Only 600 out of 20,000 construction firms join register to tackle cowboy builders

Only 600 construction companies out of an expected 20,000 have registered with the body responsible for tackling 'cowboy builders' in the last ten years. The small number of builders on the voluntary register, introduced by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) in 2014, underscores the need for a compulsory replacement.

The compulsory register, aimed at providing greater consumer protections, was initially planned for last year, but no start date has been set yet. Housing minister James Browne hopes to introduce it this year, but CIF anticipates it won't be operational until early next year.

Once implemented, all providers of building works will be required to register, including construction companies, builders, specialists, and tradespeople. Consumers will be able to verify the legitimacy of companies or contractors online. CIF will also act as the industry regulator.

Concerns have been raised about the delayed timeline, with only 600 companies currently on the voluntary register. Without a compulsory database, consumers remain vulnerable to unscrupulous builders, according to Limerick City TD Conor Sheehan.

The mandatory register may not be accessible until early 2027, despite earlier expectations. CIF stated that applications for the register are expected to open by early 2026, with a phased approach. Consumers will have access to the database after a 12-month registration period.

The Construction Industry Register Ireland, managed by CIF, was appointed as the statutory registration body in January 2023. The compulsory register aims to enhance competence in the sector and crack down on rogue builders.

Sheehan plans to introduce stronger legislation to transfer control of the register to the National Buildings Control Office and impose harsher penalties on non-compliant builders.

According to the source: The Journal.