The QBCC recently released the following announcement relating to the payment of the sighting fee. This change comes into effect from 31st May, 2019.
As you are aware, it is unlawful for a certifier to give development approval for residential construction work unless they have written information from the QBCC that:
• the appropriate insurance premium has been paid, for example a QBCC Notice of Cover for the work the subject of the approval; or
• no premium is payable, for example an owner builder permit for the work the subject of the approval.
This requirement is specified in section 68E of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991. A certifier who does not comply commits an offence.
Historically, the QBCC has paid certifiers a sighting fee of $2.09, inclusive of GST, each time they sight proof of payment of premium. The QBCC has decided that it is not appropriate to pay persons to comply with the law, and will no longer pay a sighting fee.
This decision takes effect on 31 May 2019. The QBCC will pay certifiers the sighting fee for all approvals for which proof was sighted on or before 31 May 2019. Any claim for sighting fees must be received by the QBCC no later than 14 June 2019. Any claim submitted after this date will not be paid.
For more information on this topic, please contact the Queensland Building and Construction Commission on 139 333.