New code of ethics for LBPs is now in force

The new code of ethics for Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) is enforceable by the Building Practitioners Board from today (25 October 2022).

The code of ethics will ensure high standards are maintained in the industry, while giving the public more confidence that LBPs are reputable and operate ethically.

The Government announced a new code of ethics for LBPs in October 2021, with a twelve-month transition period before it became enforceable.

The code of ethics will ensure high standards are maintained in the industry, while giving the public more confidence that LBPs are undertaking building work in a safe, legal, and professional way, and that they will take responsibility for their work.

Most LBPs already work to the highest professional and ethical standards, so formalising this into a code of ethics aligns the LBP scheme with international best practice. It also provides clear grounds for the Building Practitioners Board to take disciplinary action against LBPs who behave unprofessionally.

The code of ethics is made up of 19 standards, which sit under the following 4 key principles:

  • Work safely
  • Act within the law
  • Take responsibility for your actions
  • Behave professionally.

If an LBP does not comply with their obligations under the code of ethics, a complaint can be made against them which may result in disciplinary action by the Building Practitioners Board. Complaints about someone breaching the code of ethics can only be made if the breach takes place on or after 25 October 2022.

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment has information and education resources available to help LBPs, and consumers who have commissioned an LBP, understand the requirements of the code of ethics and LBPs’ obligations under it. This includes a detailed guidance document which provides information about the principles and standards and an interactive online learning module. The module takes 20-30 minutes to complete and can count towards LBPs’ skills maintenance activities (note LBPs must log in to the module for it to count towards skills maintenance).

Code of ethics

Code of ethics resources

Breaching the code of ethics