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BACK ON THE JOB

As we begin the new year with the sun shining and most of our time off having drawn to a close, I hope you managed to take a break and enjoy some of your holiday season with family and friends

While 2019 is fast disappearing behind us, it was a big year for reforms within the building industry. We take a look at the major legislative changes that occurred, many of which will continue to develop and affect the industry this year and going forward. Hopefully many of you will have provided input on these proposed reforms and I encourage you to keep doing so when the opportunity arises. It is your knowledge and expertise that is needed to inform these and future changes.

With many of you back on the job, it makes sense to move straight into ‘get-er-done’ mode, but making sure your customers are happy in the midst of all this is arguably even more crucial. Business coach Graeme Owen explains that doing the little things well is key to ensuring your clients become fans.

While it would be ideal if it were never needed, insurance is an important component of our industry. This issue, we look at what mandatory insurance ADVERT would mean for builders and clients, if the Government chose to implement it, and we also hear from BuiltIn about a key timing element when claiming on existing insurance. With many of you back on the job, it makes Looking ahead, it’s important we continue to nurture new talent into the industry. Apprentices are the future, which is why PlaceMakers supports sense to get straight their journey to becoming qualified builders through the PAC initiative. This into ‘get-er-done’ mode issue, we hear from Apprentice of the Month Elisa Fisher, newly qualified graduate Kane Nisbet, and the winner of the Apprentice of the Year competition Andrew Hopley. They have all faced and overcome challenges with smart thinking and innovative approaches.

Ensuring that newly qualified and younger builders have access to lessons learned from years of experience is a great way to ensure the success of the industry moving forward – check out the story on page 22 to see how Certified Builders is establishing cross-generation connections with PASLODE FRAMING NAILER its members. & ANGLED BRADDER KIT S20503 I hope that, as always, you will find this content useful as we move Kit contains: into 2020. • Paslode Impulse IM325 FrameMaster-Li • 1× charger kit framing nailer B20543P • 1× safety glasses Gary Woodhouse • Paslode Impulse IM250A trimmaster-Li • 2× allen keys GREAT RATE 1.6mm angled bradder B20721 • 1× tough carry bag General Manager Operations • 2× 2.2Ah lithium-ion batteries $ +GST 5081002 1,349 *Competition valid from the 31st January to 20th June 2020. Terms and conditions apply. See puntforprizes.co.nz for details. Bonus offers exclusively to trade account holders only. Excludes Know How Rewards. All prices exclude GST. Products featured may not be stocked in all stores but can be ordered in at the advertised price. Offers valid from Saturday 1ST February – Tuesday 31ST March 2020.

1 CONTENTS BUILDERS' BUSINESS

NEWS TINY HOMES – CONSENT CONCERNS 4 PAC NEWS Apprentice of the Month for November; Novice who Builders’ Business is a column by builders for builders. Its objective is to provide a forum, Nailed It Award; A recent graduate’s reflections; particularly for small business operators, in which to share knowledge, experience, tips and ideas Winners of the PAC Xmas giveaway! 7 PLACEMAKERS NEWS A massive congratulations to our 2019 House of the Year national winners Q: What do you think about tiny homes on wheels and should they require a building consent? 19 INDUSTRY NEWS A look at how mandatory insurance could affect 7 the building industry; Tiny homes might be small, but Firm: Broswick Builders Limited Firm: Glenn Grant Builders Firm: Karl Kampenhout Builder Limited there is much confusion around the rules governing Principal: Todd Wickenden Principal: Glenn Grant Principal: Karl Kampenhout them – we look into it; New home consents reach 45-year high Location: Auckland Location: Nelson Location: Hamilton Staff: 13 Staff: 5 Staff: 10

FEATURES I definitely think tiny homes should First off, I think tiny homes are a great Tiny homes have a place in the require a building consent. I’ve seen idea. We’ve been involved in building construction environment and provide 3 BUILDERS’ BUSINESS Builders’ views on tiny home regulation a couple from the side of the road on small houses, not tiny homes, but affordable housing for people some land while driving around. I think houses that are only 80m2, with all the seeking ways to enter the market. with people living in them, they should essentials, and more and more people However, there’s obvious confusion. 10 MBIE – TIMELINE An overview of regulatory changes in 2019 be up to code like any other building. seem interested in building houses with It appears councils are going different That includes having appropriate smaller footprints. ways on regulating them, and builders 12 12 MBIE – CODEWORDS Building Practitioners Board Annual Report; Why it’s materials, insulation, plumbing — all and aspiring homeowners might look at important to get your Records of Work done those things. Many people look at building a tiny one success somewhere but then run home because they want to save into issues with their respective council. 16 SITE SAFE Site Safe provides practical advice on how to As far as people trying to classify them money. However, that sometimes stay safe working with concrete as vehicles, some of these tiny homes involves trying to navigate around I believe tiny homes need to meet would struggle being towed behind needing a consent. In my mind, this the same building and engineering 24 BRANZ How to make fencing functional a truck. If they’re fully operational shouldn’t be allowed, as tiny homes compliance as regular builds require. as a vehicle, can withstand proper incorporate most of the same structural A blanket rule that eliminates the 28 CCANZ Concreting without cracking under pressure transport for decent distances, and elements as normal houses – framing, confusion and standardises compliance (or in the heat) have a Warrant of Fitness, then plumbing, weathertightness. Legally, rules would be beneficial. there’s an argument there. However, all buildings need to comply with the 32 SUCCESSFUL BUILDER How to turn clients into fans that shouldn’t mean that they can Building Code, whether they need I understand some tiny home building avoid being built correctly and using a consent or not, but if someone doesn’t companies advertise that tiny homes 32 approved construction methods. get a building consent and these homes don’t need consents because they’re What can trigger a public liability insurance claim 34 BUILTIN are so popular with people who may not vehicles, but from what I’ve seen, not and when For people looking at owning a tiny be builders, how can a council ensure many appear to be equipped for long- home, I think they need to be careful they are building to code? distance travel. Motorhomes must meet to make sure it adheres to the Building their own set of rules for compliance, so OTHER STUFF Code and ensure it can be approved Basically, just because it’s 'tiny' doesn’t it could be worth having the same kind under any of the classifications they’re mean it’s not a home, so it should have of thing for tiny homes that are claimed listing it under. to adhere to the same regulations. to be road-ready vehicles. 36 SPONSORSHIP A year of charity

36 SKILLS MAINTENANCE Record your LBP skills maintenance – you’ve earned it! 34 NOW HAVE YOUR SAY... HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT'S PROPOSED REFORMS ON MODERN WIN! ISSUE 80 > FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION (ALSO KNOWN AS PREFABRICATED BUILDING)? >PUBLISHER > DCL Corporate Publishing > ENQUIRIES > [email protected]; (04) 384 5689 ANSWER THIS QUESTION TO ENTER OUR QUARTERLY PRIZE DRAW DCL Corporate Publishing reserves the right to accept or reject all editorial or advertising material. No part of Under Construction magazine may be published without the express permission of the Email your answer with your full name, contact phone number, company name, number of full-time staff and the publisher. All rights reserved. Opinions expressed or imagery in Under Construction magazine are not necessarily those of PlaceMakers or the publisher. No responsibility is accepted for the suggestions of city or town in which you’re based to [email protected]. All responses must be submitted the contributors or conclusions that may be drawn from them. Although the publisher has made every effort to ensure accuracy, the reader remains responsible for the correct use and selection of any tools, by 25 February 2020. The answers to this question will be published in Under Construction April/May 2020. materials and systems followed, as well as the following of any laws or codes or standards that may apply.

2 3 PAC NEWS PAC NEWS PLACEMAKERS APPRENTICE CREW PLACEMAKERS APPRENTICE CREW

HEADLINE NOVICE WHO NAILED IT QUALIFIED AND KANEING IT The top apprentice of 2019 credits Apprentice of the Month Our apprentice column provides an opportunity for PAC members to share their views, experiences and ideas, with giving his own work focus while providing insight for builders who employ them. This month’s question is: ndrew Hopley, a 3rd year Andrew might be a relative novice at apprentice from Akaroa who has building, but aged 35 with two kids : What was key to successfully completing your apprenticeship? Aconsistently entered Apprentice at home, the former tour boat skipper Q of the Month and won twice this year, probably isn’t what most outside of the has won the grand prize of ‘Novice who building industry imagine when thinking Newly qualified builder Kane Nisbet reflects on the challenges of his apprenticeship, and how Nailed It’ – taking away $500 in travel of an apprentice builder. a great mentor, an understanding employer and PAC helped secure his success vouchers. Though as Andrew sees it, entering is about more than just winning. When asked what advice he would Andrew receiving his travel voucher from Ali Scarlet give to other apprentices, Andrew of PlaceMakers Riccarton ecent carpentry graduate Kane a couple of things stand out for Kane While he’s just graduated and now has “Being an apprentice isn’t always easy. says: “You just have to keep at it and Nisbet works for Kane Building – at the top of the list is his mentor, his name on the new company vehicle, Sometimes you can get a bit of a hard take opportunities when they present But I do have it in the van, or on the RGroup in Auckland. While the experienced builder Jason Williamson. he’s not sitting back just yet: “my wife time. So, I think having something themselves – don’t shy away from workbench at home, and reference it as shared name is just a coincidence, works for a real estate company and like Apprentice of the Month to focus something that will challenge you, and much as possible.” Kane likes to run with it when the “I’m so grateful to have had Jason’s help they’re looking for a handyman, so I’m the quality of your work on and look don’t be afraid to ask for help.” opportunity arises. during my apprenticeship. He really going to start my own small company forward to is a great thing. While it’s not about the prize for went out of his way and I don’t think that for that, just a day a fortnight, and take For his own learning, Andrew has been Andrew, it won’t go unappreciated: "Sometimes people think I own the is always the case for apprentices – I’ve a supervisor’s course through BCITO”. “The competition also provides a chance focusing on becoming more familiar “My wife and I have a wedding to go to business, and I like to play on that as learned so much from him. to see what others are doing and how with NZS 3604. in Queenstown, and we might go down a bit of a laugh. It's even easier to do “I want to continue to develop my skills, high the standard of their work is. This without the kids, which would be a nice that now as, since graduating, I’ve “I would love to be able to give back and even though I like to joke about makes you feel really good when you do “It’s always with me – I mean, it's 40mm reward for both of us for all the hard received a company van, which has my and pass on knowledge and skills to owning the company, I’m very happy win, because there's strong competition.” thick, so I don’t have it on my tool belt! work last year.” name on the side in big orange letters!” apprentices in the same way.” where I am, so I see myself staying right here and keeping on doing what Graduating with a New Zealand Kane is also grateful to his employer, I’m doing." Certificate in Carpentry (Level 4), Kane who allowed him the time to do his NOVEMBER APPRENTICE OF THE MONTH won PlaceMakers Apprentice of the bookwork during the working week. Month three times during the four years of his apprenticeship, a goal that kept “With a four-year-old and a Apprentice finds success avoiding rush hour him on his toes. one-year-old, it was a struggle to study at home in the evenings,” he says. lisa Fisher, a first-year painting Seeing as booting the other tradies “Knowing that my work is going to be and decorating apprentice from out wasn’t an option, Elisa waited until assessed and that I could win the award A key learning Kane is taking with him EHamilton, had to think outside the many of them had left before she’d motivated me to keep my standards from his time as an apprentice is to get box to tackle a big project, working after start her work. high. It’s made me a better builder and the right answer. peak tradie times to get the job done. it’s been great to be recognised for my “Staying late turned out to be ideal. hard work.” “I firmly believe that you should always “My project was to paint inside a huge Fewer people and bits of machinery ask questions, but you also need to do apartment complex with over 300 around created more clear space, so it November Apprentice of the Month Elisa Fisher Kane has also seen other benefits your own work to get the right answer workers, along with cranes, and big was a lot more relaxed, with less things receiving a Milwaukee radio and charger from to being part of the PlaceMakers – for example, you’re best to read the truck and tractor units moving in and out for me to bang into and fewer people to Duncan Nicholls at PlaceMakers Te Rapa Apprentice Crew. manufacturer’s instructions on how 24/7. It was almost impossible to move lean on my freshly painted walls! to use a product before asking other in there, so it would have been a pretty working with the clear space to do it “It’s useful to read about other builders how they use it.” stressful way to work, and I didn’t want “I learned that sometimes you just need well, and the finished work turned out apprentices’ experiences to help my newly painted walls to get ruined!” to do what needs to be done –I enjoyed great, so I call that a win-win!” confirm I’m on the right track. Also, Kane has also enjoyed an aspect of it’s not cheap to kit yourself out with being an apprentice that he didn’t a full-blown set of quality tools, so the anticipate liking quite so much: “it turns discounts are a real help, and the prizes out I like being thrown in the deep end. PAC CASH TRADE DISCOUNTS even more so.” It sounds stressful and I can’t say I Kane at work on the first build he’s been Don't forget that all current PAC members have access to love stress, but I love the responsibility fully responsible for cash trade discounts on safety gear and hand tools plus Thinking about his time as an apprentice, of it”. other product ranges (some exclusions apply) at all PlaceMakers branches. Visit the PAC hub for more details - 4 pac.placemakers.co.nz 5 PAC NEWS NEWS PLACEMAKERS APPRENTICE CREW COMMUNITY NEWS

18 DAYS OF GIVEAWAYS HEADLINEHOUSE OF THE YEAR – NATIONAL WINNERS

From 1 to 18 December, the PAC Facebook page was on fire with the ‘18 Days of Giveaways’ Congratulations to all of our PlaceMakers customers who have won promotion House of the Year National Awards!

laceMakers Apprentice Crew continues to one-up its huge Christmas giveaway, adding Panother four days to the frenzy! With hundreds battling it out to take home the prizes, 18 PAC members walked away stoked, thanks to the support of participating PlaceMakers suppliers. In addition, Hev Scott-Smith spent hours deciphering the mystery puzzle. It paid off in the end, with her cracking the puzzle on Day 2, scoring herself a $250 Red Balloon Voucher.

Tiare Snowdon-Rameka from Taupo was thrilled with his prize!

DUNLOP BUILDERS Southland - Otago - Central Otago & Gore DAVID REID HOMES WAITAKI/ SPICE BUILD SOUTH CANTERBURY Wellington & Wairarapa Mid & South Canterbury NEW HOME $1.5 MILLION - $2 MILLION SUPREME AWARD REGISTERED MASTER NEW HOME UP TO $450,000 BUILDERS RENOVATION OF THE YEAR

BROSWICK BUILDERS TMT CONSTRUCTION Auckland Canterbury DIMENSION BUILDING RENOVATION $500,000 - $1 MILLION Mid & South Canterbury RENOVATION UP TO $500K PLACEMAKERS NEW HOME $450,000 - $600,000

STONEWOOD HOMES EAST LITE-HOUSE LIMITED Auckland D&B BUILDERS AUCKLAND Auckland Bay of Plenty & Central Plateau VOLUME/GROUP HOUSING NEW HOME OUTDOOR LIVING AWARD $450K - $750K RESENE NEW HOME OVER $2 MILLION

6 7 NEWS WHAT'S ON

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If you’re looking for a work shirt with an awesome fit and superior performance, check out the Argyle XT performance t-shirt. The anti-microbial finish allows sweat to wash out, Key Deck is a solid, natural timber decking product extending the lifetime of your t-shirt. produced from sustainable New Zealand Radiata that is FSC Certified and available from PlaceMakers. The The wicking fabric offers comfort, ventilation and about 20% pre-finished timber is enhanced with quarter sawing better drying ability than other standard polos. The seamless for stability and performance, new generation wood

ABODO VULCAN DECKING VULCAN ABODO shoulder provides improved comfort; the soft and light fabric protection for durability, and a patented oil and colour minimises restriction on movement; and a slightly longer cut impregnation process. It has a 90mm clean-tread means your waist isn’t exposed when raising your arms up. profile, is treated to H3.2 and is available in selected Available in sizes S - 8XL. lengths up to 4.8m (subject to availability at time of order). Standards compliance: Orange and yellow design complies with: AS/NZS4602.1:2011 + Amdt No.1: Nov 2016 Class Key Deck can easily be attached directly to the Abodo’s Vulcan Decking, available from PlaceMakers, is created from thermally modified New Zealand plantation timber and Day Only use. Orange and yellow material complies with: substructure, using the Camo Edge Deck Fastening then treated with an organic preservative system that includes a water repellent for superior durability. The thermal modification AS/NZS 1906.4.2010. Suitable for Day Only time usage. system to create a concealed fix solution. Alternatively, process means Vulcan Decking has enhanced stability, reduced resin content and is a beautiful homogeneous brown colour. All colours AS/NZS4399 UPF 50+ Excellent rating. conventional top fixed screws can be used. PINOLI INTERIOR PLYWOODPINOLI PANELS GB MASONRY BREEZE BLOCK RANGE The secret behind the performance of the Titen Turbo lies in special thread design that lowers driving torque, while providing excellent holding power. The New and exclusive NURASPIKE™ revolutionary Torque to PlaceMakers, the Reduction Channel revolutionary NuraSpike between the threads gives is designed to be driven drilling dust a place to into the ground to go, virtually eliminating support the adjustable torque-related issues such decking pile, Nurajack. as binding, stripping and With Nuraspike and

TITEN TURBO™ SCREW ANCHORTITEN TURBO™ snapping. Features and Nurajack, digging benefits include: holes and concreting piles for low-profile PlaceMakers is excited to bring you Pinoli – a new range • Serrated cutting teeth decks can become of interior plywood panels made in New Zealand from reduce torque for easy a thing of the past. sustainably grown Radiata pine. and reliable installation. Using Nuraspike is easy – simply place a Hitting Plate The Pinoli range has the authenticity inherent to genuine (sold separately) on top of the Nuraspike and hammer wood products and creates spaces characterised by warmth With contemporary colours and effortless style, the • Installation without into any suitable ground. Then place the Nurapad or and feeling. GB Masonry Breeze Block range has been designed to cleaning dust from adjustable Nurajack (available in sizes from 12mm complement modern designs. predrilled holes. to 550mm) on top of the Nuraspike. Available in a broad range of profiles, Pinoli is perfect for a variety of residential and commercial settings, styles and The Wedge & Diamond Breeze Block designs are • Availability with either Nurajacks and Nuraspikes are available nationwide finishes. Pinoli panels are untreated and suitable for staining, available through PlaceMakers now and are already a hex head or, for a through PlaceMakers. painting or clear coating. The pre-primed range has drawing an enthusiastic response from our customers smoother installed profile, a 6-lobe drive a factory-applied powder coating, allowing a topcoat to be looking for a distinctive walling option that offers countersunk head (bit included). For more information go to www.nurajack.co.nz applied immediately. a unique aesthetic and ventilation.

8 9 REGULATION - 2019 TIMELINE MBIE

2019 IN REVIEW – REGULATORY CHANGES JUNE – Consultation closes on MBIE’s Building System JULY – Over 120 building standards used for Legislative Reform Programme. The resulting recommended Building Code compliance made are available for free 2019 was a year of changes for the building and construction sector, largely led by the changes to the Building Act are intended to be presented to download following a collaboration between MBIE Government. On the basis of new partnerships with industry, the Government has sought its Parliament mid-2020, with the aim of having the first changes and Standards New Zealand. come into effect shortly after, with other changes to follow views and instigated a number of new initiatives as a result. We take a bird’s eye view of some through 2020 and 2021. of the changes over the year…

APRIL – The Ministry of Business, Employment and JUNE – Regular six-monthly updates to the Innovation (MBIE) releases the Building System Building Code are introduced. These are to assist Legislative Reform Programme, which proposes MBIE in being more responsive to industry and major changes to New Zealand’s building laws, for reduce the number and scale for any changes public consultation. The proposed changes affect five required. They also provide the flexibility to enable areas: building products and methods, risk and liability, timely, incremental changes to be made, while also occupational regulation, the building levy, and offences, allowing more complex changes to be rolled over penalties and public notification. into the next update cycle if required.

OCTOBER – The first Building System Legislative OCTOBER – Government procurement rules updated to AUGUST – Vocational Education Reform Bill JULY – Changes to the Building Act were announced, making it Reform Programme decisions are announced: streamlining replace focus on ‘lowest price’ to a ‘broader outcome model’ and introduced to Parliament – includes re-design of easier to undertake modest building work on earthquake-prone consents for prefabrication and off-site manufacturing, require government departments to consider factors including: skills how apprenticeships will work. buildings, without needing to do seismic strengthening at the same time. requiring better information and clear responsibilities for development and training undertaken by construction companies building product manufacturers and suppliers, strengthening and their subcontractors, whether there is strong governance the framework for product certification, reducing the building over the project, and sustainable building practices such as using levy, and updating Building Act offences and penalties. sustainable materials and minimising waste.

CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE XX

OTHER CHANGES UNDER WAY: • Progress on additional exemptions under Schedule 1 is under way, meaning that this year there will be even more work that can be DECEMBER – Building Amendment DECEMBER – The Accord Transformation Plan, which builds on the done without a building consent. Act – a new system for managing momentum of the Construction Sector Accord, is launched. It will set out initiatives • A review of the industry’s response to the retention money provisions introduced in 2017 to protect sub-contractors was completed. The buildings after an emergency is introduced, that will be implemented in the short, medium and longer term to drive the review looked at factors such as awareness of the regime, extent of compliance, signs of behaviour change in the sector, and the impact the which gives clear legislative powers for right behaviours and practices among all players in the sector. The Accord has legislation is having on firms. The Minister for Building and Construction will be releasing the report publicly in the near future. investigating building failures. generated strong interest, with nearly 500 people and businesses signing up on the Accord website to get involved in sector transformation. • A significant new piece of work is under way to consider how the built environment can contribute to Government's climate change goals.

10 www.building.govt.nz 11 REGULATION - CODEWORDS MBIE

at the higher end and $500 to $1,500 no option but to proceed. A VIEW FROM THE BOARD at the lower end. LBPs who engage early with the Of the LBPs sanctioned, ten also had process have a much better chance of their name published in Codewords to providing credible evidence that may As an LBP, you need alert the industry to the severity of their persuade the Board not to proceed to be strong and refuse offending. This represents a minority to a hearing. If the complaint does to start work before of cases (8%), as the Board only proceed to a hearing, evidence orders publication (over and above provided much earlier in the process is you have sighted the the inclusion in the register and in the seen as more genuine. stamped copy of the decision documentation) when there is building consent and a perceived need for the public BOARD OF EXPERIENCE and/or profession to know the findings Some LBPs come to a hearing and try to any amendments of the hearing. excuse poor work by saying they had been ordered from the site and that the KEY THEMES errors would have been picked up at One of the key themes from the the end of the job. While in some cases will be picked up later, maybe by the complaints was LBPs starting work this may be correct, the Board is made council, or go undetected. before the building consent had been up of practitioners with many years of issued. The Board understands there experience who understand the job. The complaints process is a valuable is often pressure to get started, but They can tell the difference between tool to ensure consumers have the law is clear. As an LBP, you need unfinished work and snag-list items, and confidence in the system and LBPs are to be strong and refuse to start work cases where the LBP clearly did not do held to account in a fair and timely before you have sighted the stamped the job correctly in the first place, or in manner. If you do the job correctly the copy of the building consent and any sequence, and the cost to remediate first time, fix issues, communicate well, amendments. Note that building work would have been high. and take pride in your LBP status, there includes demolition and preliminary will be very little chance you will come work on the foundations. The LBP scheme was founded on having before the Board. skilled people doing the job correctly Many LBPs still think that if they ignore the first time. LBPs, especially those a notice of complaint issued by the supervising unlicensed workers, need to Board, nothing will happen. In fact, the take responsibility for the quality control opposite is the case. No response from of their work. It is not acceptable to do The LBP scheme was founded on having skilled people doing the job correctly the first time. If you do so, there will be very little chance you will come before the Board an LBP generally leaves the Board with poor building work and hope mistakes

This article is an excerpt from Codewords Issue 93. Reading Codewords articles that are relevant to your licence class is The 2019 Annual Report of the Building Practitioners Board shows that the number of complaints a mandatory requirement for Licensed Building Practitioners. These questions can be answered through the LBP portal, online against LBPs is low but there are trends we can learn from at underconstruction.placemakers.co.nz or recorded on the magazine, then provided at the time of renewal.

he Licensed Building Practitioner encourages you to have a read. complaints did not proceed to a hearing. CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE XX (LBP) scheme is overseen by the This was often because the Board TBuilding Practitioners Board (the NINE OF 250 COMPLAINTS believed the threshold for discipline had CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE 93 Board). RESULT IN CANCELLED LICENCE not been met or there was not enough The commentary on complaints may evidence. The Board’s functions are to hear seem a bit grim, but given that there 1 If you are notified of a complaint 2 The board is NOT responsible for the 3 Some complaints do not lead to appeals against licensing decisions are over 25,000 LBPs, the number of As a result of the hearings, 119 against you, you should: following: hearings, this is because: of the Registrar of LBPs, investigate complaints is very low, with around 1% complaints (84%) were upheld, which a) Ignore it, hopefully it will blow over. a) Hearing complaints about LBP a) The LBP has not responded to the and hear complaints about LBPs, and of LBPs coming to the attention of the means the LBP was found to have conduct. complaint. approve rules for LBPs. Every year we Board. This suggests a lot of good work committed an offence and held to b) Engage with the investigation, so you can provide evidence that may b) Hearing appeals against licensing b) The Board believes the threshold review our operations and report to the is being undertaken, and consumers account. Of those LBPs who were exonerate you. decisions made by the Registrar. for discipline has not been met or Minister for Building and Construction. rarely feel the need to report LBPs to disciplined, nine had their licence there is not enough evidence. the Board. cancelled, five were suspended, four c) Get legal advice, if you feel you c) Hearing contractual disputes. need to. Our 2019 Annual Report is now were ordered to undertake training, available on the LBP website. The This year was a busy one, with the and the majority were fined and d) Both b. and c. report highlights trends we are seeing Board receiving over 250 complaints required to pay costs. The fines ranged within the LBP scheme, and the board and holding 143 hearings. Many of the from approximately $5,000 to $7,000

12 www.building.govt.nz 13 REGULATION - CODEWORDS MBIE

ends unexpectedly. Perhaps there is a labour-only contractor to another LBP, if you did provide the ROW to the head KEEPING YOUR RECORDS STRAIGHT a dispute between contractors, or the the head contractor will do the ROW. contractor. client stops paying the bills. If the job This is not the case. Each LBP who does isn’t finished, but you won’t be returning RBW must complete an ROW. TYPICAL PENALTIES to finish it, you should submit an ROW. When a complaint against an LBP for On it, you can detail what work you did Another mistake is to provide the ROW failing to provide an ROW is upheld, complete, even though the overall job to the head contractor, who does the Board usually issues a fine and was unfinished. not then pass it on to the homeowner requires a payment towards the cost or council. The Building Act puts the of the hearing. If this was the only responsibility on the LBP to ensure the offence committed by the LBP, the fine is ROW is sent to the homeowner and typically $1,000 to $3,000 and costs The Board has no council. You can still be disciplined even are around $500. jurisdiction over contractual disputes – it only addresses the conduct of LBPs. Therefore, the LBP can be fined, even if the client hasn’t paid for the work

Sometimes it is uncertain if you will return or not. When in doubt, you can still submit an ROW on what you have done thus far. In the unlikely event you do return, you can add to your records.

SUBMIT YOUR OWN ROW, DON’T PASS TO OTHERS Even if the overall job isn’t finished, you submit an ROW detailing the work you did complete There is still the myth that if you’re

This article is an excerpt from Codewords Issue 93. Reading Codewords articles that are relevant to your licence class is a mandatory requirement for Licensed Building Practitioners. These questions can be answered through the LBP portal, online Each LBP who does RBW must complete a ROW. Make sure you only sign off on work you’ve completed or supervised at underconstruction.placemakers.co.nz or recorded on the magazine, then provided at the time of renewal.

It’s important to provide a Record of Work upon completion of Restricted Building Work CODEWORDS QUIZ ISSUE 93

ecords of Work must be filled are in a dispute or because the client The Board has no jurisdiction over in on time, every time, to avoid is behind in their payment. This is done contractual disputes – it only addresses 4 When should you provide an ROW? 5 The Building Act requires LBPs to send 6 If the Board finds that you failed to complaints being made against under the belief that they can use the the conduct of LBPs. Therefore, the LBP ROWs to: provide a ROW, the likely R a) When the client has paid for the work. disciplinary action will be: you and potential disciplinary action. ROW as leverage. This is bad practice, can be fined, even if the client hasn’t a) The main contractor who engaged The Building Practitioners Board received as the disgruntled client can complain paid for the work. b) When the job is complete. them. a) Cancelling your licence. a disappointingly high number of to the Board that the LBP did not c) When your part of the job is complete, b) The homeowner and the territorial b) A fine and payment of costs complaints this year about ROWs. complete the ROW. The Board will then KNOWING WHEN WORK or you do not anticipate returning to authority. towards the enquiry. have to discipline the LBP for failing to IS OVER do more work. c) Nothing, as long as you agree DON’T WITHHOLD RECORDS provide their ROW, regardless of any Usually it is easy to know when to c) The homeowner and/or the territorial authority, if they ask for one. to fill in the ROW. OF WORK commercial dispute, as this is not a valid complete the ROW. The job is finished, Some Licensed Building Practitioners reason to withhold an ROW according so you complete the ROW before (LBPs) hold back the ROW because they to the Building Act. moving on. However, sometimes a job

14 www.building.govt.nz 15 HEALTH & SAFETY SITE SAFE

To control concrete risks, consider option, the next best alternative is to 3. Capture the wastewater in DON’T HARDEN UP, COVER UP! the following easy methods: store clean water in your work vehicle. the bunded area. 1. PERSONAL PROTECTIVE Don’t use abrasive cleaning products or 4. Clear the wastewater by EQUIPMENT (PPE) alcohol wet wipes as they can damage pumping it into a container Reduce the risk of skin contact by the skin and increase the risk of injury – such as a 1,000 litre cube. wearing: a mild soap is best. 5. EMERGENCY ACTION FOR • Full-length overalls with long 3. HEALTH MONITORING CONCRETE BURNS sleeves and trouser legs that Ensure all workers that may be exposed If there is any suspicion that a concrete won’t let dust or water in. to concrete know what the risks are burn has occurred, seek help from and what they must do to look after emergency services. • Waterproof boots. themselves. For more practical safety guides from • Waterproof gloves. It’s recommended you get professionals Site Safe, visit sitesafe.org.nz and to conduct regular skin exams and search ‘practical safety advice’. • Eye protection. encourage workers to check themselves for signs and symptoms of concrete skin Any clothing that has been contact dermatitis. contaminated by concrete should be washed and dried before it is used 4. WASTEWATER again. Do not allow contaminated Wastewater produced when working clothing to touch skin directly. with concrete is toxic – it takes many thousands of litres of water to dilute 2. HYGIENE one litre of alkaline back to a safe Dermatitis can occur without skin pH level (pH6-pH7). It’s important to wear the correct PPE when working with concrete; unfortunately, many builders take the risks too lightly being in contact with concrete contamination, so it is vital workers Use these four steps to ensure runoff wash their hands before visiting the doesn’t pollute waterways, potentially Cement may be as common as muck, but take it lightly and it can cause serious burns toilet and eating. killing fish and plants:

The best solution is to provide a large 1. Check the weather and pick resh concrete is highly alkaline, form of skin grafts. In extreme cases, Symptoms include: Stinging, itching, sink – big enough for workers to a dry day. with a pH of about 12.5. As the medical complications associated redness, swelling, cracking, blisters, submerge their forearms in – with warm Workers might not immediately realise they have been burned, because alkaline chemicals damage the a comparison, household ammonia with the burn may lead to amputation scaling, fissures, bleeding. water, soap and clean towels to get the 2. Contain the wastewater by making F nerve endings first, but they are very painful later! is 11.5 and caustic soda is 12.7. This is or even death. concrete off. If running water is not an a bunded area. very bad for skin and often not enough Cuts or wounds heal very slowly and thought is given to the potential harm infections are likely. Site Safe is a not-for-profit, membership-based organisation that supports a culture of health and safety in New Zealand construction. to people laying it. Dermatitis can occur without For more information go to: www.sitesafe.org.nz skin being in contact with 3. ALLERGIC CONTACT There are a number of potential concrete contamination, DERMATITIS risks: so it is vital workers wash Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin condition caused by an allergic PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE 1. CONCRETE BURNS their hands before visiting reaction to concrete. Cement-based Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page! One of the most dangerous things about the toilet and eating concrete contains hexavalent chromium, concrete, according to construction which causes allergies and, in some safety organisation Site Safe, is that cases, cancer. 1) What concrete attribute makes it so 2) Why might a worker not immediately 3) Which of the following is not people don’t know they are being 2. IRRITANT CONTACT potentially dangerous to workers? realise they have been burned by a recommended form of PPE to concrete? control concrete risk? burned. DERMATITIS Daily exposure may take years to a) It’s very sticky. a) Because alkaline chemicals damage the a) Waterproof boots. Irritant contact dermatitis is a skin cause a reaction; but when it does, it is b) It’s highly alkaline. That’s because alkaline chemicals condition caused by the chemicals irreversible. Allergic contact dermatitis nerve endings first, so there can be little initial pain. b) Eye protection. damage the nerve endings first, so there that make up concrete. Some particles is a common reason for concrete c) It’s highly flammable. c) Ear muffs. can be little initial pain. However, once that make up cement are abrasive and workers to leave the industry. b) Because it only hurts when you try to wash it off. they do kick in, concrete burn injuries can injure the skin. If the skin is not are extremely painful and can take given enough time to recover, irritant Symptoms include: Swelling, redness, c) Because it feels more like a tingling. months to heal – some treatments can dermatitis can develop. This condition is oozing, cracking, stinging, itching, even require surgical treatment in the found in many concrete workers. blisters, scaling. NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

16 www.sitesafe.org.nz 17 NEWS INDUSTRY FOCUS

SMALL HOMES, BIG CONFUSION

A new building trend is gaining traction, but those leading the charge in its early stages are coming up against legislation making it hard for wide adoption by the market ST COMING 1 MARCH he tiny house movement continues an application for a Determination to tiny homes, and it has left those trying to See placemakers.co.nz/monstertoolsale/ for event details to grow, offering an affordable MBIE, saying his unit was a vehicle, not build businesses and trying to get their Toption in the face of New Zealand’s a building, as stated by Hurunui District foot on the property ladder having to housing shortage. However, builders Council. navigate without an appropriate set of and homeowners are unsure what guidelines,” said Wood. the rules are when it comes to these Dall had a trailer constructed off- MAKITA 18V 5AH MAKITA 18V AUTOFEED SCREWDRIVER SKIN DFR450ZX • Increased rotational speed ensuring smooth screw driving structures and are encountering many site, which was registered and given “MBIE needs to step in and offer clarity BRUSHLESS 2 PIECE KIT DLX2180TX obstacles along the way. a warrant of fitness before being moved where there’s uncertainty and work Combo includes: • Tool-less stopper base adjustment • High performance brushless DC motor • New silent clutch features to land where the unit was constructed with builders to come to an agreed set • Hammer drill DHP484 high durability with direct drive The grey area in the tiny home industry on the trailer. The unit included of rules that will facilitate the growing • Impact driver DTD153 transmission in reverse rotation has created ongoing disputes between a kitchen, bathroom, toilet, bedroom number of tiny homes.” • 2× 5.0Ah Li-ion batteries • Reversing switch builders, occupants and councils, and living area. • Fast charger 5162183 as each party navigates rules that INTERPRETING THE ACT 5162272 GREAT RATE are unclear and can be interpreted The council said this was a building The Building Act defines a building as GREAT RATE $ 87 differently. under the Building Act and required a “temporary or permanent movable $ 340+GST a building consent and that all work or immovable structure”. This definition +GST 599 SKIN IS TOOL ONLY, BATTERY NOT INCLUDED WHAT IS A BUILDING? must comply with the building code. includes a vehicle or motor vehicle that Recent cases, such as that of Jono The notice to fix said Dall would have is immovable and is occupied by people Voss in Lower Hutt, shine a light on the to remove, demolish, or apply for on a permanent or long-term basis. MILWAUKEE M18 5AH GEN 3 question ‘what defines a building?’. a certificate of acceptance. 2 PIECE KIT M18FPP2A2-502C Voss owns a tiny house on his friends’ The plight of tiny homes have caught MAKITA 18V RANDOM ORBITAL ADVERTCombo includes: section in Taita and appealed to the A certificate of acceptance can be used the support of Green Party building SANDER SKN DBO180Z • High performance Environment Court in October over in situations where work has been done spokesman Gareth Hughes, who has • Electronic push button switch brushless DC motor his failure to comply with a council without a building consent, or where said that tiny homes offer an innovative • High dust extraction rate • Hammer drill DHP484 abatement notice. At the time of writing, a building consent authority cannot solution to the housing crisis. • Dust nozzle can be set • Impact driver DTD153 both parties are awaiting the verdict. issue a code compliance certificate at 12 different angles • Pad brake • 2× 5.0Ah Li-ion batteries In a parliament session earlier in the 5080112 • Fast charger 4913401 Voss says his tiny house is registered as In his application to MBIE, Dall noted year, Hughes put forward questions GREAT RATE a trailer by the NZ Transport Agency, that his unit was self-contained, off-grid, to Building and Construction Minister $ GREAT RATE and therefore must be viewed as occupied on a semi-permanent basis Jenny Salesa, asking if local authorities 175 +GST $ 22 a vehicle. However, Hutt City Council and could be easily moved. should — given the housing crisis — +GST SKIN IS TOOL ONLY, BATTERY NOT INCLUDED 825 disagrees. If the Council is right, it be supporting tiny houses instead of will mean Voss will have to apply for The determination concluded that the “punishing people who live in them, and a certificate of acceptance for the unit, despite having some characteristics threatening to demolish their homes”. MILWAUKEE M18 BRUSHED BOSCH DIGITAL MEASUREMENT work he has done without a consent, of a vehicle, was “more akin to PLANER SKIN M18BP-0 3 PIECE KIT 06159940MV a building consent for the work he hasn’t a building” given that its superstructure Salesa responded, saying local • Locks at 0mm • 14,000 RPM • 20 locking positions GLM25: • 25m compact laser range finder • Innovative one-button done yet as well as a resource consent. was more comparable to a building authorities are responsible for concept • Easy material calculation • Unique auto-sum feature • Solid aluminium barrel • 2mm cut capacity in a single and was not designed to move goods or interpreting the Building Act and pass • Rebate cut capacity – up to 13mm GLL30G: • 10m green beam crossline laser with 4× greater visbility • Bevel & edge guide – for straight, rebate • Palm size design • Simple one sliding switch operation This case highlights the disagreement people. The council’s notice to fix was acknowledged there may be some & up to 45° bevel cuts • Chip ejection switch Kit includes: typically occurring between owners and therefore upheld. “differences in interpretation between • Reversible carbide blades • 25m laser distance measurer GLM25 councils across NZ. local authorities” but said that is why • Motor brake • Green beam cross line laser GLL30G CHASING CLARITY the MBIE can settle disputes under the • Lock off trigger • Tripod (140cm max height) BT150 Recent determinations by MBIE have Eric Wood of Cosy homes in North Building Act of 2004. 5162220 4950646 found in favour of local building Canterbury says the discussions GREAT RATE authorities issuing a notice to fix, with that should be taking place aren’t Under Construction will keep you $ TRADE PRICE structures in question being classified as happening. informed as this issue develops and 349+GST $ EASILY buildings under the Building Act. will report back when the verdict +GST ORDERED SKIN IS TOOL ONLY, BATTERY NOT INCLUDED 239 PRODUCT “There’s been little to no consultation between Voss and the Hutt City Council Amberley resident Alan Dall made with people in the industry of building is delivered. Bonus offers exclusively to trade account holders only. Excludes Know How Rewards. All prices exclude GST. Products featured may not be stocked in all stores but can be ordered in at the advertised price. Offers valid from Saturday 1ST February – Tuesday 31ST March 2020.

19 NEWS INDUSTRY FOCUS

According to Ben Rickard from BuiltIn minimum standard of financial stability a limited insurance market. Obviously, COMPULSORY INSURANCE ON HOLD Insurance, the risk would be reduced and competency, though Ben says that any proposals must not harm the because builders would need to satisfy doesn’t necessarily mean that previously supply side.” an insurer’s screening process, which bankrupted builders wouldn’t be able to usually includes proving that their get insurance. However, Ben has a different view business is financially stable. of the market’s capacity: “Builtin has “Each application for insurance would the systems and experience to scale “As a result, there would be an improved be assessed on its merits. Whether up both the assessment of builders market of builders for homeowners to previous insolvency was the result of wanting to offer warranty insurance choose from, ideally containing fewer unavoidable market conditions, such as and the processing of a large increase builders who are likely to go bust.” the GFC, or a result of the builder not in warranty applications. While the paying their tax bill or under-pricing appetite and experience of NZ-based WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU? jobs, would need to be understood by insurers for this type of cover may From a builder’s perspective, mandatory the insurer before making their decision be limited, there’s always capacity insurance could have a significant on whether to offer insurance.” in specialist markets overseas, as impact. long as the numbers stack up, which GOOD FOR THE INDUSTRY? a mandatory scheme would deliver.” Ben suggests the key benefit to the industry would be the likely removal WHAT NEXT? of builders whose businesses aren’t When asked in January 2020 what It seems likely financially viable or whose building happens next, MBIE commented: mandatory insurance quality is poor from the market. “Cabinet has deferred making decisions would contribute to Those builders who can’t satisfy on whether to make guarantee and an insurer wouldn’t be able to get insurance products compulsory. Instead, a move away from ‘race insurance, therefore wouldn’t be able Cabinet has directed MBIE to to the bottom’ pricing to build – at least on projects above undertake further work, including and assist in establishing any financial level the Government on non-regulatory options that may determined. support the growth of the market. MBIE sustainable margins in is to report back to the Minister for the industry “It seems likely this would contribute to Building and Construction later in 2020. a move away from ‘race to the bottom’ This advice would inform any future pricing and assist in establishing Cabinet’s decisions on whether to make sustainable margins in the industry.” guarantee and insurance products For those builders already offering compulsory”. insurance, it could ‘even the pricing CAN THE INSURANCE MARKET field’ with those who do not currently HANDLE IT? Until then, builders have four existing Mandatory insurance could help filter out builders who don’t satisfy an insurer’s screening process offer insurance. It should also ensure One of the key reasons MBIE has options for insurance: more sustainable margins for the decided to defer its decision on industry as a whole, because, in order mandatory insurance is the need to • Join the Registered Master Builders Amid concerns about providers’ ability to meet demand, the Government has postponed ruling to satisfy an insurer they won’t go bust, ensure the insurance market has the Association to access member-only on the introduction of mandatory insurance cover for builders. As MBIE conducts further research a builder would need to demonstrate capacity to provide for it. One of the insurance. into the subject, including non-regulatory options, we look at the possible effects mandatory a commitment to or history of making main players in the builder’s warranty insurance could have on the industry sustainable margins. market, Stamford Insurance was • Join the New Zealand Certified supportive of the concept but hesitant Builders Association to access urrent legislation requires • Residential new builds homeowners, should any of these Mandatory insurance would also relieve about ability to deliver, saying: member-only insurance. builders to advise clients compulsory options goes ahead. the builder of the unenviable task of Cwhether or not they can provide • Alterations over $30k; selling the homeowner a product that “Stamford is very supportive of • Become accredited with Builtin a builder’s warranty insurance product, SHORT-TERM PAIN, can put them in questionable light. government intentions to improve Insurance. but evidence suggests this has not led • Alterations over $100k; LONG-TERM GAIN? Instead, insurance would simply be consumer protection and believes to increased uptake. or From the homeowner’s perspective, a standard part of the package (though every new home and significant • Register and be approved by there would be an initial increased one that a homeowner could potentially building contract should come with Stamford Insurance. Estimates put the current proportion • Alterations involving structural or upfront cost – approximately $2,000 actively opt out of, if any mandatory an independent ten-year warranty. of builds with insurance at 40-50%. weathertightness work. for a $500,000 build. On the flipside, scheme included an opt-out clause). However, a compulsory scheme would Each option has its pros and cons, but As part of its proposed Building the risk of homeowners being left out of be untenable in the present market all have membership or assessment Law Reforms, the Government proposed Under Construction looks at what pocket if a builder goes bust should be Insurance companies vetting builders with such a high demand for new criteria you must meet before accessing making insurance mandatory for: effects it could have on builders and reduced. would also provide a kind of proxy homes against the background of their guarantee or insurance.

20 21 NEWS INDUSTRY FOCUS

best practice,” says Florence. As part of NZCB’s existing mentorship a respectful worker, it’s essential SHARING THE KNOWLEDGE programme, John currently provides they can learn from those who have Tauranga builder and NZCB member business advice for a self-employed experienced success. This should help John Marsh, known as ‘Swampy’ by builder in his early 30s, meeting once give them the skills to carve out their his colleagues, has been a mentor a month. However, he also finds the time own career,” said Marsh. through the existing programme for to mentor six younger builders in their three-plus years. As a veteran with twenties at his place of work. He also believes the benefits are mutual, more than 50 years’ experience in as the younger generation is always the industry, Marsh says mentoring teaching him new things. programmes such as Rusty Hammers are The mentoring focuses invaluable and facilitate more than just “I’m always learning from the younger knowledge sharing. not only on technical workers. They’ve helped me a lot trade skills but also with technology; they have plenty of “It does a lot for improving on business skills, innovative ideas and provide a different communication on site between perspective. the younger builders and the more leveraging the experienced ones,” said Marsh. “People mentors’ decades of “It’s important to ensure that we teach don’t talk to each other as much as they experience owning them the essentials, but also allow them used to. They tend to spend time on to do things their own way.” their phones during breaks and don’t small-to-medium sized tend to ask questions of the older building businesses people on the team.

“The mentoring programmes encourage “Investing in the next generation of productive discussion, while establishing builders is very rewarding. Whether a culture of not being afraid to ask it’s teaching them theory, the basics questions.” of good business practice, or being

'Swampy' (left) says the benefits of mentor programmes goes beyond just 'dos' and 'don'ts' NEW HOME CONSENTS REACH 45-YEAR HIGH New Zealand Certified Builders (NZCB) has introduced a new membership category, 'Rusty Hammers', to encourage experienced older builders to mentor the younger generation New homes consented continue setting multi-decade highs, with the November year being the highest since 1974 nspired by positive results seen in its decades, have built up a depth of The mentoring focuses not only on current mentoring programme, Rusty practical experience that inherently technical trade skills but also on total of 37,010 new homes were IN THE REGIONS and Southland also saw decreases. IHammers is designed to encourage extends well beyond what younger business skills, leveraging the mentors’ consented in the year ended Eight of the 16 regions consented older builders, who are spending less builders have had a chance to learn decades of experience owning small-to- A November 2019, the first time more dwellings in November 2019 A SELLER’S MARKET time on the tools, to retain their trade as part of their formal apprenticeship medium sized building businesses. in 45 years that the annual number compared to November 2018, led In December, Realestate.co.nz reported association membership at reduced training, or in their first few years exceeded 37,000. by Canterbury (up 77 to 526; +17%), a record national average asking price cost in exchange for providing on the job. Having access to someone “Owning a small-to-medium sized Wellington (up 45 to 337; +15%), of $703,780 as well as a record low mentoring to other builders in earlier who’s ‘been there and done that’ is business, as many of our members do, In November alone, 3,204 new Manawatu-Whanganui (up 30 to 141; in new listings and total homes stages of their careers. incredibly valuable for our younger is challenging for anyone in any sector dwellings were consented — +27%), and Hawke’s Bay (up 30 to 91; available for sale. It is the first time the members who are being mentored,” of the economy. In our sector, there is a seasonally adjusted 8.5% decrease, +49%). Taranaki, Tasman, Marlborough site had recorded all three milestones in NZCB Chief Executive Grant Florence says Florence. ongoing regulatory change to navigate after falling 1.5% in October. and West Coast were other regions to one month. says finding new ways to retain and and new demands and opportunities consent more dwellings continue supporting highly skilled To be eligible for NZCB’s Rusty from developments in building materials The November figure comprised month-on-month. There were 24.5% fewer homes on the older builders, while also harnessing Hammers membership category, and technologies. of 1,980 stand-alone houses, 722 market than in December 2018 — their experience to nurture the next builders need to be working for only townhouses, flats and units, 291 The remaining eight regions saw sitting at 18,230, a stark contrast to generation is important — especially around 20 hours per week and to have “Enabling early-career builders to apartments, and 211 retirement a decrease in consented dwellings the high of nearly 60,000 in April given the ongoing high demand for been a full NZCB member for over learn from those who’ve run successful village units. in November 2019 compared to 2008. Regional New Zealand was the builders and an increasingly ten years. They must also commit to building businesses for a long time, and November 2018, led by Auckland main driver of the trends, especially complex regulatory and business mentoring a younger builder they are enabling those older builders to retain The 37,010 new dwellings consented in (down 52 to 1,120; -4%), Northland regarding prices. Record asking landscape. matched with for 12 months, meeting at their membership of NZCB, is a win-win the year ended November 2019 is an (down 33 to 96; - 25%), and Nelson prices were set in Bay of Plenty, regular intervals as agreed between the for everyone, including consumers who 13% increase from the November (down 20 to 9; - 69%). Waikato, Bay Nelson, Southland, Marlborough, and “Builders, who’ve been on the job for mentor and mentee. ultimately benefit from this sharing of 2018 year. of Plenty, Gisborne, Otago Manawatu/Wanganui.

22 23 TECHNICAL BRANZ

wind provide localised protection FUNCTIONAL FENCES immediately adjacent to the fence, but create downwind turbulence (see figure 1). Angling the top or installing a strip of lattice across the top of the fence can reduce the turbulence (see figure 2).

For maximum shelter from wind, a fence should have about 40-50% of its face area open and be constructed with gaps – fewer at the base and increasing with height. Such a fence should provide a sheltered lee area with Figure 1: Effect of wind on solid fence Figure 2: Effect of wind on fence with angled top width of four to five times the height of the fence. gap at the bottom of a fence or • Keep fibre-cement and profiled steel A fence constructed of offset horizontal planting (particularly if there is fence panels clear of the ground. planking or palings diffuses the wind as a vegetable garden behind the fence) it passes through the fence. Even if the to avoid trapping cold air and to • Select fittings such as gate hinges fence has more than 50% permeability, reduce the risk or severity of the frost. and catches that are durable – the effect of draughts are minimised stainless steel fittings are preferable because the wind cannot directly flow TIMBER POST AND RAIL FENCES to zinc-plated fittings, which are Fences, screens and walls are fundamental aspects of landscape design and can be built with a variety of materials through the gaps. • Use H4-treated or naturally durable not suitable for external use on timber for all in-ground material. treated timber. Lattice fences have an even distribution Using H4 treated timber (or Builders are often asked to advise homeowners on fencing – this article may provide of solid material and gaps to moderate equivalently durable timber) for • Ensure the spans of fencing a useful starting point the airflow, although they do not the bottom rail of a fence is panels are in the limits set by the have the progressive increasing of desirable where it is likely that the manufacturer – typically 600mm f a fence is to be built on a common under Fencing Act > schedule 1 > forms. DOWN THE MIDDLE open area recommended above. The rail will be covered by or in contact maximum for fibre-cement. boundary, both neighbours are The fence should be built with the posts approximate permeability of lattice with mulch. Iobliged to each contribute an amount The notice must also describe: centred on the boundary line or as near fences is: • For profiled steel claddings: equivalent to at least half the cost of to it as practical. Usually, a fence of up • Posts should be placed 100mm into • Don’t use unfinished zinc/ a standard ‘reasonably satisfactory’ • The boundary to be fenced. to 2m high can be built without the need • 20mm lattice with 20mm apertures the ground for every 300mm above aluminium alloy-coated steel fence. The proportion of the costs of a resource or building consent, but = 23% permeability. ground. in corrosion zones D or E. can only be claimed from a neighbor • The type of fence. the relevant territorial authority should if prior written notice is given that be consulted for the rules specific to the • 50mm lattice with 50mm apertures • Ensure the excavation is filled with • Ensure factory coatings are a fence is going to be built and the • Who will build the fence. locality. = 25% permeability. rodded concrete (preferably) or undamaged. neighbor is advised of the cost of the thoroughly rammed earth – limiting • Use colour-matched fixings proposed fence. • The estimated cost. A myriad of fencing options are • 25mm lattice with 50mm apertures fence height to 1m is recommended suitable for the corrosion zone. available, from simple post and wire = 42% permeability. when rammed earth is used to fill Neighbours should be consulted in the • How materials are to be purchased. fences, to prefabricated metal or timber post holes. • Limit spans (supporting framing first instance, but if an agreement can’t palings or lattice work, to walls of stone, Vertical paling or board fences provide spacing) to 1200mm. be reached over dividing the costs • The start date for the work. brick or concrete block. greater protection from the wind when • Keep timber rail spans smaller rather • Avoid use where the surface (or what constitutes a ‘reasonable the gaps and palings are narrower and than larger. The longer the span, the will not be regularly cleaned standard’ of fence), there is a formal If a boundary fence issue can’t be The requirements are that they remain of similar sizes. Where wide palings are greater the potential for sag in the by rain. process that can be followed in which resolved with tact and compromise, durable, are aesthetically pleasing, resist used, the wind that passes through the completed fence – for example, limit a non-cooperative neighbor is served there are provisions in law involving or deflect wind loads and comply with gaps will be more noticeable. the span of a 100x50mm rail on • For fibre-cement: with a Fencing Notice. notices and cross-objections that Resource Management Act requirements edge to less than 2.4m. • Use hot-dip galvanised fixings must be carried out in time frames as for the site in terms of heights. Windbreak fabrics can be fixed in corrosion zones B and C The notice must state that it is served specified in the Fencing Act. over wire or timber fences to Other factors to consider for timber- and stainless steel in zones D under the Fencing Act 1978, must For privacy, solid fences provide the provide additional wind protection. framed fences are: and E. include the names and addresses of If there is no agreement at the end of greatest benefit, but for protection from Such protection may be useful on both parties involved and must be the processes described, options such the wind, the requirements are different. a temporary basis until wind-tolerant • Ensure fixings holding trellis panels • Paint for durability. signed and dated. A template for such as mediation, arbitration, the Disputes planting is established. together will be durable – staples • Limit spans (supporting framing a notice is provided in the Fencing Act, Tribunal or court proceedings will SHELTER FROM THE STORM should be stainless steel for external spacing) to 600mm. which is located at legislation.govt.nz need to be further investigated. Fences that completely block the In areas subject to frost, leave a small use.

2424 www.branz.co.nz Story continues overleaf 25 TECHNICAL BRANZ

Options include: • Coursed random uncut stone, where example, broken ashlar is a time- FUNCTIONAL FENCES CONTINUED some effort is made to produce consuming laying method. • Regular pattern using stones of a coursed effect. a consistent size, laid stretcher bond • The construction method – whether (coursed ashlar) • Broken coursed (in quarried stone). it is being constructed as a dry BRICK AND CONCRETE BLOCK STONE WALLS boulders or quarry stone), or ashlar, stone wall without mortar to bed FENCES OR WALLS There are a number of design and where the adjoining sides have • Variable course height (although • Random uncut stone (in river stones the stones or mortared. • Ensure there is a solid bearing. construction options for stone walls. been cut or dressed so that they stonework is of a consistent height and boulders). They can be: are at right angles to each other. and length in each course) with • The foundation detail. • Provide a concrete foundation beam stretcher bond vertical joints Considerations include: to lay the wall over. • Free-standing. • Coursed, where some effort is made • What will prevent the wall from to align horizontal and/or vertical • Variable course height (although • The wall height and the width overturning. • Ensure the base of the wall • Used as a veneer or facing to joints, or random, where a stone is stonework is of a consistent height available to build the wall in. is sufficiently into the ground, a concrete or concrete masonry either cut to fit or selected for the in each course) using stones of • Whether the wall is retaining soil – anchored to a footing or has structural wall. space available. different lengths to give random • The availability of suitable stone. if so, it must be designed for the structural piers/columns or returns vertical joints (blocked course loads. to prevent overturning. In some • Used as a veneer to the polystyrene For coursed work, there are a number ashlar). • The time available for laying, for cases, concrete piles under each formwork of a reinforced concrete of combinations: column may be required to extend retaining wall. deep into the ground to provide • Random squared (or dressed) stone, a firm footing. The advice of an • Solid stone structural walls (usually also called random coursed ashlar, engineer should be obtained. limited to low height), laid with to a general arrangement of mortar or without (dry stone). courses. • Reinforce as for a concrete block foundation wall. • Built with incorporated piers or • Broken ashlar, where no attempt columns, either structural or for is made to course the work – each • Keep trees a sufficient distance decorative purposes. stone is cut for a specific location. away from the fence or wall to prevent roots affecting it. • Constructed from uncut stone, where • Ashlar, where cut stones are laid in adjoining sides of the stone are continuous horizontal courses with • Cap the wall to restrict water entry. not at right angles (such as river plumb vertical joints.

STEEL OR ALUMINIUM FENCING • Embed posts into the ground as detailed for timber.

• Cap the tops of posts to prevent Figure 5: Steps for installing fence posts embedded into the ground – also use this method for installing deck piles or retaining wall piles water entry and accumulation in the post (a known cause of accelerated This article was first published in BRANZ’s Landscape Construction. www.branz.co.nz. deterioration). Words and figures supplied by BRANZ. • For steel, hot-dip galvanise, powder coat or protect with a specialised PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE coating system. Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page! • For aluminium, uncoated use is acceptable in most environments. 4) What does NOT need to be included 5) What is the approximate permeability 6) Why should you leave a gap at the on a Fencing Notice? of lattice fences with 20mm lattice bottom of a fence in areas to subject with 20mm apertures? to frost? • Avoid coating damage during a) The start date of construction. transport, handling and installation. a) 23%. a) To avoid trapping cold air and to b) The estimated cost. reduce the risk or severity of the frost. b) 25%. • Match fixings to the material. c) Examples of previous fences you b) To allow room for frost-resistant have built. c) 43%. plants. If using a proprietary system, follow c) To prevent blocks of ice building the manufacturer’s installation up and splitting the timber. Figure 3: Lattice fence for wind shelter Figure 4: Offset paling windbreak fence instructions. NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

2626 www.branz.co.nz 27 TECHNICAL CONCRETE NZ

then plastic shrinkage cracking may placing concrete. achieving this, although it may be HOW TO AVOID CONCRETE CRACKS occur. difficult to get a uniform application • In hot weather, lower the during windy conditions. It is The risk of plastic shrinkage occurring temperature of the fresh concrete important excess water is not is greatest when: by using cool aggregates if added to the surface. possible. • The temperature difference PLASTIC SETTLEMENT CRACKS between the concrete and air • Erect wind breaks to reduce wind Another form of cracking which occurs temperature is large. In spring, velocity over the concrete surface. during the plastic stage of the concrete this type of cracking can occur setting process is plastic settlement in an area exposed to the sun, • The use of polythene sheets on the cracking. while shaded concrete remains top surface of the concrete will uncracked. Concrete exposed to prevent both evaporation and air the sun can be significantly hotter movement. These should be used than the air temperature. with caution when trying to obtain a consistent colour to • Low bleed concrete mixes (eg, the slab. superplasticised mixes and/ or mixes with high quantities of • Use a proprietary evaporation ultrafines) are used. The more retardant spray. These are concrete bleeds, the less likely it is inexpensive and provide a good that the surface will prematurely dry degree of protection if used in out. As such, greater precautions accordance with the manufacturer’s are required when using low bleed instructions. concrete mixes. • Add polypropylene fibres to the • There are low humidity days. concrete mix.

• There are high wind speeds. The use of polypropylene fibres works by evenly distributing WHAT DO PLASTIC SHRINKAGE many small reinforcement fibres Settlement cracks following straight rebar lines Cracks in concrete can form before and after the concrete sets CRACKS LOOK LIKE? throughout the mass of the concrete, Usually, the cracks occur either while in all directions, and intersecting finishing or within 30 minutes to six any micro-cracking that occurs Most concrete, after it is placed, bleeds. Depending where you are in the country, spring and summer can be high-risk periods for hours of finishing, form without any when the concrete shrinks. This means that water rises to the early-age concrete cracking. Higher daytime temperatures and dry winds, along with low regular pattern, and may range from surface as the solid particles settle. The evening temperatures, are a perfect recipe for the creation of cracks 25mm to 2m in length. They may be Their physical properties are bleed water evaporates and there is straight or jagged and often intersect designed to match the properties a loss of total volume (ie, the concrete f you want to minimise the time spent change, and as concrete has a low can be greater than the rate with which each other forming T junctions or acute (eg, the modulus of elasticity) of has ‘settled’). If there is no restraint, the investigating and rectifying unwanted tensile strength, if this volume change water within the concrete can migrate angles. The cracks vary in width from fresh concrete. Polypropylene net result is simply a very slight Icracks in concrete, now is the time is restrained, cracks will form. However, to the surface to make good the loss. a hairline to perhaps 3mm. Additionally, fibres usually provide sufficient lowering of the surface level. However, to understand the issues and the action appropriate measures can entirely The highest risk weather for plastic while they are surface-related, the extra strength to prevent micro- if there is something near the surface, you can take to avoid problems. The eliminate, or at the very least minimise, shrinkage cracking is sunny and/or cracks may extend deeper with cracks from widening and hence such as a reinforcing bar, which following looks at cracks which form in the formation of these unwanted cracks. windy days with low humidity levels. subsequent drying of the slab. restrict the formation of plastic restrains part of the concrete from concrete after it has been placed but shrinkage cracking. Fibres are settling while the concrete on either before it has set — when the concrete is Cracks which form before the concrete After concrete has been placed, HOW CAN PLASTIC SHRINKAGE typically added at the batching side continues to drop, there is potential in its plastic state. has fully hardened (usually not less than vibrated, screeded and floated, it is CRACKING BE AVOIDED? plant and therefore their use for a crack to form over the restraining about eight hours) are known as plastic left so the bleed water can rise to the The most effective way to reduce the requires planning. Your ready-mix element. PLASTIC CRACKING cracks. Plastic cracking occurs as either surface. The slab cannot be finished risk of plastic shrinkage cracking is to concrete supplier will be able to The formation of cracks in concrete shrinkage cracks or settlement cracks. until it is hard and the bleed water prevent rapid loss of moisture from the advise on the appropriate dosage. Settlement cracks tend to follow is somewhat inevitable and can form has evaporated. The bleed water surface of the concrete. a regular pattern, replicating the lines prior to the concrete setting, or after PLASTIC SHRINKAGE CRACKS will appear within about 15 minutes • Commence curing promptly after of restraint – usually the reinforcement it is in its hardened state. During the Once concrete is in place, evaporation of placing and the slab is ready for Practices to achieve this are: finishing is complete and ensure or a change in section. Generally, the setting stage, the moisture content can only occur from the free surface. In finishing after several hours, the surface is subject to continuous cracks are not deep, but, because they of the concrete changes and water the absence of appropriate precautions, depending on the concrete • Dampen the subgrade and curing. Providing a fog mist spray tend to follow and penetrate down to is given off, and hence the concrete and in unfavourable drying conditions, temperature. If the top surface is formwork, while also ensuring any to increase humidity above the the reinforcement, they may reduce the shrinks. This shrinkage leads to a volume the rate of evaporation at the surface allowed to dry before final finishing, excess water is removed prior to concrete is a good means of durability of a structure.

28 www.concretenz.org.nz Story continues overleaf 29 TECHNICAL CONCRETE NZ

HOW TO AVOID CONCRETE CRACKS

Plastic settlement is affected by the following factors:

• Rate of bleeding from the concrete.

• Time over which settlement can take place – ie, the time before it sets.

• Depth of reinforcement relative to total thickness of the section.

• Size of reinforcement.

• Constituents of the mix.

• Slump. Plastic shrinkage cracks form without a regular pattern

PREVENTION OF PLASTIC SETTLEMENT CRACKING Other procedures which may help With an understanding of the causes Plastic settlement cracks may be reduce plastic settlement cracking and precautions that can be taken to prevented, or rather closed, by include using: avoid plastic cracking, this common revibrating the concrete after settlement surface defect can be easily controlled. is virtually complete and it has begun to • Lower slump mixes. set. However, the timing is critical and The Information Bulletin IB 73 considerable experience is needed to • More cohesive mixes. Cracking contains more information ADVERT know when that critical time is. about concrete cracking and is • An air entrainer to improve available for download from If revibration is done too early, more cohesiveness and reduce www.concretenz.org.nz. settlement could occur. If it is done too bleeding. late, it could damage the bond between the concrete and reinforcement. • Increasing cover to top bars.

Concrete NZ is aligned with the New Zealand Concrete Contractors Association (NZCCA). To be a member of the NZCCA requires a high standard of knowledge and practical 1

† ACTUAL SIZE

ALSO DESCRIPTION DECKING SCREW SELECTIONPACK PART # GUIDEAVAILABLE… SIZE Bonus step drill – 1x T25 driver bit HEAD LENGTH GAUGE MATERIAL – 3x spacers BOARD BRAND Bonus set 4524665 200PK BOARD WIDTH (550PK) Spear drilling point – trim head for THICKNESS 50mm M5(10G) SS T304(A2) CYLINDER discrete finish – T20 drive www.nzconcretecontractors.org.nz 100 Square drive #2 for a standard finish – experience. To find out more visit 50mm 10G SS T304 500PK 4516546 100PK 100PK, 500PK, T17 drilling tip TRIM (90)mm 1000PK Hardwood drill point with ribbed shank for COUNTERSUNK RIBBED 50mm 10G SS T304 250PK 4516563 greater holding power – square drive #2

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70mm M5(10G) SS T304(A2) 100PK 4524663 Spear drilling point – truss head for decorative CYLINDER finish – sharks tooth thread – T25 drive 40 (32)mm 65mm 12G SS T304 500PK 4516515 Square drive for a standard finish – heavier TRUSS gauge (12g) – T17 drilling tip – #3 square bit required

COUNTERSUNK RIBBED 65mm 12G SS T304 500PK 4516571 Spear drilling point – truss head for decorative finish – sharks tooth thread – T20 drive

150 75mm 10G SS T304 500PK 4516603 1000PK TRUSS Spear drilling point – truss head for decorative (140)mm finish – sharks tooth thread – T25 drive

75mm 12G SS T304 100PK 4516541 250PK TRUSS Spear drilling point – truss head for decorative PROVE YOUR finish – sharks tooth thread – T25 drive VERSION 2.1, CREATED JUNE 2019 KNOWLEDGE DISCLAIMER 90mm 12G SS T304 100PK 4516543 250PK TRUSS # SCREWS JOIST 2 WE RECOMMEND PRE-DRILLING IN HARDWOOD AND SOFTWOOD ENDS. BOARD PER m SPACING ALWAYS TEST IF YOU WANT TO SCREW WITHOUT PRE-DRILLING OR USING 150 (140)mm WIDTH 50 IN COMPOSITES. 150 (140)mm 450mm 600 CENTRES 100 (90)mm 40 † When printed at 100% scale on A3 landscape format paper. 100 (90)mm 450 CENTRES 2 600 CENTRES 4.3 m SCREWS 100 (90)mm 600mm 2 2 33 PACK SIZE 450 CENTRES 3.1 m 2 PlaceMakers has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information in this guide, 2 8.6 m PER m 450mm 2 2.5 m 2 PlaceMakers reserves the right to change product information or availability without notice. PlaceMakers 2.0 m 2 6.3 m 2 24 100 2 5.0 m 2 10.7 m 150 (140)mm 600mm does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability 4.0 m 7.9 m 2 2 .4 m of the information in this guide. APPROX 200 2 6.3 m 2 21 5.0 m 2 15.7 m 2 www.placemakers.co.nz 250 12.5 m 2 42.9 m COVERAGE 10.0 m2 31.4 m For more information visit 500 2 2 © Copyright PlaceMakers 2019 2 25.0 m 2 47.1 m 3 PER PACK 20.0 m 34.6 m 1000 2 2 27.5 m 22.0 m Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page! 1100

7) Why does the concrete shrink in the 8) To avoid plastic shrinkage cracks, 9) A feature of settlement cracks is: 2 setting stage? in general you should: a) They tend to follow a regular pattern a) The moisture content of the concrete a) Prevent rapid loss of moisture from replicating the lines of the reinforcement. changes and water is given off. the surface of the concrete. b) They may reduce the durability of b) Because warm air is being used to b) Keep concrete warm while it dries. a structure. set it. c) Expose concrete to dry wind. c) Both answers. c) Because it was poured wrong. 1

NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

30 www.concretenz.org.nz

PM19 Stud Lok Screw Page - Feb Mar UC_v3.indd 1 6/12/19 2:48 PM TIPS THE SUCCESSFUL BUILDER

foxes that spoil the vines”. I think this When you estimate a job at $100,000 that updates expenditure and likely final GETTING THE LITTLE THINGS RIGHT is teaching that the repetition of lots and it finishes up at $115,000, they cost can remove doubt and ensure clear of little annoying things causes much will not like paying the difference. Even financial communication. more frustration than a bigger one-off though you said it was an estimate and problem. So, teach and resource your the $115,000 is justified, they will still 4.RIGHT OR WRONG - team to be aware of the little things that be disappointed, because they heard SEE IT FROM YOUR annoy clients. Then teach them to do the $100,000. CLIENT’S PERSPECTIVE little things that show your clients how When a customer tells you or a team you go about overcoming those things. What you say and what your client member that they are not happy about Most importantly, teach them to do it hears can be two very different things. something, do you or your team member regularly. So, in order to communicate clearly, immediately spring to the defence? check what your client has heard you A great build experience is built on lots say. It is much better to listen carefully and of little things done well repeatedly. recognise that your client is telling For example, ensure that your team For example, after presenting an you how they are feeling about the is practiced at turning up on time estimate, you might want to ask: service they are experiencing. It’s an and always doing what they promise. “Because most jobs end up costing opportunity for you to see things from Maybe you can help the foreman on x% (10% - 25%) above the estimated their perspective. They may be right, or a renovation job to plan well, so your amount, do you still want to proceed they may be wrong. Either way, being team doesn’t destroy the garden. knowing that it is possibly going to cost right or wrong is far less important than Or, give your guys the tools, training more than the quoted amount?” feeling valued. and time to ensure that the job site is kept tidy. Or: “The completed job is very likely to If they are right and you agree to cost x-amount extra, because of all the a change, or if they are wrong and you But with all of these little things, do it things we haven’t built into the estimate. respectfully show them where, then you more than once. Make them habitual Will this additional expenditure of have won a friend. Clients who become Take care of the little things, such as good communication, and you could turn clients into repeat customers and/or third-party endorsers – build them into your regular weekly x-amount be a problem for you?” friends become fans and make great reporting processes. The expenditure referrers. on these ‘little things’ – these caring Or, when discussing a variation or Having a happy client at the end of a job relies on getting the little things right every day, with routines – will pay off in the end. change order, write it up and have your TAKEAWAY your client and with your team client read it carefully before signing, Ask yourself - what one thing 3.COMMUNICATE CLEARLY so they know precisely how much can you implement right now that his scene might sound familiar: you experience, your client would rave them and they learn! You are creating There is no question that when your extra they will need to pay. would help your client feel better have nearly finished a renovation; about you and tell all their friends? a winning culture. client receives less than what they about your company? T it’s been a long job with some Is that possible? Yes – when the client expected, they will be disappointed. Having a good management system difficult patches and now the end is in feels really good about the experiences How often I hear of builders who ‘blow sight. There have been a few challenges, they’ve had. up’ at their team. Something‘s not quite Graeme Owen is a builders’ business coach at thesuccessfulbuilder.com. Since 2006, he has helped builders throughout and you have overcome these, yet the right, or they get a little behind. So, New Zealand get off the tools, make decent money, and get more time in their lives. Grab a copy of his free book: The 15 Minute Sales client is showing signs they are not Here are some tips for making sure that they ‘let them have it’. Sure, it might Call Guaranteed To Increase Your Conversion Rate: thesuccessfulbuilder.com/book-15-min-sales-call or join Trademates and totally happy. Maybe some necessary your customers feel good about you get them going for a time, but it builds connect with builders who are scaling too: www.facebook.com/groups/TradeMates variations and tagged out areas cost and your company – right up to the end up resentment, and it’s probably the more than initially thought, or the of the build. number one reason carpenters schedule has gone over, but what is change employers (a popular PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE worrying is that the client is questioning 1.LOVE YOUR TEAM employers’ bestseller is titled Love Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page! every dollar spent and talking about This might seem odd initially, but it ‘Em or Lose ‘Em.). holding back payments. Why would has a huge impact on your client’s they do that? wellbeing. It’s where you start creating Creating clients who love your company 10) Treating your team with respect is 11 ) Communicating clearly is especially 12) When there is a disagreement between fans of your business. starts with you creating a team who love important because it: important when it relates to: you and the client, it is important to: You have done your best – even more working for you. So, practice building a) Makes them feel valued and respected a) Explaining quotes and the possibility of a) Go through the facts and establish who in some cases. But the relationship has When you set the example and love great rapport with your team. Show and therefore more likely to continue additional costs to the client. is right and who is wrong. working for you. soured. It’s difficult and you wonder if your team, when you focus on solving them you respect them and, when there b) What type of tea the crew like. b) Defend your team. you will even have the courage to ask their problems, you are teaching is a problem, don’t humiliate them. Deal b) Teaches your team how to treat your client. c) All the details of how the job will be c) See the issue from the client’s for a testimonial. What will they say? them how to do the same with your with it in a way that leaves them feeling undertaken. perspective and even if you need to It might not be flattering. clients. Your clients will love this! valued and respected. c) Both of the other answers. respectfully explain how they are When you stand with your team and wrong, ensure they feel listened to. Wouldn’t it be better if, in spite of the face a problem together and walk in 2. MAJOR ON THE MINORS building challenges that all builders their shoes, they know you care about A wise sage once said, “it’s the little NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

3232 www.thesuccessfulbuilder.com 33 INSURANCE BUILTIN

before damage had occurred, he would when it first becomes wet or even when for delayed damage claims from other WHEN DID THE DAMAGE OCCUR? have no cover as the event triggering it is discovered. The judge said that events. the claim (ie, when the damage damage had clearly been suffered occurred) happened in 2015. when rotting of the timber had occurred. IN A NUTSHELL There is also a reference to “de minimis”, One of the key triggers for a liability which basically means the damage has claim is that the damage must have to have reached a minimum threshold occurred during the policy period. In It’s a good idea to for it to be considered as such. some cases, this can happen months or years after the job was done. This is why keep your cover in The judge indicated that, in the absence it’s a good idea to keep your cover in place for a while after of any expert advice to the contrary, place for a while after you’ve finished you’ve finished the damage to timber is deemed to occur the job, including after you retire. within 6-18 months of completion of job, including after the work. It was further agreed that you retire once a building starts to leak, there will be enough moisture in the wood to promote fungal growth within three to six months. During the next six months, WHEN DOES WET TIMBER decay will advance so that it is well BECOME DAMAGED? under way; such that the strength of the Most of the time, it’s easy to identify wood is compromised. Physical damage, when the damage occurred. It’s when in terms of the policy, has occurred you dropped the rangehood onto the by then, although “each case must be induction cooktop, or when the digger examined on its own facts”. hit the underground pipe. In other situations, it can be very difficult – as GRADUAL DAMAGE/ with timber that gets wet and rots. DETERIORATION EXCLUSION Unfortunately, since this case most In a famous legal case between Arrow insurers have added an exclusion to Damage might be discovered months or years after the build is complete, but it’s when this damage occurred that matters for insurance International and QBE, the judge public/general liability cover (and to decided that damage occurs when there domestic house policies) that excludes has been “an alteration to the physical claims from gradual deterioration, such Builtin looks at what events can trigger a public liability insurance claim, how this is determined, state of the timber which impairs its as rotting timber. and what this means when it comes to cancelling insurance value or usefulness as a component Keep insurance in place, in case damage occurs after the job has finished in the building”. This is not necessarily However, there is always the potential here are a few key triggers that damage was discovered, or when you months of being wet. The homeowner must be met before your public were told about it. The claim should still made a claim on their insurance, which T liability insurance claim can even be made under the policy that was in was declined, so the homeowner Builtin are New Zealand's trade insurance experts. For more information visit www.builtin.co.nz, be considered. First, the event which place when the damage occurred, even notified the builder in January 2019 that email Ben Rickard at [email protected] or call him on 0800 BUILTIN. triggers the claim must be within the if it was years earlier. they would be holding him liable for the policy period. This can be a source of repair costs. misunderstanding, because there are AN EXAMPLE often a few different events associated A renovation of a residential property In this case, the builder needs to claim PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE with a claim, so you need to understand was completed in January 2012. In on the policy he had in place in 2015. Tick the correct answers below and record what you’ve learnt in the record of learning on the back page! which is the important one. 2018 a leak was discovered; it had Even if he has changed insurers in that taken time to penetrate internal time, the insurer of the policy he had DIFFERENT EVENTS: linings and only came to light after in 2015 should be the one to respond 13) Which of these is the most important 14) According to a famous legal decision, 15) Why should a builder continue to insure discolouration started to appear. It to claims for events during that policy event for liability insurance to kick in? unless expert evidence shows otherwise, their work after they retire? 1. 2. 3. 4. water damage to timber is deemed to When you When the When the When was determined that the leak began period, even if the claim is made years a) When the damage is reported to you. have occurred: a) In case the homeowner causes damage did the damage damage is you're told to the home. work occurred discovered about it sometime in 2014, with damage to the later. If he had cancelled his policy in b) When the damage occurred. framing timber starting in 2015 after 2013 after the job was finished, but a) 6-18 months after completion of b) In case damage is found to have c) When the damage is discovered. the build. occurred (possibly months or years) 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 b) At completion of the build. after a build was completed.

The only important event when it comes Job done Leak starts Timber is Damage Builder c) 6-18 months before the damage c) Because it’s easier to not cancel the considered discovered notified is discovered. insurance. to a public liability claim is when the damaged damage actually happened. It doesn’t matter when you did the work, when the NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation.

34 www.builtininsurance.co.nz 35 SPONSORSHIP TRADEMADE DEALS SPONSORSHIP NEWS

A YEAR OF CHARITY * Communities around the country boosted by incredible local store fundraising GET A FREE

rom golf days to silent auctions, and PlaceMakers Waiheke’s golf day PLACEMAKERS dozens of BBQs and even a raised $6,000 for the Auckland Rescue F long-distance scooter rally, a Helicopter Trust! PlaceMakers Evans staggering $211,514 was donated Bay also raised $6,000 to support CHILLY BIN to community groups and individuals vital initiatives for local mental health through the PlaceMakers Foundation charities through a variety of events. in 2019. A particularly special recipient of The inaugural PlaceMakers Foundation store-raised funds was Ian ‘Ollie’ Olsen, When you Working Bee grant saw 3-year-old a former long-standing staff member +GST Harry Finch’s family receive $100,000 at PlaceMakers Whangarei who was $ OR from the sale of two container houses severely injured due to a workplace spend 4000 MORE built and sold to fund life-changing leg accident. His team rallied together to More than 100 riders rode from Bluff to Queenstown for the bi-annual surgery and ongoing physio costs for arrange a trade BBQ breakfast and Southern Scooter Challenge the Otago youngster, who was born open auction to fund the creation on fencing with Spastic Diplegia Cerebral Palsy. of a home workshop where Ian can Thanks to the $25,000 Working Bee continue to use his hands and carpentry The PlaceMakers Foundation products grant, Cromwell builder Derek Craig skills. Their goal of $10,000 was far combines charitable giving, the was able to finish his ambitious project, exceeded and $15,000 was raised skills of PlaceMakers’ own staff and with support from dozens of local for Ian’s workshop. customers, and all available resources tradies and PlaceMakers Cromwell, to help make a lasting difference in then donate the entire $100,000 Bruce McEwen, NZ Distribution Chief communities around the country. ADVERT raised the Finch family. Executive and PlaceMakers Foundation From a helping hand for local groups Chair, is thrilled with the number of to bringing major projects to fruition An impressive range of activities were events, funds raised and positive impact through the Working Bee programme, organised with a couple of stand-out on community projects in 2019. the goal of the PlaceMakers Foundation commendations – the PlaceMakers is to make a change and together build Invercargill team brought in a “I’m very proud and inspired by the a better New Zealand. whopping $120,000 for the Prostate way our stores have supported such Cancer Foundation and Hospice a diverse range of people last year. See more about the great initiatives Southland with its bi-annual Southern It’s a true reflection of the deep here: Scooter Challenge, PlaceMakers connection between stores, staff and foundation.placemakers.co.nz Albany raised $15,000 for Cure Kids, communities nationwide.”

PROVE YOUR KNOWLEDGE Evidence of actual learning rather than just ‘participation’ is a key requirement of the LBP renewal process. VALUED $ CODEWORDS UNDER AT 299 ISSUE 93 CONSTRUCTION FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020 INCL. GST 1 5 1) 6) 11) For ease of record keeping, use this coupon to collate your answers from within this issue FISH NOT 2 6 2) 7) 12) of Under Construction and then sign and date INCLUDED; See our Landscaping Catalogue it as proof of your own learning. THAT’S UP 3 3) 8) 13) TO YOU for more information on our FENCING range 4 4) 9) 14) Signature Date 5) 10) 15) *Offer exclusive to PlaceMakers trade account holders. Purchases must be invoiced on a current trade account between 1ST February & 31ST March 2020 and can be over multiple transactions. Qualifying spend of $4000+GST or more is limited to timber, aluminium, powder coated steel & glass fencing products. Winners of the competition will be notified by 24TH April 2020. The first 150 qualifying customers will receive a PlaceMakers branded 45L chilly bin which will be available for collection from the winner’s local PlaceMakers branch no later than 8TH May 2020. The giveaway is limited to 150 nationwide and to NB: The questions and answers in this section have been produced by the publisher and do not necessarily reflect views or opinions of the contributing organisation. a max of one per qualifying trade account. Prizes are not redeemable for cash or any other product or service. See www.placemakers.co.nz/products/landscaping/fencing for further product information. Further terms & conditions apply, see www.placemakers.co.nz/trademade-fencing/ or instore for details.

36 www.foundation.placemakers.co.nz TRADEMADE DEALS SUN’S OUT GUNS OUT

SPEND $500+GST ON FIRTH GREY MASONRY, FIRTH BRICK OR DRICON MORTAR & GRAB A FREE 12ADVERT PACK OF MUSASHI PROTEIN BARS AND A DRINK BOTTLE!

FOR PURCHASES BETWEEN 1 FEB – 31 MAR 2020.*

*Offer exclusive to PlaceMakers trade account customers. Qualifying customers must spend $500+GST of Firth Grey Masonry, Firth Brick or Dricon Mortar in a single transaction. Purchases must be invoiced on a current trade account between 1ST February 2020 & 31ST March 2020. Prize is an instant reward while stocks last (limited to 1,000 nationwide). Each prize consists of a box of 12 Musashi protein bars and a 1.5 Litre water jug. The prize pictured is for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual prize. Prizes are not redeemable for cash or any other product or service.

NORTHLAND PUKEKOHE 237 0020 TAUPO 376 0220 WELLINGTON PORT NELSON 548 9069 SOUTHERN KAITAIA 408 9020 SILVERDALE 424 9000 TE KUITI 878 8149 EVANS BAY 387 8692 SAXTON RD 547 9111 ALEXANDRA 440 0198 KERIKERI 407 4820 TAKANINI 268 2950 TE RAPA 850 0190 CROMWELL 445 9202 HUTT CITY 568 5042 CHRISTCHURCH MANGAWHAI 431 4236 WAIHEKE ISLAND 372 0060 THAMES 868 0130 DUNEDIN 466 4617 WHAKATANE 306 0320 KAIWHARAWHARA 472 1616 ANTIGUA STREET 344 8915 WHANGAREI 470 3970 WAIRAU PARK 444 5155 GORE 209 0055 WHITIANGA 867 2000 KAPITI 296 1086 CRANFORD STREET 375 4119 WESTGATE 815 6800 INVERCARGILL 211 0366 AUCKLAND LEVIN 366 0960 HORNBY 344 8950 CENTRAL NORTH ISLAND KAIAPOI 327 5860 MOSGIEL 466 4617 ALBANY 414 0900 WAIKATO / BAY OF PLENTY MASTERTON 377 7504 HAWERA 278 6013 RICCARTON 348 2039 OAMARU 433 0460 COOK ST 356 2899 CLARENCE ST 838 0716 HAWKES BAY 843 5816 PORIRUA 237 9189 QUEENSTOWN 450 9000 HELENSVILLE 420 9150 HUNTLY 828 2000 NEW PLYMOUTH 755 9040 CANTERBURY TE ANAU 249 7774 MT WELLINGTON 570 8300 MORRINSVILLE 889 8057 OHAKUNE 385 8414 UPPER SOUTH ISLAND ASHBURTON 308 9099 WANAKA 443 0080 NEW LYNN 825 0088 MT MAUNGANUI 575 4009 PALMERSTON NORTH 353 5777 BLENHEIM 520 6030 TIMARU 687 4035 PAKURANGA 538 0200 ROTORUA 347 7023 WANGANUI 349 1919 MOTUEKA 528 8164 TWIZEL 435 3133

Products featured may not be available in all stores but as part of our rain check policy can be ordered in at the advertised price. Contact your local store for availability. Consumer Guarantees Act excluded. PlaceMakers Terms of Trade apply.