The new more powerful Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) begins operations today marking a new era of stronger building regulation in Victoria.
The BPC is a single-entry point to Victoria's building system for consumers and for industry, simplifying the system to protect consumers and keep practitioners accountable.
The new regulator brings together the functions of the Victorian Building Authority (VBA), Domestic Building Dispute Resolution Victoria (DBDRV) and the domestic building insurance arm of the Victorian Managed Insurance Authority (VMIA).
This single front door approach is just the first step in strengthening the regulator, with new powers to be brought into force later this year to address gaps in the regulatory system.
The Buyer Protections Bill includes a new power to allow the regulator to act against a builder after the homeowner has moved in, which is when problems are most often discovered.
The BPC's ability to order builders back to fix non-compliances will save consumers time, money and the stress of dealing with defects and the builder on their own.
Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) will be expanded so a claim can be made against all builders when non-compliant, defective work is identified and the builder refuses to fix it. Previously claims could only be made when the builder become insolvent, died or disappeared.
Apartment owners will be better protected with the introduction of a developer bond for buildings four storeys and above, ensuring funds are available quickly to rectify non-compliances post occupancy.
Developers of residential apartment buildings above three storeys will have to notify the BPC before a building is occupied. This will allow the regulator to determine, using data and intelligence, whether a BPC inspection is necessary before the Registered Building Surveyor (RBS) issues an Occupancy Permit (OP).
The new powers which passed the Parliament last month require new regulations before they can be implemented and these will be developed through close consultation with consumer groups and industry in the second half of this year.
Anna Cronin, who has led a major transformation of the VBA's performance and culture since her appointment in July 2023, will lead the BPC as Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer.
The BPC's Consumer & Practitioner Services Centre is available Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5.00pm on 1300 067 088.
Visit the BPC website
