Bridging the Gap: Bringing Together Building Certification Software and Local Government

There are many links in the business regulation chain – perhaps a few too many. As any business owner knows, when processes get too complicated, problems can begin to arise – problems such as inefficiencies, bottle necks, and potential stumbling blocks.

Let's consider building regulations on a macro level. These regulations are designed to protect public safety, to preserve the identity and aesthetic of the local environment through positive town planning, and to help our communities function effectively. In most cases, they are drafted and implemented by local government.

But for these broad advantages to be enjoyed on a community-wide level, individual builders, planners, and project managers need to stay up to date and compliant with regulation. This is where building certification software and systems are so crucial.

These systems are designed to remove links from the chain and make the whole process more efficient and effective in a way that will benefit everyone. After all, what happens if building projects fail to achieve compliance? At worst, there is an accident, damaging property and putting human life at risk. At best, the project stalls, jobs are lost, and the community loses out on a finished article that could help it develop and grow in the future.

A Smoother Route to Compliance

So, how does this software help businesses, projects, and communities? The primary advantage is a more direct link between project teams and local government, as well as a better understanding of project data and insight. This provides benefits in a number of different areas.

• Building Applications and Approvals

Traditionally, building approvals and applications have been major sources of friction in the process. Building certification software helps to remove some of this friction by making it much easier to file applications with building certifiers and receive quotes directly from the certifier's website. Essentially, this brings building certifiers and other entities closer to the local government authorities they are reporting to, bridging the gap between them.

Software also makes application approvals more likely. As applicants have all the data they need with regard to approval requirements and project status, they know exactly what needs to be sent through to the approval body. Even the most complex jobs can be assessed and analysed so applicants know exactly what they need. This removes both the anxiety of the approval process and the inefficiency of a failed application.

• Building Permits

Building certification software provides a reference point that building certifiers and town planners can use as they manage their building permits. The software offers insight into zoning restrictions and permit validity, creating a key vantage point from which to assess permits.

If a certain stage of the project needs an updated permit or a new permit altogether, this can be swiftly applied for, minimising the risk of non-compliance.

• Risk Management

There are risks inherent in all building projects, but this doesn't mean they cannot be mitigated. With the right software, project managers can draw upon an integrated store of information from right across the project, achieving unprecedented insight into their processes and operations.

This is a crucial part of risk management as this data insight gives teams the opportunity to assess and analyse risks before working to counteract them. Teams can also use this data as proof of risk management and mitigation success, making it easier to acquire PI insurance or other useful protections for the project.

• Combustible Cladding Issues and Other Evolving Legislation

Combustible cladding issues are one example of building regulation and legislation that have evolved somewhat in recent years. Just because a certain material or practice was once legally supported does not mean that this is still the case, and it is crucial for builders and project managers to stay on top of this.

Software helps business owners, planners, and builders to stay on top of the NCC (National Construction Code), as well as all applicable rulings and laws handed down by local government, even as these requirements change and develop over time.

Gain Compliance and Full Peace of Mind with Visual Approvals, Building Certification Software

Visual Approvals is building certification software designed to give building certifiers the tools they need to approve plans, issue certificates and to remain compliant. This, in turn, gives town planners and project managers peace of mind -- they know their certifiers are working with the best solutions on the market. Reach out to our team today to learn more about what the solution can do for you.