The Importance of Hiring a Licensed Building Practitioner for Your Project
Building a new home or renovating an existing property is a big investment. That's why it’s absolutely essential to make sure your project is in safe hands. This is where Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) come in.
But what is a licensed building practitioner? And what makes them different from any other builder?
Let’s take a look at the benefits and importance of engaging an LBP to make sure your building journey is smooth, secure, and successful.
What Are Licensed Building Practitioners?
Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) are construction professionals who have been tested, trained and certified as having the right skills and expertise to carry out work, particularly those related to the structure or weathertightness of New Zealand homes. LBPs must meet strict competency standards to show they’re qualified and capable of performing their tasks well.
The New Zealand Government established the LBP scheme to make sure that high standards of building design and construction practices are always being followed and to make sure you have the right team with the right qualifications and skill set to get the job done right the first time around.
Think of an LBP as your trusted advisor. They have the expertise to guide you through the entire building process, from design to completion. With their knowledge of building codes, regulations, and best practices, you can rest assured that your project will be completed safely and to the highest standards.
LBP Code of Ethics
Because all LBPs must comply with the code of ethics, which sets behavioural standards for LBPs, you can be confident that your chosen licensed building practitioner will undertake building work in a safe, legal, and professional way.
If an LBP doesn’t comply with their obligations under the code of ethics, a complaint can be made against them which may result in disciplinary action by the Building Practitioners Board.
The New Zealand LBP code of ethics is made up of the following 4 key principles:
Work safely
This means taking responsibility for the health and safety of themselves and their clients. They’re required to report any unsafe behaviour on a building site and avoid harming the environment as they carry out their work.
Act within the law
LBPs are required to explicitly comply with the law to make sure everything is above board. They also need to report any breaches of the law to the relevant authorities.
Take responsibility for your actions
This means that the LBP needs to be very clear on the building work they are and aren’t allowed to do. They need to be able to clearly explain any risks to their clients and keep them informed and educated on the process, including any delays. LBPs need to be accountable for any building work carried out by themselves or someone under their supervision and always act in their client’s interests.
Behave professionally
LBPs should always act in a way that’s professional and responsible. If there’s ever a dispute, they should act in good faith, starting with pricing work fairly and reasonably. They also need to declare any conflicts of interest and keep client details confidential. This principle also covers the importance of respecting any cultural norms and values of their clients and their teams.
The Benefits of Working with Licensed Building Practitioners
As you can imagine, there are definitely advantages to partnering with LBPs like the team at West & Sons Construction. Some of these include:
Quality Assurance
LBPs are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship. Their in-depth knowledge and experience ensure your project is built to last and withstand the test of time. This gives you the peace of mind that your investment is protected.
Building Code Compliance
Navigating building codes can be complex. LBPs are well-versed in these regulations, working hard to make sure that your project meets all legal requirements. This prevents costly delays and potential issues down the line.
Expertise and Knowledge
The construction industry is constantly changing, and our LBPs are required to participate in ongoing professional development, resitting their licensing assessment every year. This means that they’re across all of the latest knowledge and practices to complete your project properly and efficiently.
Risk Mitigation
Hiring an LBP reduces the risk of structural issues, weathertightness problems, and other expensive mistakes. Their qualifications and insurance provide an added layer of protection for your investment.
Accountability
LBPs are accountable for their work. That means that if any issues arise during or after construction, an LBP is responsible for addressing them. This accountability extends to the licensing body, which can investigate and take action if necessary. This provides a layer of protection for homeowners, ensuring that the builder takes responsibility for their work.
Added Value
While the initial cost might be slightly higher, hiring an LBP often leads to long-term savings as a well-constructed building requires less maintenance and is more energy-efficient overall.
Why You Should Insist on an LBP for Your Project
Building Safety and Durability
One of the main reasons to hire an LBP is to ensure the safety and durability of your building. The skills and knowledge that LBPs bring to the table are essential in creating structures that are safe to live in and that last. This is particularly important in a country like New Zealand, where buildings have to withstand unique environmental challenges such as earthquakes and high winds.
Future-Proofing Your Home
An LBP is not just thinking about the immediate construction but also the long-term usability and sustainability of your building. They can provide advice on materials and methods that will improve the longevity and efficiency of your home, saving you money on maintenance and energy costs in the long run.
Navigating the Consent Process
The building consent process can be complex and time-consuming, but LBPs are familiar with the requirements and can help you easily navigate this process, making sure that all the necessary consents are sorted. This streamlines your project, helping to avoid delays and complications.
Professional Relationships and Resources
LBPs often have established relationships with other professionals in the construction industry, including architects, engineers, and subcontractors. At West & Sons Construction, we’re proud to have a strong network of industry contacts that we work with to manage your project completely from start to finish so you can experience a seamless and stress-free building process.
West & Sons Construction: Your Trusted Team of LBP Builders
At West & Sons Construction, we take pride in our team of highly skilled and experienced LBPs. Our LBPs are skilled in different building areas, which means we can handle all aspects of your project, from foundations to finishings. Here's what sets us apart:
Generations of Family Expertise
With over a 100-year heritage in the construction industry, we have a wealth of knowledge and experience that’s been passed down through the generations. This long-standing tradition means you benefit from a deep well of expertise and a commitment to excellence that spans decades.
Commitment to Quality
As LBPs, we put quality first and foremost. We use only the best materials and craftsmanship to deliver a lasting and beautiful build. Our attention to detail and dedication to superior standards ensure that your project stands the test of time.
Focus on Long-Term Client Satisfaction
We're not just building homes; we're building relationships. Our family ethos and our dedication to excellence means that your complete satisfaction is our goal, from the initial consultation to the finished project. We understand that every project is unique, and we work closely with you to bring your vision to life, ensuring that your needs and expectations are met every step of the way.
At West & Sons Construction, we take pride in our team of skilled and dedicated LBPs who are committed to delivering exceptional results. Whether you’re planning a small renovation or a major construction project, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your building dreams a reality with the expertise and assurance that comes with hiring a licensed building practitioner.