Did you know that whether building a new home or renovating or just plain maintenance, the law holds
you as the owner, responsible for any installation/repair? The insurance company can refute a claim
should this aspect of the law not be followed.
No that is a tall order for the consumer! How can I be held responsible for the work of an electrician,
plumber, builder and so on? Fair question – but the law does not say you must follow and check each
installation, it says you are responsible for ensuring that you employ registered and qualified
tradespeople, building contractors and engineers. If in the upper bracket, this includes architects as the
law applies not only to residential but all types of buildings.
Each aspect of the building has a set of design and installation regulations which each discipline must
abide by – not a choice – a must! Even a rational design has to follow certain rules and use the
regulation as a basis.
Instead of rushing for the cheapest quote and product/s -think what your responsibility is. To ensure the
the best job is done with the compliant product as stated in the applicable standard.
Cheap is costly or goedkoop is deurkoop. By going for the cheapest you risk the lives of your family,
friends and tenants.
Imagine a geyser (hot water storage tank) exploding whilst entertaining friends or your building going up
in flames all because of a cheap product/installation. The law will go for YOU.
Rather be safe than sorry. Reply on your qualified people who have had years of study – Yes,
tradespeople can spend up to four years of theory and practical learning before their trade test and
qualifying never mind how long an architect and engineer can spend getting his/her degree.
I have no doubt that you have had an experience or two going down the cheap route. Share them with
us so others can learn and not fall into the same trap.