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Nicheliving - Good result for consumers but better protection required for industry (WA)

Media release

Nicheliving - Good result for consumers but better protection required for industry (WA)

Media release
Today’s announcement that the State Government has come to a negotiated agreement with Nicheliving highlights the need for a better process to look after consumers and protect the integrity of those builders working hard to do the right thing.

“HIA is supportive of the announcement providing certainty to a group of more than 200 consumers that have been caught up in the Nicheliving saga through no fault of their own,” said HIA Executive Director WA, Michael McGowan. 

“The announcement provides hope to many that they can finally move on and find a new builder to complete their new home. 

“HIA were supportive of the decision by Building and Energy to remove Niche’s building licence and encourage the Government to work with industry on ways to prevent situations like these happening again. 

“As an industry we are supportive of a process that holds those not able to fulfill their duties as a builder and facilitates the removal of their licence and the privilege to build people’s homes,” said Mr McGowan. 

“This particular situation has dragged on for far too long and highlights the need for a better way to deal with these issues in the future so a clearer and more streamlined solution can be implemented.” 

Regarding the State Government’s agreement not to pursue Nicheliving directors for the costs of completing unfinished homes, Mr McGowan expressed disappointment. 

“HIA are extremely disappointed that the State Government has instructed QBE not to pursue Nicheliving for the home indemnity insurance costs that will be provided to consumers for the completion of their homes. 

“Many builders have been working tirelessly through challenging conditions to do the right thing for their customers. Many have sold houses and other assets to keep their businesses afloat as they navigated the challenges of material and labour increases and pulled out all stops to get their customers into their new homes,” said Mr McGowan. 

QBE’s system of annual reviews for builders is rigorous and often very onerous. Builders spend a significant amount time each year completing the reviews and providing guarantees to QBE that will allow them to keep building, grow their businesses and complete our much-needed homes. 

Today’s announcement throws into question the integrity of that same system.

For more information please contact:

Michael McGowan

Executive Director - Western Australia
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