ConsumerBuild launch

The Chief Executives of the Department of Building and Housing and Consumers’ Institute have celebrated the partnership that resulted in the development of the ConsumerBuild website.

The site was launched in Wellington today by the Minister for Building Issues, Hon Margaret Wilson.

"The website pulls together a range of information for people involved in building, renovating or maintaining residential property," Department Chief Executive Katrina Bach said.

"Consumers can have confidence that the advice is from an independent source.  The website is the first of its kind for New Zealand consumers involved in building."

Ms Bach said the website was a testament to a partnership approach adopted developed by the former Building Industry Authority and the Consumers’ Institute, and will be continued by the new Department of Building and Housing.

"The BIA worked very closely with Consumers’ Institute and also worked with Standards New Zealand, the Building Research Association of New Zealand, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs – all members of the Editorial Board - and others to ensure ConsumerBuild content is relevant to consumers and is up-to-date."

"The Department will continue this work."

Site content includes navigating the building consent process; dealing with builders and architects; options for managing a building project; information on features and materials; maintenance tips and weathertightness to name a few.

ConsumerBuild helps consumers by providing reliable information about the building process, as well as their rights, responsibilities and where to go if they have a problem, Ms Bach said.

"The site has a range of content and is interspersed with case studies and helpful tips."

"And, being an online resource, it links to useful and relevant information held elsewhere on the Web."

Chief Executive of Consumers’ Institute, David Russell said the three main objectives of the site are:

• To increase consumer knowledge and contribute to better buildings for New Zealanders
• To provide people with the confidence to become involved in their building projects from the initial planning to the final sign off
• To encourage consumers to demand building solutions that are appropriate for them, meeting their individual needs and circumstances.

"ConsumerBuild will assist people make better-informed decisions about building, maintaining or renovating a home."

"Building a home is one of the biggest investment decisions a New Zealander can make during their lifetime."

"As such, it is vital they get the support, information and knowledge they require for a successful outcome."

"ConsumerBuild will provide consumers with the essential information they need at all stages of their building or renovation projects," David Russell said.