hunter building news hunter building news
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hunter building news hunter building news
HUNTER BUILDING NEWS ORSTER I GOSFORD I LAKEI MACQUARIE I MAITLAND I CESSNOCK I NEWCASTLE I PORT STEPHENS I SCONE I SINGLETON FORSTER I GOSFORD LAKE MACQUARIE I MAITLAND I CESSNOCK I NEWCASTLE I PORT STEPHENS I SCONE I SINGLETONI WYONG I WYONG Changes to the Home Building Act p6 BCA free online from 2015 p27 Understanding CPD p7 HIA Supporting Small Businesses p14 Magazine of the Housing Industry Association | Hunter Region Issue 4, October 2014 Thank heavens for Halo Integrated window flashing “A brilliant system that saved me 40% on my window installation costs” Breakthrough Innovation 40 Window installation is now a simple 3 step process 1 Install window 2 Fit sarking 3 Clad caulk INKREDIBLE 2206-01 and paint Get all the facts about Halo 1300 943 354 wideline.com.au % Savings on installation Tested Proven Patented DEVILISHLY CLEVER Halo Aquashield™ integrated window flashing is a revolutionary new technology from Wideline that seemlessly melds the window flashing into the window frame. Halo dramatically improves performance and delivers reduced installation costs. • No more leaking windows into the wall cavity • Reduces air leakage = Improved energy performance • Improved finish to window surrounds halves installation time Greg Elsworthy HIA President - Hunter Australia is one of the most highly regulated countries in the world. We have laws, codes and standards for everything we do – the building industry is no exception. What about the products we use to build with? Do all products meet the same standards? it would appear not. The ACCC recently issued a voluntary recall of electrical cable supplied by the Infinity Cable Company between 2010 and 2013 through a range of hardware suppliers. The cables fail the required ageing tests of AS/NZS 5000.2:2006. Tests have shown that the cable insulation may become prematurely brittle, which could cause fires or electric shock if the cables were then disturbed, such as by human or animal activity. While the risk is not imminent, people need to be aware and take careful steps to manage the risk in coming years. The voluntary safety recall means that the suppliers of the cable have agreed to pay the costs of undertaking an inspection of any property where the builder or electrician believes the product has been used. A list of the outlets and dates of sale is available on the ACCC webpage. It is recommended that builders make contact with your electrical contractors to determine whether they are aware of using these cables in any work they have undertaken for you. If they have, then the supplier (hardware outlet) of the cable should be contacted to make arrangements in accordance with the recall procedure. This case unfortunately reinforces HIA’s recent focus on the important issue of ensuring building products and components used in Australia comply with relevant codes and standards. It also confirms that the cost of failure and subsequent replacement of substandard materials – and the damage they can cause - will invariably outstrip any initial savings on the original purchase. In the case of structural materials, sanitary and electrical components particularly, the potential cost to the health and safety of staff or customers is far greater. A HIA Information Sheet regarding this matter is available on the HIA website. Members who have concerns can contact HIA’s Building Services staff in relation to the technical details of the recall or HIA Workplace Services staff in relation to any legal questions. Craig Jennion HIA Executive Director - Hunter Without a doubt over the past ten years the use of social media has evolved. Forums such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and a range of online review platforms, are extensively utilised by businesses as a form of brand positioning and marketing. Social media is often a successful forum for businesses to platform their products and services. However, there is a ‘dark side’ to social media. Social media is now being utilised as a mechanism to vocalise both the good and bad experiences of consumers. The inability of businesses to have control over such comments can be detrimental to a business’s reputation. It is prudent to keep in mind that any content or comment generated regarding competitors, can also be subject to ACCC intervention. For example, if you ‘tweet’ that your business is the first in the industry to deliver a 100% environmentally friendly service without having conducted research to support this claim, and it comes to light that your competitor has in fact been offering this service, you may have engaged in misleading and deceptive conduct. Similarly, if a ‘fan’ of your Facebook page posts untrue comments about a competitor on your page and you know these comments are untrue but do not delete them, you may be held accountable for the fan’s comments. More serious cases could also lead to defamation suits. In order to avoid the potential for an alleged breach through the use of social media and online reviews, members should view the HIA Information Sheet titled The ‘ins’ and ‘outs’ of online reviews: What you need to know, in addition to monitoring their social media sites. I recently established a HIA Hunter Twitter account, should members wish to receive my industry updates, comments or thoughts follow @HIA_Hunter. this issue Executive Director Update 3 Member Profile 4 Apprentices 5 Workplace Services 6 Building Services 12 Home Inspirations 14 Training Services 16 Small Business 17 HIA Shop 19 Economic Update 21 Fresh Face at HIA Insurance 22 Planning Update 23 WorkCover Safety Alert 24 Safety Services 26 Industry News 27 GreenSmart 28 Events 30 FRONT COVER: Finalist 2013 HIA-CSR Hunter Residential Building Designer - Sorensen Design BUILDING NEWS HUNTER PUBLISHED BY Housing Industry Association Limited ACN 004 631 752 17 Murray Dwyer Circuit MAYFIELD WEST, NSW, 2304 Editor Craig Jennion Design & production Jenna Chapman - HIA Hunter Region Advertising enquiries Jenna Chapman - HIA Hunter Region P 02 4014 2000 F 02 4014 2020 E: [email protected] printed by NCP Printing Disclaimer The authors, editors, publishers and their staff and agents are not responsible for the accuracy or correctness of statements made or the information contained in this publication or for the consequence of any use made of the products, plans and information referred to in this publication. All liability of whatsoever nature is expressly disclaimed for any consequences arising from any errors or omissions contained in this publication whether caused to the reader of the publication or otherwise. The views expressed in the articles and other material published herein do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor and publisher or their staff or agents. It is impossible for the publisher and editor to ensure that the advertisements and other material herein comply with the Trade Practices Act 1974. Readers should make their own enquiries in making decisions and, where necessary, seek professional advice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Hunter Building News | 3 MEMBER PROFILE Jenna Chapman Office Administrator - Hunter 5 Minutes with Stephen Murray Y arrum Designer Homes owner Stephen Murray is an accountant by trade having started his working life outside the construction industry. Stephen’s connection with the residential construction industry began in 1993 when he began working as an accountant at Clarendon Homes. "After working at Clarendon Homes for 8 years I became a shareholder in 2001 and was then CEO from 2002 to 2005" Stephen said. In 2005 the business was sold to a publically listed company. Stephen started his own building company in the Hunter Region in 2008, Yarrum Designer Homes. Yarrum Designer Homes mainly build large custom homes and houses that have a large degree of individuality. “We dare to be different and have a real can do approach”, said Stephen. “For example we are currently working with a client to construct an observatory as part of his home where he can teach astronomy to his students.” “Building homes that are different, timeless and have the ‘wow’ factor is what I enjoy most about my work”, said Stephen. “When you are an accountant and you work hard to prepare a tax return it can be a bit demoralising. But when you work hard and provide a great home for people to live in and love, then that’s a pleasure.” Looking back over his career Stephen sees one of his most notable achievements as working at Clarendon Homes, “We had a great team that took a small Penrith based business to being the second largest home builder in Australia." Another notable achievement for Stephen is winning HIA Hunter Home of the Year at the 2012 HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom awards. hard on my exit strategy by upskilling and empowering my staff to make decisions and reward them on their performance within the business." Stephen enjoys spending his down time playing golf, going on holidays and enjoying local food and wine. “All things synonymous with the Hunter Valley!,” says Stephen. Stephen plans to spend less time in the business over the next 5 years. “I’m working PHOTOS: (top right) 2012 HIA-CSR Hunter Home of the Year by Yarrum Designer Homes. (left) Stephen & his wife Amanda at the 2012 HIA-CSR Hunter Housing and Kitchen & Bathroom awards. (above) Projects by Yarrum Designer Homes. 4 | Hunter Building News APPRENTICES WHY TAKE ON AN APPRENTICE? Apprenticeships are an extremely cost effective, efficient and practical wa train your workforce so they have the relevant skills and qualifications to Engaging apprentices offers an excellent return on your investment. You early age, helping to shape their approach to work. Not only can you equ you get the chance to create the ideal employee for your business. THE BENEFITS TO YOUR BUSINESS Bronwyn Carlyle Apprentice Field Officer - Hunter As an employer recruiting an apprentice, you are more likely to: Improve your bottom line Fill your skills gaps Keep up with the latest industry developments Gain a motivated and satisfied worker. The benefits of hosting a HIA Apprentice HOW HIA APPRENTICES CAN HELP Why take on an apprentice? Apprenticeships are an extremely cost effective, efficient and practical way to get an extra set of hands and to train your workforce so they have the relevant skills and qualifications to do the job. Engaging apprentices offers an excellent return on your investment. You can mould your employee from an early age, helping to shape their approach to work. Not only can you equip them with the basic skills needed, you get the chance to create the ideal employee for your business. The benefits to your business As an employer recruiting an apprentice, you are more likely to: • • • • Improve your bottom line Fill your skills gaps Keep up with the latest industry developments Gain a motivated and satisfied worker How HIA Apprentices can help HIA Apprentices offers a simple and easy solution which removes the complexity of apprentice management from your business. Today HIA Apprentices has almost 500 apprentices in training nationally, with over 200 apprentices successfully completed their apprenticeship in 2013. We understand and meet the unique needs of over 350 businesses, just like yours. HIA Apprentices offers a simple and easy solution which removes the com from business. Today HIA Apprentices has almost 500 apprentices • your Leave balances apprentices successfully completed their apprenticeship in 2013. We und • Super of over 350 businesses, just like yours. • TAFE BREAK DOWN OF RATES • WH&S HIA Apprentices offers a cost effective solution to getting the labour you n • Training and mentoring to maximise your businesses output while managing costs. We’re happy • indenture Workersand compensation direct our rates, so you can see that HIA Apprentice is valu hidden charges or on costs. Below is a breakdown of our charge out rate • IR compliance Apprentices charges? You get simplicity and ease; which reduces the co • additional Pastoral care The cost of using HIA is not profit margin, but what we charge Break down of rates HIA Apprentices offers a cost effective solution to getting the labour you need. We understand that you need to maximise your businesses output while managing costs. We’re happy to show the comparison between direct indenture and our rates, so you can see that HIA Apprentice is value for money and that there are no hidden charges or on costs. Below is a breakdown of our charge out rate. What do you get for the 1% HIA Apprentices charges? You get simplicity and ease; which reduces the complexity of having an apprentice. The additional cost of using HIA is not profit margin, but what we charge to provide the following services. We take care of: • • • WE TA To directly employ an apprentice you need to manage the items above. W do in house? By using HIA Apprentices, you’re freed up to do more impo just enjoy some extra free time. To directly employ an apprentice you need to manage the items above. What would this MORE INFORMATION costBronwyn your business to do house? Byhow using Call Carlyle on 0418 688in 137 to discuss we can help. HIA Apprentices, you’re freed up to do more important money making activities…or just enjoy some extra free time. More information Recruitment Administration Wages Call Bronwyn Carlyle on 0418 688 137 to discuss how we can help. First female apprentice for HIA Hunter C onstruction is in Cherie Morton’s blood, so it was understandable that she would pursue a career in the building industry. Cherie’s ambitions are well on track with very favourable reports from both Dixon Homes and Belmont TAFE. After completing thirteen months as an apprentice carpenter with her father’s family business, Cherie realised she needed to broaden her building experience. She had undertaken predominately commercial work embracing concreting, formwork and roof sheeting. However, now with Dixon Homes as her host, she is tackling the residential side of the trade to achieve the training requirements needed in the CertIficate III in Carpentry. When asked what her goals were for the future Cherie replied “I would like to stay with Dixon Homes if they are happy to keep me on. I would also aim to do a construction course or project management course, as well as a Certificate IV in Building and Construction.” 5 | Hunter Building News Recr Adm Wag Leav Supe Tafe WH& Train Work IR co Past Hunter Building News | 5 WORKPLACE SERVICES Luke Winchester Workplace Adviser - Hunter Changes to the Home Building Act I n May this year the review of the NSW Home Building Act 1989 (Act) came to an end with the passing of the Home Building Amendment Bill 2014 (Bill) through the NSW Parliament. In a win for HIA, the Bill introduces a number of positive changes including providing a clear definition of a ‘defect’, a source of much frustration within the industry. The Bill also introduces a number of changes to the mandatory requirements that must form part of a residential building contract. These will be reflected within HIA’s contracts. In addition, on 21 July draft Regulations containing additional changes were released for public comment and include a proposed commencement date for the changes of 1 December 2014. HIA will keep members up-to-date on the commencement of the new laws through eNews and Member Alerts. Please find outlined below further details of some of the key changes. Changes to allowable deposits A deposit of 10% will be permitted for all residential building work. Currently builders can only take 10% where the works are less than $20,000 and 5% where the works are over $20,000. New requirements in relation to progress payments Under the changes a progress payment will only be allowable if the contract: • • provides a progress payment of a specified amount or specified percentage of the contract price that is payable following completion of a specified stage of the work, and describes each progress payment stage in clear and plain language. 6 | Hunter Building News Members will also need to ensure that their contract includes a progress payment schedule, such schedules are currently contained within HIA contracts. Contracts must include ‘termination statement’ While HIA contracts already contain specific provisions relating to the ability of a party to terminate the contract, HIA will update its contracts to comply with this new requirement. duties on • notifying their builder of a defect within 6 months of becoming aware of the defect; and • not unreasonably refusing access to the builder in order to carry out the required rectification works. a Most residential building contracts will need to contain a statement alerting home owners to their general rights in relation to their ability to terminate the contract. The statement will also indicate that the parties may agree to additional circumstances in which the contract may be terminated. Additional owners The Bill provides that a home owner can mitigate their loss by: home A home owner will have a duty to mitigate loss arising from a breach of the statutory warranties; this means that a homeowner now has an express obligation to prevent alleged defective work causing avoidable damage. New defence to a breach of the statutory warranties Builders will be able to defend a breach of a statutory warranty if the claim arises from reasonable reliance by the builder on written instructions provided by a person who is a relevant professional acting for the home owner. These instructions can be provided before or after the work was done. A relevant professional would include an architect or an engineer who has been engaged by the home owner. This is in addition to the existing defence which enables a builder to rely on written instructions given to a home owner prior to carrying out works warning that those works are non-compliant. A clearer definition of a ‘defect’ As mentioned above the definition of a ‘structural defect’ has been the source of much confusion and uncertainty within the industry, a home owner having 6 years within which to claim for a breach of statutory warranty on the basis of such defective work. As a result of the amendments, the 6 year statutory warranty period will now apply to ‘major defects’ which occur in a major element of a building. A major element includes: • internal or external load bearing components of a building that are essential to the stability of a building, or any part of it, • fire safety systems, and • waterproofing HIA is hopeful that this new definition will provide greater certainty for the industry, ultimately helping to resolve disputes in relation to alleged defective work. New limitation on owner builder work Concerns over the use of owner-builder permits for commercial purposes has seen the introduction of a limitation on the granting of these permits in relation to dual occupancy work. Such permits will only be issued where Fair Trading is satisfied that special circumstances exist such as, where a family could demonstrate legitimate noncommercial reasons for the work. At the time of writing, the Regulations had only been released in draft form however they propose the following key changes: Powers of Fair Trading • Increasing the threshold for when you require a small works contract from $1,000 to $5,000. • Increasing the threshold for when you require a fully compliant contract from $5,000 to $20, 000. • Increasing the threshold for requiring a license to complete residential building work from $1,000 to $5,000. • An exemption from the requirement to obtain Home Warranty Insurance (insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund) for contractors who enter into contracts only to complete built-in furniture and cabinetry work (including kitchen cabinetry). Changes under the Bill will provide NSW Fair Trading with the ability to, amongst other things, cancel a contractor license in the event of non-compliance with a Fair Trading rectification order. Fair Trading will also have the power to impose a jail sentence in certain circumstances, for example, where a builder repeatedly fails to take out Home Warranty Insurance (HWI), including failure to take out HWI for works carried out for owner builders above $20,000. Changes to Home Warranty Insurance Members should be aware that Home Warranty Insurance will be known as Insurance under the Home Building Compensation Fund. As mentioned above the commencement of these changes is proposed for early December 2014. Until then it is business as usual - HIA will advise members when the commencement date is confirmed. Workplace Services Q and A Q: I have never been involved in a serious dispute before, but now I have a client threatening to take me to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (Tribunal) for defective work? What should I do, or what should I expect? A: Despite the best efforts of builders and contractors, it takes both parties to resolve a dispute and unfortunately at times you may have clients who are unwilling to do anything other than take a claim straight to the Tribunal or the courts. have preconceived notions that as experts in their field, contractors should understand and comply with all aspects of building and constructions laws, codes and standards. Most disputes about defective work in the Tribunal require each party to obtain independent expert advice, usually in the form of a building report. I spoke with Craig Hutchinson, director of Craig’s Building Advisory Services and a building consultant with experience in over 150 Tribunal or court submitted building reports for his opinion. “This situation is at times exacerbated by initial legal advice where the person giving the advice does not understand the technical aspects of the claim” says Craig. “It is imperative that any contractor who receives a claim against them or their company obtain prudent advice as to the best method of dealing with the claim” says Craig. Craig believes builders and contractors must also be mindful that in the Tribunal or the courts they may be disadvantaged as Tribunal members and judges sometimes In most instances, it is best for builders and contractors to make a commercial decision when dealing with a claim and not let emotions blind them of the chances of successfully dealing with a claim. It is quite common for the cost of litigation to vastly exceed the amount of the claim being made. As a HIA member, Craig is happy to provide discounted rates to members, and encourages members to call him free of charge on 4963 4343 for an initial consultation about a defect dispute. Hunter Building News | 7 Underperforming employees: how to reduce the risk of unfair dismissal claims H IA is often asked for advice about how to deal with unfair dismissal claims brought by former employees who were dismissed for poor performance. A misconception amongst many employers is that you only need a ‘valid’ basis for firing or dismissing the employee. However even gross incompetence may not be enough. In order to successfully defend an unfair dismissal claim, or more hopefully prevent the circumstances of a claim arising, it is important that your business have in place clear processes and procedures to issue appropriate warnings to poorly performing employees and provide them opportunities to improve. When will a dismissal be “unfair”? rather than directly addressing it, not only impacts on productivity and workplace morale but may expose you to a greater risk of unfair dismissal claims. For instance if your employee has been doing the same job for a long time without criticism or warning the view may be taken that your business did not in fact expect a certain level of performance from the employee. A number of practical steps can be implemented within your business to manage underperformance: • In the first instance, you should identify the performance issues in question (including the dates on which it occurred, what took place and witnesses present); • Have a formal meeting with the employee. However, make sure that you do not ambush the employee with the meeting – advise them of the purpose of the meeting beforehand, and invite them to have a support person from your business present. At the meeting you should: An unfair dismissal will occur when an employee has been dismissed from their job in a ‘harsh, unjust or unreasonable manner’. In addition to considering whether there was a valid reason for termination, the Fair Work Commission will also examine whether the employee was “fairly” treated in a procedural sense. For instance: • Was your employee given prior notice of the actual performance issues in question? • Did they have an opportunity to respond to the issues raised regarding their performance? • Did they have a reasonable opportunity to improve their performance? It is also important that a fair and transparent performance management process is utilised so that the reasons for the dismissal are clear. Your processes do not need to be overly complex or convoluted but the key thing is to be able to demonstrate that your employee was afforded procedural fairness and that the termination was not arbitrary. • How should performance issues be dealt with? If your employee is not meeting the expectations of their position then it is important that you communicate your concerns directly with that employee. Allowing poor performance to fester and continue • provide the employee with an opportunity to respond to the performance issues which have been raised and clarify why their performance has been below expectations. For example, there may be circumstances that you do not know about, e.g. an illness or other personal circumstances; • detail what needs to be done to improve work performance, as well as what you can do as an employer to reasonably accommodate or assist the employee; and • set a timeframe within which an improvement in work performance needs to occur If your employee is given a formal warning then this should be followed up with written correspondence to this effect, and which should also reiterate the timeframes for improvement, the plan for improvement, as well as the consequences to the employee if there is no improvement in work performance (e.g., further disciplinary action including termination). Your role as manager A key task as manager is to identify the reasons for underperformance: • Did your employee clearly know what was expected of them, including key deadlines etc.? • Do they have the proper skills sets to perform the role in the first place, and if not is it possible to upskill them? • Have they been able to get away with poor performance in the past without being disciplined? Are other employees being treated differently? Proceeding to termination If your employee’s performance does not improve then they should be advised to this effect. Depending upon the circumstances of the given case, the above process may be repeated, and the performance management plan may need to be adjusted. Ultimately, if you come 8 | Hunter Building News to the conclusion that termination is appropriate then you should invite your employee to a formal meeting to advise them of this, offer them the opportunity to have a support person present, and give clear reasons for your decision to terminate. After the termination meeting, your employee should be provided with a letter formally stating the reasons for the termination. 10 YEARS AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE ROOFING FASTENER TURNS 10! New improvements make ROOFZIPS ® patented design even better! It is also important to ensure that appropriate records are kept demonstrating the performance management process. For example, you should detail specific meetings which you have with the underperforming employee in order to record what was discussed and what the outcome of those discussions were, and retain copies of any formal letters of warning sent to them. Small business employers A small business employer (defined as an employer with 15 or less employees based on a simple headcount) is able to utilise the Small Business Fair Dismissal Code. The Code provides protection against unfair dismissal claims, where an employer follows the Code. The Commission will deem a dismissal to be fair if the employer follows the Code and can provide evidence of this. The Code consists of a checklist of 10 questions that clarifies the size of the business, the role the employee had in the business and the reasons and circumstances surrounding the dismissal. It ensures that the employee received adequate warning and counselling prior to the dismissal. NEW Patented design prevents washer r ‘spewing’ out from under screw head. So o look for sealing the red stripe for reliable sealin ng and less rework on every job. & CORROSION O RROSION O O N PR PROT OT ECTION ECT T ON Australian made, fully backed ba acked by our ® Buildex® warranty. Unique S Shankguard hankguard g & HiGrip® features plus Cl Climaseal limaseal® 4 or 5 coating provides Class 4 or better protection. corrosion protec ction. MAKES EVERY JOB LOOK GREAT High quality head painting matched to Colorbond® roof sheet colours. THE POINT IS THE DIFFERENCE ROOFZIPS® patented design simplifies installation saving you time & money. Fasten roof sheeting to timber battens, thin metal battens and steel purlins up to 1.5mm thick. Available in 25, 50 & 65mm screw lengths. 14 PTEMBER 20 SE AVAILABLE 36 8 10 1 or u call 130 0 .au bu ild ex .c om visit ww w. samples ee fr for For more information, call your Workplace Adviser on 1300 650 620. Want free safety advice tailored to your business? Join WorkCover’s house construction mentor program. This free program connects small builders with mediumlarge builders to address common health and safety issues. To find out how the program can benefit your business, visit workcover.nsw.gov.au/mentor or call 13 10 50. Working safely makes good business sense and can help you save time and money. WC01514 Hunter Building News | 9 HR Docs just a click away G ood employee management is at the very core of any business’s success. But the legalities and paperwork load associated with hiring and firing staff – and everything in between - are often costly, time consuming, and somewhat daunting for the small business owner. While HIA Workplace Advisers have always been available to provide information and help on recruitment, management and other HR issues for our members, we are now offering HR Docs powered by HR Advance - a brand new service designed to simplify and streamline your HR management. HR Docs is an extensive online library of HRspecific documents – ranging from letter templates and employment contracts, to workplace policies which can be customised to your business’s requirements. The documents are written and created by specialist industrial relations lawyers from Australian Business Lawyers & Advisers, and are continuously reviewed and updated. So how does HR Docs powered by HR Advance work? The documents can be purchased through HIA Workplace Services individually or in kits as the need arises, or members can pay a twelve-month subscription fee for continuous access to the documents. The documents fall into three categories: • HR agreements – for example engagement letter, contract of employment, and deed of release • Kits of HR documents – all the documentation you need for management areas such as flexible work arrangements, payroll, parental leave, or performance management • HR policies for your workplace – these can be purchased individually or in bundles of five or ten, and cover areas such as attendance and absenteeism, leave, equal opportunity and first aid HR Docs operates with the full support of HIA’s Workplace Advisers who can provide help, information and advice to members on all HR-related matters. Workplace Advisers can also assist members by advising them which documents are best suited to their particular requirements and facilitate the purchase of the correct documents. For a discounted member rate, HIA can also customise agreements and policy documents purchased from HR Docs with members’ details and logos. Subscribers to HR Docs can select and customise documents themselves at any time, and as often as needed. Subscribers can also access help and advice from an HIA Workplace Adviser. HR Docs is a flexible, convenient and costeffective system, designed to save HIA members time and money by offering unprecedented access to professional, legally-compliant, customisable HR documentation. Created to accommodate the HR requirements of small to medium businesses, HR Docs powered by HR Advance provides HIA members with everything they need to recruit and manage good staff. For more information on how to make HR Docs powered by HR Advance work for your business, call your HIA Workplace Adviser on 1300 650 620. HIA Business Assist Is managing your people becoming a hassle? Is your business up-to-date with the latest Australian employment laws? Do you need employment advice? Dealing with day-to-day workplace relations and HR matters can be time consuming, complicated and risky. However, employing a dedicated experienced HR resource can be costly. Introducing HIA HR docs – a comprehensive HR document library designed to help you access compliant contracts, letters, templates, policies, forms and checklists quickly and easily, with complete confidence. Through HR docs our friendly team of qualified workplace advisers can now offer you an extensive range of support and assistance to help you manage your HR needs. Regardless of your business size, HIA has your HR solution. Purchase a single document or a full subscription – it’s up to you. let HIA be your HR solution For full details contact your local workplace adviser on 1300 650 620 or go to hia.com.au/hrdocs HIA HR docs is powered by TM 10 | Hunter Building News CERTIFIED BY Y Australian Business ss Lawyers & Advisors rs . GEN . 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Entry is only open to Australian residents who are aged 18 years, or older, who purchase genuine COLORBOND® steel products for personal, private or domestic use, or for use in a small business, with the total annual revenue less than AU$2 million (exc. GST) to the value of at least $1,500 (material only – excludes installation) on or after 01/01/14 and from a participating COLORBOND ® steel supplier and/ or installer (Eligible Consumer). Entry also open to Australian residents who are aged 18 years, or older, who supply and/or install genuine COLORBOND ® steel products in Australia (Eligible Supplier/Installer). Eligible Consumers must register at COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN during the Promotion Period. Proof of purchase required. Eligible Supplier/Installers must register at COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN from 01/09/14 and before 01/05/2015. One Entry per person. The Promoter is BlueScope Steel Ltd (ABN 16 000 011 058) Level 11, 120 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000. For all enquiries call 1800 732 704. Authorised under: NSW Permit No. LTPS 14/05439, ACT Permit No. TP14/02417, VIC Permit No. 14/4619, SA Permit No. T14/1247. Minor Prizes, Survey Prizes and Major Prize: Eligible Consumers: Minor Prize: Three $2,000 cash prizes x 15 (each fortnight), total value $90,000. Minor prize draws will take place on 15/10/14, 29/10/14, 12/11/14, 26/11/14, 10/12/14, 24/12/14, 07/01/15, 21/01/15, 04/02/15, 18/02/15, 04/03/15, 18/03/15, 01/04/15, 15/04/15 and 29/04/15. Survey Prize is a $2,000 cash prize randomly drawn on 08/05/15 from the Market Research Survey Registration database where Eligible Persons may be asked to complete an optional Market Research Survey on registration to be eligible to win the Survey prize. Major Prize is $150,000 cash, randomly drawn from the Consumer Registration database at 11.15am AEST on 08/05/2015. First valid Eligible Consumer entry drawn will receive Major Prize. Major Prize for Eligible Supplier/Installers is $100,000, to be determined by the participating and pre-registered Eligible Supplier/Installer nominated on the form of the Eligible Consumer that wins the Major Prize on 08/05/2015. Draws at Building 6, 41-43 Burke Rd, Alexandria NSW. Minor, Survey and Major Prize winners will be notified by phone, email or mail and published on website COLORBOND.COM/GENUWIN and in The Australian within 2 days of the applicable draw. 1. Warranty subject to application and eligibility criteria. For full terms and conditions and to determine the eligibility of your building for the warranty visit BLUESCOPESTEEL.COM.AU/WARRANTIES or call BlueScope on 1800 800 789. 2. Thermatech ® technology is not available in the colour Night Sky ® and is not available in COLORBOND ® Stainless steel. COLORBOND ®, Thermatech ®, BlueScope and the BlueScope brand mark are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. Activate™ is a trade mark of BlueScope Steel Limited. © 2014 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. BUILDING SERVICES David Lawrence Senior Building Services Advisor - NSW Compliant building products Suitability of Materials “Every part of a building must be constructed in an appropriate manner to achieve the requirements of the Housing Provisions, using materials that are fit for the purpose for which they are intended.” the BCA. Using only compliant products is essential for BCA and certification approval. • • • • • • • • • Fit for Purpose Manufacturers of building products design them to be ‘fit for purpose’ so they deliver the performance required in the intended application. This means it is essential to not only read the manufacturers installation instructions but also follow them to the letter. All the components that go to make up a building need to be ’fit for purpose’ including: • • • • • • • • • • • • • concrete and reinforcing steel (mesh and bar) structural grade timber, nails and fixings structural steel steel framing strappings, bracing and tie down fixtures masonry, aerated concrete panels, and lightweight wall systems plaster and tiles windows and glazed doors balustrading roofing and wall claddings doors & windows plumbing and electrical products flooring products Many of these product areas are covered by Australian Standards that are referenced by 12 | Hunter Building News Plumbing and Drainage Products - are required to have a WaterMark on them which indicates that the product conforms with the Plumbing Code of Australia and AS 3500 National Plumbing Code. The WaterMark trademark must be placed directly onto the product. • Water fittings and fixtures including taps, showerheads, toilets, flow controllers, clothes washers and dishwashers must be registered, rated and labeled according to the requirements of the WELS Standard AS/NZS 6400:2005. This provided evidence of the water efficiency of the product and is shown in ‘stars’. • Electrical products , since 2012, a new regulation came into effect, which states that an electrical product will only be required to have the one mark, the Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM) Fit for Purpose Benefits These words from the BCA make it clear that using compliant materials is essential for compliance. The ‘requirements of the Housing Provisions’ are covered by meeting the performance requirements in the following areas: Structural Adequacy Damp and Waterproofing Fire Safety Health and Amenity Safe Movement and Access Energy Efficiency • • • Ensures you are fulfilling your legal obligations by conforming with building regulations Maintains a safe building for workers and future occupants Minimises rectification work where material failure can occur Minimises potential litigation claims arising from the use of non-conforming products If you don’t comply with the BCA you put your license at risk and you put the home owner at risk Using only compliant products protects your reputation and your business, saving you time and money! Evidence of Compliance There are a number of product areas where the manufactures have introduced labelling systems to make the compliance more obvious including: • Windows and doors - All window manufacturers must comply with AS 2047 and all residential windows and glazed doors must be marked with a Performance Label that confirms conformance. Tips for Using Compliant Products • Know what standards apply to products for compliance Ensure the supplier understands what products you require and that they must be compliant with the required standards Purchase products from reputable manufacturers and suppliers that you can develop a long term relationship with Purchase products from companies that participate in industry accreditation programs Check new products for compliance before you purchase them • • • • • • • Check the authenticity of any evidence provided, especially with imported products Check the goods when they arrive on site to ensure there has been no substitution Discuss the use of any client supplied products before work starts and get evidence they comply Test & Tag Colours SEPTEMBER OCTOBER Discuss any supply and install contracts with your subcontractors to make sure they are using compliant products. NOVEMBER For assitance with technical matters contact David Lawrence on 1300 650 620. DECEMBER Just Ask with David Lawrence! Q: There is a NSW variation in the BCA that states that you cannot use an out of ground pool wall as a pool barrier. In all circumstances is this always the case? A: In March of 2014 the department of Local Government released Practice Note 17, Application of Section 22 of the Swimming pools Act 1992. This means that an exemption may be granted if the out of ground pool wall provides no less effective than the requirements of the Act for limiting access. Q: Can I use chicken wire to reinforce a tile bed? A: No! ‘Chicken wire’ can be used to provide an improved key, but should not be used in place of reinforcement. Welded wire mesh should comply with AS/NZS 4671. It should have a mesh size between 25 × 25 mm and 75 × 50 mm and should be fabricated with wire of between 1.2 mm and 2.0 mm diameter. Also the mesh should be galvanized in accordance with AS/NZS 4534. Fixings for wire should be austenitic stainless steel, i.e. 300 series. Q: What determines the bracket mounting centres for eaves gutters? A: The BCA states; “Eaves gutters must be supported by brackets securely fixed at stop ends and at not more than 1.2 m centres.” While this is the maximum distance, each product manufacturer will have a determined distance in their installation specifications and this must be followed. BUILDING OR RENOVATING IN A MINE SUBSIDENCE DISTRICT? Phone your nearest office for advice on: Surface development guidelines Housing and construction techniques Mine subsidence issues Subdivision of land NEWCASTLE 4908 4300 SINGLETON 6572 4344 WYONG 4352 1646 24 Hour Emergency Service FREE CALL 1800 248 083 [email protected] • www.minesub.nsw.gov.au 11449 • • • • Quality ISO 9001 Putting service and the needs of PeoPle first Hunter Building News | 13 HOME INSPIRATIONS Laurence Antcliff Home Inspirations Coordinator - Hunter HIA Show attracts thousands T he second Building & Renovation Show of 2014 was held on Saturday 13th September and proved to once again be a great success. The perfect spring day saw over 5,000 consumers come through the doors. The show has always been a family-friendly event and this year was no different with lots of children’s entertainment including a 2 story play maze, face painting and guest appearances by Prime Possum and The Ranbuild Man. HIA Executive Director, Craig Jennion said, “We have had an overwhelming day with great crowds and a really positive response to all the activities that were on offer”. The Lions Club barbeque was again popular with the team selling more then expected with all proceeds donated to the charity. Tasty Trucks and The Bean Machine moile cafe were also onsite for consumers looking hungry and thirsty consumers. The event featured live product demonstrations, an “Ask an Expert” area where visitors could ask questions with an interior designer, builder, bathroom renovator and land developer or alternatively visit the complimentary colour consultant’s courtesy of Bristol. The greatest drawcard on the day was the Suncoast Bathroom Renovations display with the prize barrel being the busiest location in the centre. All attendees had the opportunity to go into the draw for the major prize that was drawn on the day, a $15,000 bathroom renovation package. The winner of the prize was for the first time on site for the draw and was ecstatic with her win. Sheree and Greg Doodson of Suncoast Bathrooms look forward to working with the prize winner on her bathroom renovation. As always the HIA Building & Renovation Show brings together a sensational group of exhibitors to showcase the latest trends in renovation, building, home improvements and outdoor living. HIA is pleased to be able to offer this type of event in the Hunter as it showcases what is possible in the housing industry using local builders and suppliers. We would like to thank all that attended for their support and we look forward to planning the next show which will be held in May 2015. For further details regarding the Hunter Home Inspirations centre visit www. housinglocal.com.au. ABOVE: HIA Hunter Regional Executive Director Craig Jennion, Sheree and Greg Doodson from Suncoast Bathrooms and Laurence Antcliff, HIA Home Inspirations Coordinator. 14 | Hunter Building News Home Inspirations – The ‘Hub’ where builders meet clients T he HIA Home Inspirations centre is home to a fantastic range of building materials, suppliers, home design concepts and great ideas. Both clients and builders can use the Home Inspirations centre as a meeting ‘hub’ to gain inspiration and begin forming ideas and concepts for new dwellings, renovations & additions. Anything from initial design concepts, product selection or those final product touches such as door furniture, paint finishes and pavers, the HIA Home Inspirations centre aims to be a one-stop-selection-shop. Have you considered meeting with your clients at the Home Inspirations centre to engage in the selection process and pour over plans? You can use our brochure request cards to mark the client’s choices as you make your way around the centre, sit and discuss plans at one of our table and chair meeting hot spots located throughout the centre and at the end both you and your client can then take home brochure information on the selected materials. What a great way to build good ‘client-builder’ relationships and ensure smooth communications between both parties. The HIA Home Inspirations centre makes it easy for dreams to become reality for clients, as concepts can be easily visualised by both parties and design features agreed upon easily to finalise plans. We have a break out area on the ground floor which exhibitors use often to meet with consumers to discuss colour selections for upcoming projects. Throughout the Home Inspirations centre we also have designated areas for exhibiters to meet with clients. Open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm and 10.00am to 4.00pm Saturday and Sunday, why not book a time with your client today to meet at the HIA Home Inspirations centre – Newcastle’s ‘Hub’ where builders meet clients. For a list of our Home Inspirations centre Exhibitors visit HIA’s consumer website www.housinglocal.com.au New showroom in HIA centre 20% OFF ALL PRODUCTS LIMITED TIME www.completeblindsnsw.com.au Hunter Building News | 15 TRAINING SERVICES Nina Sainsbury Training Coordinator - Hunter Understanding Contracts T he Understanding Contracts course provides all of the important information for using HIA contracts. The course is interactive and participants are able to ask the HIA Hunter Workplace Adviser, Luke Winchester questions or scenarios that are unique to their business situation. This course also encompasses the large range of different contracts that HIA offers, plus some of the general legal aspects that are involved with contracts such as licensing and engaging contractors Our next Understanding Contracts course is schedule for: Date: 28th November 2014 Time: 8.30am -12.45pm Location: Mayfield West To register visit www.hia.com.au or for more information contact Nina on 4014 2000 or email: [email protected]. Some of the courses for the remainder of 2014 can be seen in the below calendar. UPCOMING TRAINING Training Location CPD points Professional Development Workshops Date Time Newcastle 4 15 October 8.30am - 12.45pm Central Coast 4 24 October 8.30am - 12.45pm Newcastle 4 14 November 8.30am - 12.45pm Wet Area Waterproofing Newcastle 14 16 & 17 October 9.00am - 5.00pm each day Safety testing & inspecting for electrical equipment Newcastle 6 7 November 9.00am - 5.00pm Central Coast 6 27 November 9.00am - 5.00pm Newcastle 12 10 October 8.30am - 3.30pm Newcastle 12 5 December 8.30am - 3.30pm 26 November 8.00am - 3.00pm Asbestos Awareness HIA Supported Training Provide First Aid - HLTAID003: Provide first aid This training requires some work to be completed prior to attending class. Nationally Recognised Training General Induction for Construction - CPCCOHS1001A: Work Safely in the construction Industry 16 | Hunter Building News Newcastle 12 SMALL BUSINESS INFORMATION SERIES Business basics Don’t know your VOIP from your USP? HIA has a series of practical guides to help members become business all-rounders. Business Information Series – a set of guides and infosheets aimed specifically at the needs of business operators in the housing industry. Do you feel like some days you’re a builder, other days you have to be an advertising executive? Or an accountant? IT expert? Today’s small business owners wear many hats as they juggle the multitude of tasks required to drive success in an increasingly competitive marketplace. The guides take a comprehensive look at a range of topics that HIA members find challenging, or are currently unable to access relevant information on. They’re designed to provide you with accessible, useable tips and techniques for generating effective marketing strategies and more efficient business systems. Recognising the challenges facing its members, HIA has put together the Small The series broadly covers four main areas. These include: • • • • clients; managing email; implementing VOIP; record-keeping; and writing effective marketing and business plans. Importantly, the guides include practical tools such as checklists, contact lists, worksheets and case studies, enabling you to easily apply your new-found knowledge and strategies directly to your business. marketing and communication business planning management systems business systems Within each area, the guides and infosheets take you through, in a clear, simple, stepby-step format, specifics such as accounting concepts; how to measure and monitor ‘promises to pay’; customer service basics; the do’s and don’t’s of communicating with So if you want to know how to make SWOTs and PESTLEs work harder for your business, visit hia.com.au/sbg or contact your local HIA office to find out more about the Small Business Information Series. contracts online produce your contracts the fast, simple and secure way online Whether you are a small business needing a few contracts or a medium-tolarge business with many contracts, you can now create all your hard copy contracts online. There are heaps of features like customising and personalising your contracts, creating templates, secure storage, unlimited and instant downloads. Plus as legislation changes, you can be assured that the contracts are always up-to-date. ‘A process that used to take a staff member 15 minutes has been reduced to 1-2 minutes per job’ You can also get integrated and have your business system talking directly with HIA Contracts Online which means you’re no longer entering the same information into different systems. Jeremy Bree, Henley Properties, Victoria Contracts Online takes the hassle out of managing contracts so you can focus on running your business. Get online today! To get contracts online jump on to hia.com.au/contracts Or to get integrated call 1300 650 620 3026_HIA_CO_BN_HP.indd 1 4/06/14 2:06 PM Hunter Building News | 17 The building industry’s insurance broker Why HIA insurance services? • Industry experience. We are a joint venture between Aon, Australia’s largest and most experienced residential construction insurance broker, and the Housing Industry Association. call us now • Tailored solutions. Our policies provide comprehensive cover, based on the knowledge we have gained over 20 years about what can go wrong for builders and tradespeople. NSW 1300 200 201 With over 20,000 building and trades customers nationally we develop insurance that addresses the real needs and risks of the building industry. This may include cover for home warranty, tools and equipment, motor insurance, contract works, public and products liability, sub-contractor and trades liability, workers compensation, income protection and professional indemnity, commercial property insurance. • Fast and efficient service. With 80 staff located in HIA offices in every state of Australia, we are ready to assist you when you need it. HIAIS0013 0513 To request a quote or discuss your insurance needs, contact HIA Insurance Services today. HIA Insurance Services Pty Ltd ABN 84 076 460 967 as authorised representative number 275925 for Aon Risk Services Australia Limited ABN 17 000 434 720 AFSL 24114. QLD 1800 633 467 VIC 1300 554 227 WA 1300 800 801 SA 1300 600 601 ACT 1300 400 401 TAS 1300 500 501 or visit hiainsurance.com.au HIA SHOP Samantha Tull Receptionist & Stationery Officer Prepare for the future with a HIA Home Owner’s Manual A ll too often HIA members are dragged into defect disputes where the cause of the defect isn’t arising from the builder’s workmanship, but rather damage caused by a lack of maintenance from the home owner. The problem for members is that over a warranty period of 6 years, it can be difficult to prove this, and the home owner will proceed with a claim for defective work regardless. OWNER/S: SITE ADDRESS: the complete home owner’s manual Earlier in this edition HIA Hunter Workplace Adviser Luke Winchester wrote about defect disputes in the Tribunal and the cost and effort involved with defending claims. However, for any dispute prevention is the best cure and the HIA Home Owner’s Manual is a document that sets out to achieve that. The most important part of the Manual simply explains to home owners what to expect with their new home or renovation and things they can do to help maintain the works and prevent issues from occurring. This can assist the builder in two ways; first, by explaining to home owners that small problems such as cracks and chips may not be necessarily defects, and can be caused by the slab settling or seasonal changes that affect the home. Second, the Manual can explain ways the home owner can maintain the home to prevent defects from occurring at a later date and a dispute arising. The Home Owner’s Manual has another important function with a carbon copy inspection form at the back. While a builder has no legal obligation to inspect the home with the home owner, it can help to prevent issues from coming up at a later date. The Manual allows for both parties to inspect the home together in structured manner and place ticks against various areas of a standard home. Once completed and signed, each party receives a copy of the list and the builder is tasked with making the small repairs during the defect liability period (13 weeks in NSW HIA contracts). Because any issues the home owner has are complete and quantified, it becomes difficult for the home owner to make further claims at a later date. The builder can keep the carbon copy inspection form and use it as evidence if Fair Trading or the Tribunal is ever involved in a dispute. It can be used to prove that at the time the builder left site, both parties agreed that the home contained no defects, and may help prove that the issue was caused by wear and tear or an action by the home owner. It may not absolve the builder on its own, but when used properly the Manual is a fantastic preventative tool. To purchase Home Owner's Manuals please call HIA Shop on 02 4014 2000. Do you use a HIA trade contract with your sub-contractors? A s a builder, when you engage a sub-contractor to perform works you should ensure that the agreement is put in writing in a legally binding contract. Too often builders are left to fend for themselves when all they have to rely on is a hand written quote from a sub-contractor or the builder’s invoices doesn’t include terms and conditions. Each trade contract comes in a pad of 20 with each individual contract carbon copied so both parties can receive a copy quickly and easily. Both the Project and Period Trade Contracts also require a subcontractor to make a declaration that they are licensed (if required) and hold necessary insurances such as public liability, worker’s compensation or personal sickness and accident insurance. To assist members, HIA produces Project Trade Contracts and Period Trade Contracts. Both documents achieve the same purpose, which is to place the agreement between the builder and the sub-contractor in writing, with some template terms and conditions to ensure quality of work and prompt payment. The template terms and conditions on the back of the one page contract are also important. They state that the sub-contractor must provide a warranty on their work as well as a defect liability period that is agreed to between the parties. They also confirm that the sub-contractor must abide by all safety regulations as well as being responsible for any damage they may cause to the site or otherwise. While both contracts achieve this purpose, they are structured differently based on how the sub-contractor is engaged. A Project Trade Contract is used for each individual project the sub-contractor performs work on, while a Period Trade Contract is used when the sub-contractor performs work over a period of time. 19 | Hunter Building News To buy a pad of 20 Project or Period Trade Contracts, please call HIA Shop on 02 4014 2000. Hunter Building News | 19 On the hunt for a new vehicle? We’ve got just the thing for you ... Everything you need to get some wheels for your business HIA Vehicles will: ° Find the right vehicle for you ° Help with the financing ° Sort out your insurance Provide you with any additional services ° you require during the life of your vehicle Your hunt is over. Call HIA Vehicles today for more information. Any vehicle, any where, any time. Call 1300 650 776 or visit hiavehicles.com.au WE ARE WORKING TOGETHER HIA and Bupa are working together to offer you and your family the benefits of health insurance including: ° gap free general dental and physio for kids up to the age of 25 at Members First Providers on selected covers* ° no excess on hospital cover for kids under 25** ° keep your mind and body active with some great member discounts on things like gym memberships, movie vouchers and theme park entry. Visit bupa.com.au/memberexclusives for more information. Call 134 135 and quote ID 2083473 Email [email protected] Visit bupa.com.au/corporate username: hia and password: health *Gap free general dental and physiotherapy is available on Ultimate Corporate Health Cover and Corporate Advantage and Corporate Classic covers (gap free general dental only on Platinum Visitors Cover) when taken with hospital cover on a family membership, when treatment is provided by a Members First dentist or physiotherapist. Major dental only available in VIC and SA, excludes orthodontics and hospital treatments. Annual limits, waiting periods and fund rules apply. Child dependants only. **No excess for kids is available on selected covers, including Corporate Hospital Top, Corporate Hospital Intermediate and Platinum Visitors Cover with excess on family memberships. Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590. 115640514P 20 | Hunter Building News HIA ECONOMICS GROUP Housing Scorecard: NSW surges up the league table T he Housing Industry Association recently released our biannual Housing Scorecard report. The HIA Housing Scorecard report benchmarks the performance of fourteen key indicators of activity in residential building against long term averages in each state and territory. This analysis is aggregated in a scoring system to generate a league table ranking the relative strength or weakness of residential building conditions in each jurisdiction. Western Australia has once again topped the rankings, remaining the strongest residential building market in the country, ahead of New South Wales. There is daylight between the two strongest states and the rest of the pack. Amongst the other states, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria and the Northern Territory are clustered closely together in the middle of the pack. South Australia and Queensland are still just off the pace, but there were some improvements in both those states. Tasmania remains the weakest residential building market in the country. This is an unenviable position the state has now held for six consecutive quarters. There have been some signs of improving conditions in the Tasmanian economy, but we are yet to see this flow through into the residential building sector. Excitingly the rapid turn of fortunes in NSW is the big story in this report. Six months ago we noted there was momentum building in NSW and this has been confirmed by the latest analysis. NSW is now the second strongest residential building market in the country, having been ranked number five only six months earlier. Much of the recovery in NSW can be attributed to the surge in activity in the multi-unit sector, but the detached home market in NSW ranks among the strongest in the country. The renovations market remains a soft spot for NSW, but there are signs that conditions in this part of the market are improving. For further information regarding the economic performance of our industry visit http://economics.hia.com.au Free HIA Economic Publications Did you know that as a HIA member you have access to various HIA Economics Group publications for no cost? See below for a selection of reports that are complimentary for HIA members. To order these documents visit: visit http://economics.hia.com.au HIA–RP Data Residential Land Report RESIDENTIAL MEDIAN LAND SALES LOT VALUES TRADE AVAILABILITY INDEX REGIONAL MARKETS RESIDENTIAL LOT SIZES LAND VALUE HIA HIA Trades Report Kitchens & Bathrooms TRADE AVAILABILITY BY REGION RANKING OF MARKETS PRICE MOVEMENT IN TRADES TRADE PRICE INDEX 2013/14 A quarterly update on the change in the price and availability of building trades A quarterly update on the sale of residential land March 2014 Quarter Past Growth and Future Prospects June 2014 Quarter Population & Residential Building Hotspots March 2014 Quarter HIA HIA Housing New Home Sales HALF YEARLY REVIEW STATE BY STATE ANALYSIS STATE RANKINGS Scorecard N E W FASTEST GROWING AREAS VALUE OF NEW HOUSING APPROVALS VALUE OF ALTERATIONS & ADDITIONS APPROVALS POPULATION GROWTH DETACHED MULTI-UNIT SALES Australia’s Fastest Growing Towns, Cities & Regions 2014 H O M E APPROVALS MULTI-UNIT DETACHED A monthly update on the sales of new homes June 2014 B U I L D I N G A state by state performance review of residential construction Winter 2014 HALF YEARLY REVIEW STATE BY STATE ANALYSIS STATE RANKINGS NEW HOME BUILDING A state by state performance review of residential construction November 2013 Hunter Building News | 21 FRESH FACE AT HIA INSURANCE SERVICES Introducing Barry Katipunan How long have you been with HIA Insurance? I have been working for HIA Insurance in total for 8 years. In 2011 I left to gain valuable experience as an insurance broker within the London Markets and have since returned to HIA Insurance. How can you help HIA members? Whilst my background is in Home Warranty Insurance, I can also advise on Construction & Public Liability insurance, Motor Vehicle and General Property/Tool Cover. What is one service that members would be surprised that HIA Insurance offer? Builders may or may not be aware that HIA Insurance Services are an insurance broker and can tailor insurance solutions for their business. How do you spend your free time? I donate my time to the Smith Family helping disadvantaged kids gain confidence with their reading skills. Why the move to the Hunter and what do you like about the Hunter region? I moved to the Hunter region as there was an opportunity to assist local builders with Home Warranty Insurance. The best part about the Hunter region are the friendly people! For assistance with insurance contact Barry by calling 0414 404 287 or email: b.katipunan1@aon. com hia.com.au is on the move Now you can access all the latest HIA info on your smartphone Find a HIA office Access all the latest industry info Book a training course or event Shop online and more We know your time is important, which is why we offer a handy call back feature so we can contact you at a suitable time. 22 | Hunter Building News PLANNING UPDATE Michael Buckley Senior Planning Advisor Changes to the assessment of development on bushfire Prone Land T he NSW Government has introduced bushfire reforms to remove the need for multiple assessments and referrals by enabling bushfire risk to be addressed once at subdivision stage. The reforms will also reduce unnecessary bushfire assessments by allowing bushfire prone land maps to be updated to accurately reflect bushfire risk. and building work has satisfied numerous requirements. The changes will only apply to land in an urban release area. This land is to be identified on the Bushfire Planning – Urban Release Area Maps which are to be approved by the Department of Planning and Environment. The changes are not mandatory therefore, you are not legally required to do an assessment of bushfire risk at subdivision stage, nor do you have to apply to update a bushfire prone land map for your land. If bushfire risk is not assessed at the subdivision stage, an assessment at the development application stage will still be required. Development applications on bushfire prone land trigger multiple assessments at subdivision and building stage. The requirement for assessment of bushfire risk at the building stage is often a duplication of matters which have been considered by the NSW Rural Fire Service at the subdivision stage. Where bushfire risk for future dwellings is addressed at the subdivision stage, the The changes will only apply to residential housing that is NOT on land with a high bushfire risk, that is land classified as Bushfire Attack Level - 40 (BAL-40) or in the ‘Flame Zone’. reforms allow the construction of dwelling houses, dual occupancies and secondary dwellings on land in an urban release area to be excluded from assessment under Section 79BA of the EP&A Act providing certain obligations are met. Under Section 79BA, the consent authority (generally councils) has to be satisfied that development such as subdivisions Further detail can be obtain from the Department of Planning and Environment’s web site: http://www.planning.nsw.gov.au/ bushfire-protection For more information contact Michael Buckley, HIA’s Senior Planning Advisor on (02) 9978 3342. Bushfire property protection T he new laws came into effect on the 1 August 2014. Under the new laws, people with homes in a designated bushfire zone will be able to clear trees within 10 metres of their house. They will also be allowed to clear shrubs and other vegetation, except for trees, within 50 metres of the house (not neighbouring properties) in accordance with the ‘Code of Practice’. The locations of the designated bushfire zone areas have been determined by the Rural Fire Service (RFS). The new provision is known as a ‘10/50 vegetation clearing entitlement area’. Where do these changes apply? • • • • • • • • Private homes Seniors housing Boarding homes, group homes and hostels Tourist and visitor accommodation Caravans in caravan parks Schools Hospitals Childcare centres 23 | Hunter Building News The NSW Rural Fire Service has published a ‘Code of Practice’ to guide homeowners and others looking after hospitals, school and childcare centres on what clearing activity will be permitted under the laws. The changes do NOT allow fire (e.g. burning off) to be used as a method to clear trees and vegetation within the specified areas. Copies of the Code of Practice are available on the RFS web site. People conducting clearing outside of what is permissible under the new laws and the Code of Practice will still need to obtain relevant approvals. Where clearing is conducted in breach of the laws and the Code of Practice, the people involved may be subject to enforcement action by local councils or other government agencies. More information can be obtained from the RFS web site: http://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/news-and-media/general-news/1050vegetation-clearing Hunter Building News | 23 WORKCOVER SAFETY ALERT Collapse of scaffolding T his safety alert is published as a result of recent scaffolding collapses in the NSW and Victorian construction industry. It alerts people to the potential risks of scaffolding collapses and provides general guidance on prevention measures. Scaffolding that is overloaded or inadequately tied to a building is vulnerable to collapse. It is important that principal contractors, scaffolding contractors and employers assess the risks and develop, implement and maintain appropriate risk control measures. Occupational Health and Safety Requirements Clause 58 of the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 requires that a scaffold and its supporting structure be inspected by a competent person if someone or something can fall more than four metres from the scaffold or structure. The inspection must take place: prevent unauthorised access. The erection and dismantling of scaffolding must be carried out in accordance with AS/NZS1576.1:1995 Scaffolding, Part 1 General requirements and WorkCover’s industry safety standard Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding, Part 1 - Prefabricated steel modular scaffolding. Risk Controls Use the following control measures to prevent the collapse of scaffolding: • • • • • • • before the scaffold is used for the first time after an incident that might reasonably be expected to affect the stability or adequacy of the scaffold or its supporting structure – eg after a severe storm before the scaffold is used following repairs at intervals not exceeding 30 days. If inspection of a scaffold or its supporting structure indicates safety flaws, appropriate repairs, alterations or additions must be carried out and the scaffold and its supporting structure re-inspected by a competent person before its further use. • • • If a scaffold is incomplete and left unattended, appropriate controls, including the use of danger tags or warning signs, must be used to • • • Select and install scaffolding that is suitable for the tasks and the sequence of construction processes. Provide and maintain adequate means of tying the scaffolding to its supporting structure. Develop a system of work that allows construction activities – eg bricklaying, painting, rendering, façade installation, or window installation – to be completed without unplanned changes to, or removal of, scaffolding ties For example, undertake these tasks by working down from the top of a building as the scaffolding is progressively dismantled, or provide alternative means of tying the scaffolding to its supporting structure that does not interfere with the work. Do not overload the scaffolding with excessive amounts of materials. Ensure that the scaffolding is able to withstand any anticipated loads or forces, such as strong winds. Assign an on-site scaffold coordinator to control the use of various scaffolding platforms and sections of platforms with the relevant subcontractors – see the industry safety standard Engage a competent person to erect, alter and dismantle the scaffolding if someone or something can fall more than four metres from it – only those with the one of the following certificates of competency can undertake these activities: o SB = basic scaffolding o SI = intermediate scaffolding o SA = advanced scaffolding. Provide on-site workers and subcontractors adequate information, instruction, training and supervision regarding the control measures required to prevent the collapse of the scaffolding. Further Information Further information regarding scaffolding can be found in the: • • • • Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 Erecting, altering and dismantling scaffolding, Part 1 Prefabricated steel modular scaffolding AS/NZS 1576 series AS/NZS 4576 Guidelines for scaffolding This alert contains safety information following inquiries made by WorkCover about an incident or unsafe practice. The information contained in this alert does not necessarily include the outcome of WorkCover’s response to an incident or unsafe practice. WorkCover does not warrant that the information in this alert is complete or up-to-date and does not accept any liability to any person because of the alert’s information or its use. 24 | Hunter Building News Erection and dismantling of formwork T his safety alert is published following an incident on a construction site where a form worker was killed by falling formwork. The worker was struck by one-half of a steel column shutter, which was left on a poured concrete column while the other side of the shutter was removed during the stripping operation. Occupational Health and Safety Requirements The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 (OHS Regulation) requires employers to identify hazards, and assess and control risks at the workplace in consultation with their workers. It also requires principal contractors and subcontractors to provide, implement and maintain safe systems of work. In many cases, employers are required to develop and implement safe work method statements for hazardous construction tasks. The OHS Regulation also requires employers to ensure that the risks associated with falling objects are controlled by providing a safe means of raising, securing or lowering plant, materials and debris that may present a fall risk. Risk Controls Employers must ensure that: • • • • • the dismantling of formwork is done in a safe manner that is planned and controlled in accordance with AS 3610 – 1995 Formwork for concrete safe work methods are reviewed and amended regularly as conditions change all persons involved in the work are provided with appropriate training and instruction, which also covers the safe work method statements the risks associated with objects falling are identified and that appropriate controls are implemented and maintained all parts of formwork and false-work assemblies are stable and secure at all times during the forming and stripping operations, as well as during temporary storage on site. • • • OHS Regulation Code of practice for formwork AS 3610-1995 Formwork for concrete. This alert contains safety information following inquiries made by WorkCover about an incident or unsafe practice. The information contained in this alert does not necessarily include the outcome of WorkCover’s response to an incident or unsafe practice. WorkCover does not warrant that the information in this alert is complete or up-to-date and does not accept any liability to any person because of the alert’s information or its use. Further Information Further information regarding safe systems of work for formwork can be found in: IT’S WINE O’CLOCK HIA members and their staff are now able to buy Tyrrell’s wines at 15% off the regular prices (not including special offers), online at any time. The HIA wine club offers a wide range of products at reduced rates – for home or the office. All sales benefit the HIA Charitable Foundation. To take advantage of this exclusive offer visit hia.com.au/foundation and apply the code HIA15 at the checkout Hunter Building News | 25 SAFETY SERVICES Jane Fayad Business Safety Manager - NSW Providing training and instruction to construction workers U nder the WHS Legislation, all Builders and Sub-Contractors must provide relevant information, training, instruction and supervision. This is to protect all workers from risks to their health and safety arising from construction work. Builders and Sub-Contractors must ensure that information, training and instruction provided to a worker are suitable for the: • • • Nature of the work carried out by the worker; Risks associated with the work at the time and Appropriate Control measures to be implemented. Supervisors should be aware of and provide the level of supervision necessary to ensure the health and safety of workers, including checking workers’ level of skills and competency to undertake the work. Supervision is particularly important where workers are unfamiliar with the site or the nature of the work. Workers in a supervisory role should be trained and authorised to ensure the work is carried out in accordance with relevant policies, procedures and the SWMS. A range of activities can assist in ensuring people have the appropriate knowledge and skills to work safely on construction sites, including: • • • • • • • General Induction into safety systems, policies, plans and procedures; General construction induction training (White Card); Site specific induction training; Emergency Response Procedures training; Pre-start meetings or toolbox talks; First Aid Training and Asbestos Awareness Training. Site specific induction training aims to provide information about safety issues and safe work practices that are particular and 26 | Hunter Building News unique to the construction workplace. Site specific induction training may cover the following: • • • • • • • • Hazards and control measures that are relevant to the site; Site specific safety documents, policies and plans (e.g. WHS Management Plan – Construction Project and Traffic Management Plan) Supervisory, consultation and reporting arrangements; Site safety rules First aid provisions; Emergency response Procedures including assembly points and emergency contacts; Process for resolving safety issues and Location of underground services. All workers should attend site specific induction training so they can become aware of procedures, management and reporting arrangements, as well as other issues that are relevant to a particular construction workplace. Other persons who visit the site may also require some workplace specific induction training. Site specific induction training can be delivered in several ways, including: • • • • Toolbox talks; Pre-start meetings; On-the-job instructions and One-off sessions or events called for a specific purpose. Other training may also be necessary to ensure that the worker has the relevant information and instruction when undertaking a particular construction activity. For example, task specific training on how to use fall arrest equipment may be provided to a worker required to work at heights. Task specific training should be developed for the actual task carried out and be regularly reviewed and updated whenever there are changes to the task, processes, systems of work, or plant and substances that may affect health and safety. If you need help or advice, have any safety concerns or would like assistance with complying to the WHS legislation, HIA Safety Services can be contacted on 02 9978 3357. INDUSTRY NEWS BCA free online from 2015 I n an historic decision by the Commonwealth Government and all States and Territories, it has been agreed that the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) will provide the National Construction Code (NCC) series, which includes the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), for free online from 1 May 2015. The ABCB has now released a timeline for roll out of free online access: • • • 1 December 2014 – you can register you details as a subscriber to the NCC 1 February 2015 – subscribers will be allowed to view the 2015 edition of the NCC 1 May 2015 – subscribers will be allowed to download and print copies of the 2015 edition of the NCC Once the NCC is available for free online, the ABCB will stop publishing hard copies. Subscribers will be able to print the Codes as suits their own purposes. and timeframes and are pleased with the announcement from the Commonwealth Government. More information about free access to the BCA from 2015 is available from the ABCB webpage (www.abcb.gov.au) HIA members can contact HIA’s Building Services team for more information on 1300 650 620 or [email protected]. As part of this decision it was also agreed that from May 2016, the Codes will only be updated every 3 years, rather than every year as currently happens. As part of the HIA Federal Election Policy Imperatives campaign at the last election, HIA lobbied for these important changes to BCA access Looking for BETTEr finAnCing oPTionS? HIA Finance can help with a suite of financial services for the residential building industry. With HIA Finance you are guaranteed that our initial approval will be honoured. 1 Construction loans 2 Residential mortgages for your customers 3 Low-doc loans 4 Commercial mortgages with no annual review Not sure what you need to get started? Need more information? Call for a consultation. Call 1300 889 442 email: fi[email protected] or visit hiafinance.com.au Funding solutions are provided by Beyond The Banks, Australian Credit License Number 387381 Hunter Building News | 27 GREENSMART Michael Buckley Senior Planning Advisor Home automation I n the home, appliances and equipment can be controlled automatically and remotely. Automated controls can turn equipment on or off, or adjust operating settings at predetermined times; they can be triggered onsite or remotely; they can adjust equipment operation in response to changes, such as temperature, in the home environment. Home automation systems can improve the energy efficiency of your home only if they are designed for this purpose. Home automation can either be centralised and programmable, or consist of dispersed and isolated sensors and controls. Systems range from sophisticated electronic programmable controls for lighting, heating, cooling and entertainment devices using special wiring or wireless, to just a few isolated, automated systems, such as motion sensors to control lights. Make designing an energy efficient home, and installing high energy efficient appliances and lighting, your first priority. Automotive systems use an electrical signal to switch equipment – usually a light, a motor or heating/cooling appliance – on or off on demand or based on timers or sensors. Valves and dampers can allow water or air to flow while motors can open and shut blinds, vents, fans, pumps and the like, and can be triggered by timers, sensors or thermostats. Relays are more sophisticated switches that can activate any electrical or electronic device. Computers or specific controllers can automate all of these devices. • Control heaters and air conditioners so they are used only when and where they are needed and to achieve a desired temperature Before considering automation options, ensure that your home is designed to make the best use of solar energy and natural ventilation for passive heating and cooling. Use thermostats or temperature sensors in different rooms to control heating and cooling. Appropriately placed, they, along with timers to control heating/cooling appliances, can significantly reduce energy use, even if automated systems are not used. Analyse your heating/cooling needs and how to manage them. Ask yourself: which rooms need to be heated/cooled, when and to what temperature? Aim to heat/cool living areas when people are home but heat/cool bedrooms only at night and in early morning when they are occupied bedrooms do not need to be made as warm or cool as living areas to be comfortable for sleeping. Don’t heat or cool areas such as halls and laundries, and use the appropriate heating systems for the purposes. Hot water control Heating and cooling control Automate the hot water system so it can be switched on and off as required, e.g. off when going on holidays, on again just before your return. Solar systems can be controlled so they do not require the use of an auxiliary booster during periods of poor solar gain in summer or when demand increases, e.g. family home for Christmas. A well-designed automation system can: Appliances and equipment control • Use controls to operate appliances and equipment only when they are needed. Remote control and timer control of appliances, from coffee makers to home theatres to spas, can save energy if the appliances can be switched off when not required. But take care not to turn on appliances automatically or at preset times – more energy may be consumed if there is no need for the appliances to operate. Improve passive solar heating and passive cooling through the control of blinds, awnings, windows, vents and fans Automating equipment control to reduce operating times is particular useful if the appliances normally use stand-by power when they are not operating, e.g. stereos, TVs, DVDs and home office equipment. It is also useful when the need for the equipment to operate varies, such as for pool pumps, where daily operating hours can be matched to the season. Energy monitoring The home automation system can monitor the total energy use of the house or even individual circuits or appliances. Current is measured by a measuring device at the meter board, and is converted into power and energy consumption. This information 28 | Hunter Building News The Hunter House of Inspirations, within the Home Inspirations centre, displays a range of home automation products. Products on display have the ability to operate devices such as motorised blinds, air conditioning, pool and spa pumps, security systems and home theatres… just to name a few. HIA acknowledges the support o f our Hunter GreenSmart Regional Partners is transmitted wirelessly to an inside display unit or directly to the automation controller. Depending on the system installed, the user can view power, energy, cost and estimated greenhouse gas emissions associated with the whole house. The system can be configured to measure the renewable energy generated by a photovoltaic system or wind generator, and show how much electricity has been exported to the grid. Users can also view this information in real time, or view the past week’s or month’s use. The display can also show environmental or other measurements, such as outside/inside temperature, and hot water temperature. Automation equipment, sensors and controls Home automation systems work by managing the electric power of the equipment being automatically controlled. The degree of intelligence and how it is distributed between the elements of the home automation system varies with the design and manufacturer. Control can be implemented by isolated sensors, timers and processors embedded in the switches and relays. Centralised control can be obtained through networked sensors linked to a controller or computer which then operates the power system of equipment throughout the house. The operation of more sophisticated equipment such as central heaters, air conditioners or home theatres can also be brought under the control of the automation system, but with more intelligent controlled devices. In the future, home automation systems may be linked to the electricity utility in a number of ways in which the utility may communicate variations in electricity prices to a smart electricity meter, which interfaces with the home automation controller. Householders can then program appliances to reduce power, save energy or switch off altogether during high price periods. (Source: Your Home - Australians guide to environmentally sustainable homes – Energy: Home Automation - Australian Government) HIA CHARITABLE FOUNDATION HAMMERHEAD ALE A limited edition mid-strength ale that has a base of classic ale barley with a touch of Vienna malt for sweet creaminess and Carapils malt for body and texture. Ideal to finish a long day! By purchasing this limited edition beer you will also be supporting the HIA Charitable Foundation. Great for home, the workplace or for your Christmas function! For a limited time cartons are available to purchase with collection from your local HIA office. By purchasing any Hammerhead Ale products from Newstead Brewery you confirm you are over 18 years of age. The HIA Charitable Foundation supports the Responsible Service of Alcohol. For specific legislation in your state or territory visit our Liquor Licensing Acts page. For more information email [email protected] 3140_CF_Hammerhead_BNQPad.indd 1 Hunter Building News | 29 19/08/14 12:36 PM EVENTS Leigh Cooper Events Coordinator - Hunter HIA Port Stephens trade night H and hope to make the event a regular on the HIA Hunter Events Calendar. IA Hunter members and their guests were able to attend the HIA Port Stephens Trade Night on 10th September. This was the first trade night that HIA have held in this region for several years. The event was well-supported by HIA members who enjoyed a major presentation from Workplace Adviser, Luke Winchester who spoke on dispute resolution and how builders can avoid large claims at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). Luke gave some tips on managing disputes in general, then some specific examples of what to expect at the NCAT and how to maximise their chances of a favorable outcome. HIA Hunter Region Executive Director, Craig Jennion also provided attendees with an update on the Building Code of Australia and the changes to bushfire regulations. Special thanks to all partners for the HIA Hunter Port Stephens Trade Night: Guests also received product updates and presentations from the Major Sponsors: James Hardie, Wideline Windows & Doors and Apricus Solar Hot Water. HIA Hunter was pleased to host a trade night for our members in the Port Stephens area, HIA – Kingspan GreenSmart Showcase H Insulation, Trend Windows & Doors and Clipsal. IA members and guests who attended the recent GreenSmart Showcase on the 6th August were given some extremely useful information on how to achieve comfortable homes and low energy bills. Dr Stephen White of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) divulged details of how research has developed new technology such as cooling systems using solar thermal energy to build better, more affordable homes that keep energy bills down. CSIRO are creating the technologies to help with energy efficiency and have programs to help people understand how to make small A huge thank you to all sponsors on the night for their support with HIA and this event: changes to the way they use energy. You can visit CSIRO’s website for top tips on how to save power, money and reduce your carbon footprint. Product updates were also given by our Naming Rights and Major Sponsors, Kingspan DATE TIME CPD POINTS MEMBER COST NON MEMBER COST Wests - Mayfield West 6th November 7.30am - 9.30am 2 $55.00 $55.00 HIA Mayfield West 11th November 5.00pm - 7.00pm 2 $16.50 $22.00 7.00am - 2.00pm N/A $85.00 $85.00 EVENT NAME VENUE Economic Breakfast Information Night Information Night Gosford Golf Club 12th November Information Night Club Forster 18th November Information Night Scone Timber and Hardware 25th November Golf Day Toukley Golf Day 20th November 30 | Hunter Building News are you accessing all your IAmember benefits? Being a member of HIA allows you to take advantage of substantial savings on an exclusive range of products and services related to your business. HIA Telecommunications HIA Vehicles HIA Telecommunications helps in selecting the right communication technologies for your business. From tailored business solutions to advice on internet and data products, HIA Telecommunications can assist. As a HIA member, you, your family and your employees all have access to a range of vehicle services. HIA Vehicles can provide assistance with purchasing a new or used vehicle, tailor financial solutions to assist with purchasing your vehicle, provide vehicle insurance options through HIA Insurance Services as well as warranties and servicing. Fuel Discounts Save on fuel and simplify your paperwork with a Caltex Starcard. HIA Health Plan HIA Health Plan offers members access to Bupa health insurance options. Join Bupa and your corporate health plan will include one month free for both hospital and extras cover and up to 90% back on selected options. Among other benefits members also get a waiver of two and six month waiting periods on some essentials. Conditions apply. Qantas Club HIA members have exclusive access to HIA’s Qantas Club corporate scheme. This HIA membership benefit allows members to join the Qantas Club at a significantly reduced rate including the Qantas Club Lounge and the Frequent Flyer Program. HIA Shop The HIA Shop has essential stationery tools and business products to help you run your business including contracts, building guides, first aid kits, site signs and a range of other products at special member prices. Remember HIA’s workplace advisers are here to help and provide assistance when using HIA’s contracts. Contracts Online Contracts Online is the quick, secure and easy way to purchase your industry contracts. HIA Finance Looking for better financing options? HIA Finance can help with a suite of financial services for the residential building industry. Want to know more about HIA’s products and services? Contact your local HIA office. T: 1300 650 620 E: [email protected] or visit hia.com.au H3
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