15 Jan

The Importance of Commercial Roofing Compliance

In the commercial sector, roofing compliance is essential for protecting both a building’s occupants and financial investments tied to the property. It’s an assurance that a commercial roof is strong, safe, and functional. If you have any roofing works completed, you must employ a qualified roof plumber who will issue a compliance certificate.

In this article, we’ve taken a closer look at what compliance certificates are, why they’re important, and what risks you could face from not using a qualified roof plumber.

With more than 30 years experience, O’Boyles Roof Plumbing are experts in all things commercial roofing – from roof plumbing and gutter installation to repairs. Our team of installers are all licensed plumbers, so you can rest assured that they understand the importance of compliance and seek to ensure the safety of your property at all times.

What is a Compliance Certificate?

This is a document that legally recognises that a roof plumbing job has been completed according to Victorian regulations and standards and is valid for six years. A copy should be issued to both the property owner and the Victorian Building Authority (VBA).

It applies to all types of jobs, from gutter installation or repair to downpipe installation and upgrading flashing. In fact, any job over the value of $750 should be issued a certificate.

Regardless of whether the works are major or minor, a compliance certificate will provide the homeowner with peace of mind, along with a record that the works have been completed according to all relevant standards and codes.

While certificates should be issued within five days of the works being completed, most roof plumbers will issue them immediately.

Who Can Issue a Compliance Certificate?

Only qualified roof plumbers are able to issue these certificates. In order to renew their licence, they must also hold current insurance.

The VBA has very strict registration and licensing requirements for roof plumbers, providing property owners with peace of mind that works have been carried out to the highest standard.

What Are the VBA Requirements?

Anyone applying for a registration or roofing (stormwater) license must complete a VBA exam.

• Registration – There are three different pathways to becoming registered. The most common is completing an Australian apprenticeship, but mutual recognition (if you have a current registration or licence in another state or New Zealand) or a non-apprentice pathway are also possible.

• Licence – To become a licensed roof plumber, you must hold (or be eligible to hold) a registration, have an additional two years of practical experience, hold the prescribed units for licence, and successfully complete the VBA non-apprentice registration exam.

What If My Roof Plumber Says I Don’t Need A Compliance Certificate?

You should be wary of any roof plumber who says that you don’t need a compliance certificate for your job. Without one, you can’t be certain that the works are completed according to VBA standards.

On top of this, the plumber is also putting themselves at risk – in Melbourne, roof plumbers who do not issue compliance certificates or who issue them fraudulently face harsh penalties, including fines of over $20,000. If they are willing to forego such an important legal document, it makes you wonder what other corners they’re cutting. They may even be unqualified.

What Happens if I Don’t Use a Qualified Roof Plumber?

Employing an unqualified roof plumber to complete works on your commercial property poses several risks:

• Defects in the works could lead to costly damage.
• The roof may not be adequately repaired, which means it will be unable to fulfill its purpose – protecting the business and its occupants.
• The works could cause water leaks that lead to costly repairs.
• You have no formal or legal recognition of the works, which can mean that the contractor refuses to acknowledge fault.
• You could be left with a more significant repair job than you started with – plus, you’ll have to pay for the work twice!

When it comes to roof plumbing for your commercial property, taking shortcuts is far too risky. Instead, you should always ensure that you’ve employed a qualified roof plumber who will issue a compliance certificate on the spot wherever possible.

All of the roofing installers at O’Boyles Roof Plumbing are licensed plumbers through the VBA and have more than 30 years combined experience working on Melbourne roofs. Rest assured that your commercial property is in good hands when you partner with us.

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