosen license class.
The release of licence cards is a major milestone for the new scheme which is intended to raise standards and increase consumer confidence in the building industry.
Mr Jones said it was a pleasure to present Craig with his license. “He is among the first, if not the first, to receive one, and I must congratulate him for being prepared to stand by his skills and experience so that he receives the recognition he deserves,” Mr Jones said.
“I want to take the opportunity to encourage other practitioners of whatever level of skill or experience to complete the form of their chosen licence class and to send it in for assessment.
“This scheme will bring designers and builders in line with many other skilled trades and professions, such as plumbers, architects and electricians who already have similar registration schemes. Consumers will know that these people have the skills, knowledge and experience to build and design right first time.
“I would encourage anyone who is considering building work on their homes and buildings to start asking their builders: ‘Are you licensed?’
“Only in this way can we be sure of building confidence in the sector, and making sure only those who are competent work on our homes and buildings.”
