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Insurance warning for owner-builders and renovatorsWellington Shire Council is advising new homeowner-builders and renovators to ensure their work is properly certified and covered by construction, warranty and liability insurance - to protect against possible claims by subsequent owners. By Wellington Shire Council - 9th March 2005 - Back to News This key message was delivered to budding local owner-builders and renovators by building industry experts at a recent seminar hosted by the council and run by the Australian building advisory service, Home Building Systems (HBS).
With more than 20% of new homes and renovations in Victoria carried out by owner-builders, certification and insurance are key matters to address. Indeed, it could prove impossible to sell a property for the first six years after work (valued at over $12,000) has been completed, without warranty insurance cover. This cover will also protect against faults discovered by subsequent owners during the warranty period, whether it be something as simple as a leaking pipe or a more major repair.
To help ensure that all the necessary procedures are followed and pitfalls avoided publications and advice are available from Building Advice and Conciliation Victoria (BACV) through their website www.consumer.vic.gov.au and by telephoning them on 1300 55 75 59.
Publications aimed at owner-builders and renovators are also available from the council’s libraries around the shire, as well as from its mobile library.
Wellington’s Building Surveyor, Russell Wallace, said: "The proper certification and insurance of work are a must for owner-builders and renovators, and guidance is particularly relevant at this time when the shire is enjoying strong home building and construction growth.
"The recent seminar hosted by the council to discuss these issues was well attended and popular with participants, with many saying that they found the information and advice invaluable. The event was also the first of its kind to be run outside Melbourne and we are looking now to arrange another seminar in August."
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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