The licensing of contractors: another step forward in the right direction

The Building and Construction Authority was established in 2021. This authority is responsible for overseeing the construction process following the planning phase. Several regulations have already been introduced, and the authority has strengthened its setup to enforce rules more effectively.

The process through which the authority certifies method statements is crucial, and contractors are legally obliged to follow the methods stated therein.

In line with the government's commitment to improving quality in the construction sector, the Ministry for Public Works and Planning, in collaboration with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA), initiated a public consultation on the Legal Notice providing a framework for the Licensing of Contractors. The consultation ended on April 21, 2023, following six weeks of public consultation. During this period, the Building and Construction Authority met with all stakeholders and organized four consultation meetings. Since the end of this consultation period, the Authority evaluated the suggestions made and is in the process to ultimately publish a set of regulations that will help increase the seriousness and quality of the construction sector.

In fact, the Authority is currently making all the necessary preparations to start receiving applications from interested parties to become licenced contractors. In the meantime, according to obligations arising from directives of the European Union, The European Commission is in the process of evaluating the latest draft.

The licensing of contractors aims to establish certification requirements for professionals in this field to elevate standards across the industry. Moreover, the workforce requires more training and awareness of the existing rules and regulations in order to comply with them. Furthermore, with the implementation of this license, a distinction will be made between contractors who are committed to work seriously and professionally and those who are not. This reform will ensure better regulation of the construction sector, improved quality, and stricter enforcement.

Previously, the BCA had the power to issue a stop notice, but now it can suspend or revoke a license, thereby preventing contractors from working on any other site. This change, along with other initiatives that have already been implemented, such as the requirement for insurance policies covering the interests of third parties, bank guarantees, and other necessary prerequisites before and during the commencement of work on a project, will continue to enhance the sector.

For more information, please visit www.bca.org.mt.http://please visit www.bca.org.mt.