Archicentre

Home renovators and owner builders have been urged to check any building insulation products which may be offered to them, or are being used in new homes, that they comply with the labelling, testing and quality requirements contained in the Building Code of Australia regulations / Australian Standards.

Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects said with the collapse of the Federal Government's Home Insulation Program some insulation products imported by installers were not tested correctly and failed to comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). These products, including sub-standard glass-wool batts and other insulation products, including laminated foil, could now find their way into new building and renovation projects.

Victorian State Manager of Archicentre, David Hallett said anyone undertaking a renovation or building a new home should buy insulation products from a reputable source and check that the insulation products comply with BCA standards. "We have instructed our architects undertaking renovation design concepts and pre-purchase inspections to be extremely vigilant. Archicentre's statistics show that in some suburbs 40% of homes still have no roof insulation and these are prime targets for unscrupulous contractors wanting to dump inferior products."

"Saving a few dollars and not having the correct material is not just an environmental matter it is also related to safety especially where the threat of fire is concerned."

Mr. Hallett said it is also vital to use properly qualified and accredited installers as incorrect installation of unsuitable products can become a legal liability, especially if the property is sold with poorly installed substandard insulation.

"People now apprehensive about ceiling insulation shouldn't be...they should just use a reputable installer and make themselves aware of the quality Australian made products which can be safely used when installed properly."

Mr Hallett said it is important, both environmentally and economically, to restore community confidence in the insulation industry with installers and Australian manufacturers.

Archicentre is also urging all home buyers to check if the home they are considering buying has been part of the Federal Government Home Insulation Scheme. If so home buyers need to request an inspection report by a qualified person which lists the time it was done, the qualifications, and the details of the professional indemnity insurance policy which covers the quality of the inspection.

Mr Hallett said in the case of the home owner, for peace of mind and safety, the same type of inspection by a qualified person should take place with the home owner receiving a similar report.

We would urge people take advantage of the Government's inspection hotline on 13 17 92 to arrange a safety inspection. We also advise all prospective home buyers to have their homes professionally inspected before committing to the purchase.

www.archicentre.com.au

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