Builders to take a fresh look at Building Issues

10 April 2006

Master Builders to take a fresh look at Building Issues at Annual Conference "Fresh Powder" is the theme for the 2006 annual Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF) Conference in Queenstown over Anzac weekend, reflecting RMBF's desire to take a fresh look at issues facing the building and construction industry.

From April 22 - 25 registered master builders from around New Zealand will gather in Queenstown to hear and discuss ways to handle business in times of weather tightness, dropping consents and a changing regulatory environment. About 300 people are expected to participate in the conference. Hon Clayton Cosgrove, the Minister of Building Issues, will open the conference giving a timely insight into the role of government in the building industry as the builder licensing issue comes into a critical phase.

Other key speakers include ASB Bank Chief Economist, Anthony Byett who will talk to members about how they can make the most of a slowing economy, and Beacon Pathways CEO, Nick Collins, who will give an overview on sustainable building. Other topics that will be covered include a review of the building code, how to nurture the next generation of builders and Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ) will be launching the 'Sustainable Foundations' guide.

Notes to editor - The 2006 conference will be the 54th annual RMBF Inc NZ conference and the 106th annual conference of NZ Federated Builders and Contractors' Industrial Association of Employers

About Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF) - The Registered Master Builders Federation (RMBF) represents New Zealand's premier building companies who pride themselves on delivering the highest quality houses and buildings - RMBF has 1668 registered master builder member companies nationwide who, in turn, employ more than 15,000 employees and subcontractors

- Of the $7 billion spent on construction in New Zealand, 65% is spent by RMBF members - comprising major contactors at $2 billion, commercial builders $0.5 billion volume/group residential builders $2.5 billion; and specialist new home and renovation builders $2 billion

- RMBF has been in existence for more than 100 years providing industry leadership, training and customer services for its members - There are 22 Registered Master Builders Associations around New Zealand - Registered master builders are assessed on their building experience, trade or professional qualifications and practical experience.

Re-certification of members occurs regularly, with checks on financial viability and workmanship - When engaging a registered master builder for a new home or for alterations and additions work, whether built under a full contract or a labour only contract, a Master Build 7-Year Guarantee covering loss of deposit, non-completion of the work, defective workmanship and defective materials, will be offered by the registered master builder (conditions apply) - In the past 14 years, Master Build Services has provided more than 60,000 Master Build Guarantees (52,143 on new homes and 8,621 on alterations to homes)

ENDS

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