2,300 applications for new contractor’s licence received so far

Around 2,300 applications have thus far been received by the Building and Construction Authority by people working as contractors in the construction industry.

The BCA said in a statement that as part of its reforms to the industry all those contractors who work in construction, demolition and excavation within the construction sector are obliged to apply for a licence by 31 October this year.

The BCA said that around 2,300 applications have been received by the authority thus far.

The authority added that this licence applies to anyone who works or wishes to work as a contractor in the construction industry and that an applicant must submit an application for any category – be it construction, demolition or excavation – that they wish to work in.

The applications do not give an automatic right for a licence but will be subject to scrutiny by a specialised board, the BCA said.

“With the introduction of this licence we will be assuring that contractors are more serious and responsible while workers will be exposed to more training in the sector,” the BCA said.

The authority also said that it is strengthening its enforcement capabilities on construction sites.

The BCA also disputed what was said in the Jean Paul Sofia public inquiry, wherein it was said that new and updated building codes were complete and had been left unimplemented on a shelf.

The authority claimed that the new building codes are still being prepared and consultation on them is still ongoing with more to come with the Chamber of Architects and other stakeholders. It also reminded that a number of extensive reforms have been introduced in the sector in recent months.

Anyone wanting more information about the contractor licensing process may phone on 2095 5000, 2095 5555 or 80049000 or send an email on: info@bca.org.mt