Foundations strengthened, heights attained in a pivotal year

Since its inception in 2021, the Building and Construction Authority has embarked on an arduous journey to regulate the building and construction sector in Malta. 2023 was a successful year for the Authority characterised by radical changes and new achievements.

Starting off, a lot of work was done in relation to enforcement in order to safeguard the safety of third parties whilst construction is taking place. On a day-to-day basis, building inspectors carry out inspections in construction sites around the country, making sure that the building and construction work done is regulated. The number of building inspectors increased in 2023, and more inspectors are intended to be engaged with the Authority in 2024.

The Building and Construction Authority makes sure that the inspectors are given adequate training, focused on building sites safety. On top of this, the Building and Construction Authority believes that education is key in what the Authority is trying to achieve. There is no point in having a large number of building inspectors, if the general public and the main players are not properly educated. This is imperative in order to reduce negative consequences.

One of the biggest achievements in 2023 was the issuing of the Contractor’s License. This was delivered after a lengthy process, following an extensive public consultation with all stakeholders on the drafting of a legal notice. The public consultation was open to self-employed individuals, large contractors, professionals within the industry, and the general public. The change in the Subsidiary Legislation instigates more responsibility, professionalism and a higher quality on how things are carried out. By the end of October 2023, more than 3,500 applications were submitted for the Contractor’s License.

Earlier this year, a draft was put up for Public Consultation to change the regulations for the mason’s license. The public consultation will define what skills a person must have as a mason in Malta. This is another step in a series of ambitious reforms, which will help in further regulating the construction sector. The draft emphasises the importance of training to ensure that both those applying for a license for the first time, and those already possessing one, continue to improve their skills and are made more aware of the best practices within the industry.

Another important area which falls under the remit of the Building and Construction Authority is energy efficieny in buildings. Energy efficiency involves using less energy and using energy responsibly. It can impact every aspect of our lives, including what we buy and where we live. When it comes to homes, it is important to know how your home operates and consumes energy, while becoming more mindful of energy sources. Choosing to buy an energy-efficient home is a great start to living more comfortably and saving on energy bills. By making energy efficiency choices, you’re also helping to protect our environment.

The Building and Construction Authority takes the necessary measures to establish minimum energy performance requirements for buildings or building units, with a view to achieving cost-optimal levels. Furthermore, the Building and Construction Authority published an updated draft of documents for public consultation, labelled as Document F, to set out the minimum requirements for new and existing buildings to be renovated to efficiently maximise the energy use. The new Document F will replace the document currently in force. It should serve as a guide for professionals, contractors, and operators in the construction field. Everyone needs to recognise their obligations on energy efficiency, as required by law.

Moreover, a course was organised by the BCA on the Energy Performance Rating of Dwellings in Malta (EPRDM), where more than 150 periti and engineers became assessors. Therefore, they can provide consultation to the public on energy performance in residential buildings.

Finally, the Authority inaugurated new offices in Marsa and in the Gozo Innovation Hub, equipped with energy-saving systems. The work of the Building and Construction Authority is based on three main pillars. The latter include the strengthening of human resources, the modernisation of the building itself and the strengthening of the technological tools. The Building and Construction Authority will also be investing nearly €2 million in a new IT system. The overarching objective is to modernise its operations. This upgraded digitisation system will have its own platform, which enables the issuing of permits and licenses among others.

In 2023, the Authority has consistently exceeded performance expectations, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence, and achieving significant milestones. The Building and Construction Authority is now eagerly anticipating the opportunities that 2024 holds, with a commitment to build on the success of this year.