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Licensing of Builders

Builders are required to be licensed in order to carry out most types of domestic building work and face significant penalties if they carry out work for which they do not have an appropriate licence. [Part 2 ss 6 to 10 Building Work Contractors Act 1995 (SA) ]. In order to be licensed, a builder must meet certain criteria, including:

  • the right qualifications and experience
  • have sufficient business knowledge and financial resources to properly carry out the work authorised by the licence
  • be a fit and proper person.

The public can search an online register to ensure that a builder has a current licence. The register may be accessed online through the Consumer and Business Services Public Register.

Domestic building work has a broad definition, including construction or renovation of, and repairs to a house. It also includes certain types of work prescribed by regulation, such as the installation of, or repairs or improvements to a swimming pool or insulation, paving and fencing. Domestic building work with a value of less than $12,000 is defined as minor building work and is not subject to the same level as regulation as contracts with a value of over $12,000.

Licensing of Builders  :  Last Revised: Mon Nov 23rd 2015
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.