Certifiably sound

The largest financial investment most people will make in their lifetime is the purchase of a house, and with luck and a buoyant property market, it is one that pays off in the long term.

When clients chose to design and build a brand new home, they are also investing in their relationship with those who will make it happen, meaning the rewards, and the risks, are even greater.

But Derek Baxter, CEO of the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand (CBANZ), says with a significant proportion of builders working without a formal trade qualification, some risks are simply not worth taking.

"We believe it is the consumer's right to know their builder is appropriately trained and has the skills and business ethics to do a good job. It is also highly advantageous for others involved in the process, such as architects and designers, to feel the integrity and quality of the project is maintained throughout."

Certified carpenters and builders undertake rigorous training to become trade qualified and those skills help them establish good working relationships with regulatory authorities, industry suppliers, clients and architects.

Only a CBANZ-certified builder can offer an underwritten Homefirst Builders Guarantee, providing cover for loss of deposit, non-completion and defects in workmanship and materials for five years.

For more information, contact the Certified Builders Association of New Zealand Inc, PO Box 13405, Tauranga, phone 0800 Certified (0800 237 843). Website: www.certified.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas