New plumbing laws that will significantly reduce red tape, delays and costs for industry, local governments and consumers start today (1 November).Housing and Public Works Minister Dr Bruce Flegg said the ‘notifiable work’ reforms expanded the amount of work a plumber or drainer can perform without the need for local government permits or mandatory inspections. “These reforms mark the biggest change to the state’s plumbing and drainage industry in many years,” Dr Flegg said. “It will now be cheaper and faster for most routine work to be performed so it’s a win for everyone. “Previously, plumbing work such as a bathroom or kitchen renovation would have to go through local government approval and inspection processes which could cost up to $1600 and take up to 20 business days just for permits and inspections. “From today, plumbers and drainers simply need to notify the Plumbing Industry Council within 10 business days of completing this type of work and it will cost $25 for an electronic lodgement or $35 for a manual lodgement,” he said. Dr Flegg said the changes have created a new category called ‘notifiable work’. “This category includes most plumbing and drainage work performed in existing homes including kitchen renovations, putting in a new bathroom and extending or altering pipes. “Queenslanders are expected to save up to $25 million on plumbing application fees annually on kitchen and bathroom renovations alone. “The new process replaces the current 73 various processes and requirements across Queensland’s 73 local government areas. “Work will be audited by the Plumbing Industry Council and local governments to ensure that Queenslanders continue to enjoy the current high levels of health and safety standards. “The reforms will allow local governments to arrange inspections as resources allow and to more precisely target their inspect programs towards high-risk areas,” he said. Guidelines, user guides and fact sheets are available for licensees, local governments and consumers at www.hpw.qld.gov.au/notifiablework |
