Supervision
It is important that you understand your responsibilities in relation to on-site supervision of building work. Research by BSA suggests that at least 60% of seriously defective work reported to BSA can be attributed to poor supervision practices.
BSA has produced a fact sheet - Supervision of Building Work - which provides advice and guidance to ensure you are providing adequate supervision. This fact sheet covers:
The importance of supervision
Legal obligation to supervise building work
What is adequate supervision
Supervisors checklist for domestic building work
Licensing requirements
Does a licensed contractor have an obligation to supervise building work?
Carried out under a licence - Yes - A licensed contractor (including a nominee supervisor or site supervisor) is required to ensure that work carried out under the licence is personally and adequately supervised by an appropriately licensed person.
When acting as construction manager - Yes - A construction manager has the same legal obligations regarding supervision as a licensed contractor. A construction manager must ensure that building work carried out by licensed trade contractors (under construction management trade contracts) for a principal is personally and adequately supervised by an appropriately licensed person.
Is a certifier responsible for supervision and the quality of work?
No - You and the owner are responsible for ensuring that the work is constructed to an acceptable standard and in accordance with the approved plans and contract documentation. An owner may engage a private building consultant or inspector to report on the work on their behalf.
A certifier is required to act in the public interest in regard to health and safety but cannot perform a supervisory role or report on the quality of work on behalf of the owner.
Related Pages Publications
Applying - Trade Contractor or Designer Building Links Winter 2006 - Supervision
Applying - Builder
Applying - Nominee Supervisor
Applying - Site Supervisor
