Review to progress key reforms to the Home
Building Contracts Act 1991 and the Building Services (Complaint
Resolution and Administration) Act 2011Survey responses from consumers and industry
stakeholders to shape reformsConsultation Paper to be released early next
year for public commentCook Government committed to delivering sensible
and effective law reform
The
Cook Government has revealed key findings from survey responses that identified
potential improvements to laws protecting Western Australians entering home
building contracts.
Consumers
and building industry participants shared their views as part of a major review
being led by the Hon Dan Caddy MLC to ensure the State’s home building contract
laws remain fit for purpose and safeguard consumers.
A number of insights were gained through the surveys, with the key
message being that the State’s home building contract laws need to evolve to
meet today’s challenges. Other insights include:
better
guidance on rights, obligations and navigating home building
contracts;
clarity on the
Building Commissioner’s role in protecting consumers and supporting
industry;
more pricing transparency,
with half of surveyed consumers reporting price increases after signing a
contract;
current protections
lag behind costs, with financial thresholds capped at $500,000 despite
rising construction prices; and
entitlements to
price increases need to be clearer, and a better balance struck for
neutral delay events such as delayed building approvals and the release of
land titles.
The
feedback will be used to shape important
proposals for reform that will be
presented for public comment in a Consultation Paper early next year.
A
snapshot of the survey findings is available at: www.wa.gov.au/organisation/building-and-energy/review-of-western-australias-home-building-contract-lawsbuilding
contract laws
Comments attributed to Commerce Minister Dr Tony Buti:
“I thank everyone who
took the time to provide vital input into this review. These real-life
experiences with home building contracts, for both consumers and builders, will
help shape reforms that balance protections for homeowners and requirements for
industry.
“Entering a contract for
a new home or renovation is a major commitment, so it is important to have
effective legislation that ensures confidence for all parties in the contract.
“I look forward to
presenting reform options in the new year as part of the Cook Government’s
commitment to robust building regulation and more homes for Western
Australians.”
Comments attributed to Parliamentary Secretary Hon Dan Caddy MLC:
“I am pleased to be
leading this timely review of home building contract laws.
“The valuable feedback
from homeowners and builders through the surveys has reinforced the need for a
more modern and accessible regulatory framework.
“A public consultation
phase early in the new year will provide further opportunities for input on
these important reforms.”