On 31 May 2018 the VBA issued a media release in which it announced that over 800 builders and developers had received a notice seeking a report on what materials have been specified on their building projects. In particular the VBA is focusing on projects that are about to commence or are in progress, and say this notice is part of its state-wide cladding audit. This appears to have been as a result of a $16.5 million funding the VBA recently received to continue to address non-compliant cladding in the state.

Master Builders has serious concerns about the way in which the VBA is attempting to use their new powers under the Building Act 1993 and would have preferred that industry consultation be adopted in the first instance. Furthermore, this release comes after the notice was issued, which did not give industry stakeholders sufficient time to duly consider the notice to minimise confusion and concern arising from such a sensitive and high-profile issue. Master Builders is further concerned with the VBA possibly overstepping their powers, in particular given the very short timeframe given to respond.

Master Builders recommends that if you have received a notice, that you seek the appropriate advice before responding.

Please see the attached media release here.