MP&DA Calls on Government, Industry to Do Better Following Building Disputes Report
Figure released by Building and Energy found that painting attracted the most consumer complaints in building disputes in February and March.
MP&DA President, Mick Houghton, said this was a worrying trend that was largely due to the government ignoring industry recommendations combined with the increasing inexperience of business owners in areas such as estimating.
“We are at present experiencing government resistance to industry recommendations for a new estimating unit, as part of the painters registration course, that will better equip painters with the required skills to improve both quality and business outcomes.
On top of this, the inadequate policing of unregistered painters creates an environment where cowboy operators thrive and consumers bear the cost,” he said.
MP&DA Executive Officer, Mark Gale, said it is crucial that consumers appoint a trusted painter.
“Not all painters and decorators are equally equipped to deliver a quality outcome. An MP&DA member has committed to the highest standards of workmanship and business ethics.
We implore any painters who hold these values and are not MP&DA members to join and help improve the standing of the industry.
Strict provisions are in place to ensure that only the best businesses are maintained as members. Indeed, we expelled a member last month for failing to meet these standards,” he said.
Consumers are encouraged to contact MP&DA to seek an independent painting inspection on any suspected substandard workmanship.
Inspections are carried out by experienced third-party inspector, Richard Hall, a former Painters Registration Board Inspector. The inspection report can be used in any dispute resolution process, whether instigated by the consumer or the painter.
Contact Mark Gale on 0448 950 587 or at markg@masterpainters.asn.au for more information.