What does that trade logo on your tradie’s website or vehicle mean? What benefit can it provide you, the homeowner? Read on to find out more about national trade accreditations in New Zealand…
Some industry accreditations are mandatory, as government regulations require that certain works must be carried out by a registered tradesperson. If you carry out architecture, electrical, plumbing, gasfitting, drainlaying, and certain building work, without a registered tradie, you risk the health and safety of yourself and your community, plus your home insurance may be void.
Other accreditations are industry-created. The organisation acts as an advocate for the trade to industry and government, but is not required by law. In exchange for membership the tradie agrees to a high standard of work, follow a code of conduct and be trained to a certain level. In case of any dispute customers can bring a complaint about a tradie to the organisation.
Depending on the size and scale of the job you may not require someone with an accreditation. In other cases hiring an accredited tradesperson can give you peace of mind that the work will be done to a high standard and, in some cases, come with a guarantee.
MANDATORY INDUSTRY ACCREDITATIONS
Licensed Building Practitioner
An LPB is a tradesperson certified to work on buildings where the structure or weathertightness is altered. If you are planning building or renovation work you must check if it is Restricted Building Work (RBW). If so, you may require an LBP to do or supervise the work, to ensure the property remains structurally sound and weathertight. It is the homeowner’s responsibility to ensure the people you are using are licenced to do the work. An LBP will have a photo ID licence card and be on the public register.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/builders
Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board
The PGDB is responsible for regulating plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers to ensure anyone undertaking restricted sanitary, plumbing, gas fitting or drain laying work is competent to do so. It sets minimum standards for registration and ensures compliance of all its members with industry regulations and government legislation. All professionals licenced by the PGDB must carry their NZ Practicing Licence card.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/plumbers
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/gasfitters
Electrical Workers Registration Board
All electricians must be registered with the EWRB, to ensure they have up-to-date qualifications, and deal with compliance issues and complaints. All electrical work that exceeds 32 volts a.c. or 100 volts d.c. must be done by a registered electrician.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/electricians
New Zealand Registered Architects Board
The NZRAB is required to register qualified architects, review eact architect’s registration every 5 years, maintain the register of NZ architects and investigate complaints. Members are required to adhere to the Architect’s Code of Ethics.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/architects
VOLUNTARY INDUSTRY ACCREDITATIONS
The following is a list of the principal accreditations in most tradie fields in New Zealand today. The list is by no means exhaustive and Builderscrack recommends researching a tradie and his/her accreditations before agreeing to a contract.
Registered Master Builder
All registered master builders must meet certain criteria before joining, including qualifications, experience, and workmanship. Registered Master Builders provide a 10-year guarantee on all residential work.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/builders
New Zealand Certified Builders Association
NZCB has strict entry criteria, high standards and regular training for their builders. Their work is backed by a 10-year guarantee.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/builders
Master Plumbers
All Master Plumbers undergo quality assurance reviews of their business practices. They have a certifying tradesperson on their team, to supervise restricted work. They also offer a 12-month guarantee. Plumbers, gasfitters and drainlayers may join.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/plumbers
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/gasfitters
NZ Plumbers, Drainlayers and Gas Fitters Association
The NZPDG has been operating since 1894. Members are qualified and are offered training and upskilling by the association.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/plumbers
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/gasfitters
Master Painters
Master Painters is over 100 years old. Members are qualified, professional and uphold a code of practice. They offer a 5-year guarantee on their work.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/painters-and-decorators
Brick and Blocklayers Federation of NZ
The BBFNZ is an industry based membership federation. They set standards in workmanship and customer service for members to follow, and promote training opportunities.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/bricklayers
Registered Master Landscapers
Registered Master Landscapers works to promote high quality, professional work in the landscaping industry. Only those with a high standard of work are accepted. Members must abide by an environmental policy in addition to a code of conduct.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/landscapers
Roofing Association of New Zealand
RANZ members are assessed before admittance to ensure their business and workmanship meet a high standard. Members warranty their services for up to 5 years.
https://builderscrack.co.nz/trades/roofers
Armed with this knowledge you can be more confident in your decision when selecting a tradie to work on your home.
At Builderscrack.co.nz the choice of tradie is always in your hands. Our top quality tradies are reviewed by homeowners like you. With an average job rating of 9/10, you can choose a tradie from Builderscrack.co.nz with confidence.