Q: Can you please advise the standard warranty period for structural defects in concrete pool construction under a standard MBA contract in NSW.
Would that warranty include for reinforcing steel being exposed on pool wall beneath water line.
A: Under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act the Builder is not responsible for defective work after 10 years from the final inspection. The MBA contract specifies the law in NSW under section 18 and this is the Warranty period.
Q: Is there a book or booklet that has information on sizes of timber and/or steel that will span distances with loads taken into consideration. I tried to chase this up on the net but came up with too many options and most without the correct information.
A: Most timber companies will supply this information. The Acceptable standards of domestic construction has the span tables listed for timber also. Don't know about the steel spans as it depends on the type of load and fixings.
If it is for a specific situation an engineer is your best bet as he takes the responsibility of it being correct.
Q: We are building a garage/rumpus room up the back and last week the builders stapled on the roofing insulation (which is silver and yellow fibre insulation). It started to rain and they left it for a few days. In the meantime it became windy and part of the insulation blew off. I questioned the builders about the insulation being wet and a part is slightly torn. They said it will dry. So tomorrow they will start work in the morning (weather permitting) and start putting the roof sheeting on. My question is should we get them to put new insulation up before the roof goes on? Is this a reasonable request?
A: If the insulation is intact, that is; if there are not tears then it should be OK.
The idea of the insulation with the sisalation (blue and sliver paper) backing is so that any condensation or moisture can run along into the gutter and not onto the ceiling below.
Q: My question is what qualifications do you need to become a builder, so that you can construct dwellings from the footings upto lock up stage.
Do you need to go to TAFE or UNI and what courses do you need to study?
I hope this question falls under your umbrella.
A: If you have Carpentry, Bricklaying, Engineering or Architectural qualifications that are current (that is less than 10 years) and you complete a certificate IV in Building either through the Mater Builders or TAFE, you can apply to the Office of Fair Trading - Home Building Service for a builders licence in NSW.
If you do not hold the above qualifications then you will have to complete the Diploma or Advanced Diploma at TAFE or a Building Degree at a recognised University.
Work experience is also required along with references for industry people to verify your experience.