That’s why waterproofing matters more than many people realise.

According to the QBCC’s latest Industry Snapshot, waterproofing continues to be a re-occuring defect in Queensland. For licensees, that’s a statistic you want to know, but also one you can protect against.

Why waterproofing keeps going wrong

Waterproofing failures can often happen because:

• The wrong product is used for the environment
• work is rushed, products are applied incorrectly or outside manufacturer specifications
• the work is not inspected or tested before leaving the job
• and quality documentation and photos are not kept to demonstrate that the work done properly in the first place.

These mistakes can seem minor at the time, but the consequences significant. Failed waterproofing can lead to structural damage, health risks such as mould, unhappy customers and lengthy disputes and very expensive rectifications, all of which damage confidence in our industry. Each residential bathroom claim finalised under the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme during the 2024–25 financial year averaged almost $25,000 in rectification costs which then have to be recovered from the licensee.

What the right thing looks like

Doing the right thing starts with understanding your obligations and building waterproofing into your process.

As a licensee, that means:

• making sure waterproofing work complies with the NCC and Australian Standards
• following manufacturer instructions exactly
• ensuring the area is correctly prepared before application
• allowing adequate curing times
• inspecting the work before it’s covered up
• keeping clear records, photos and test certificates that demonstrate that you completed the work to the required standards and left it in good condition

These protect the home owner and your reputation.

Learning before it becomes a problem

One thing many licensees may not realise is that the QBCC’s first response is not enforcement.

Here at the QBCC, we are focused on education and prevention, helping licensees understand what’s expected and how to comply, while remaining firm on repeat non-compliance to protect the reputation of those doing the right thing.

From a licensee perspective, that's important.

Nobody wants to be pulled into a complaints process — but it’s reassuring to know that where issues are identified early, there is a strong emphasis on guidance, improvement and learning, rather than immediate penalties or repercussions if you ask for help and are prepared to do the right thing.

What we recommend to licensees

If you’re working in wet areas, waterproofing deserves your full attention.

Our advice to licensees is simple:

• keep your knowledge up to date
• check the details every time
• use QBCC guidance and resources
• ask questions before work starts, not after problems appear.

Getting waterproofing right goes beyond compliance - it speaks to your professionalism, pride in your work, protecting your business and avoiding expensive repairs.

Part of a wider industry focus

Waterproofing is the first in a QBCC series highlighting the Top 10 most-reported building defects from the Industry Snapshot with practical guidance, clear expectations and information to help builders and trades do the right thing from the start.

Because when we get it right, everyone benefits — home owners, industry participants and the reputation of the Queensland building and construction industry. 

Difference between an ABN and a QBCC licence number

An ABN or trading name simply shows that a business is registered for tax and trading purposes — it does not confirm the person is licensed to perform building work. An ABN is issued and managed by the Australian Taxation Office and is separate to a QBCC licence which is issued and managed by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission.

When entering into a contract for work valued at more than $3,300, you should always check if the contractor has the relevant QBCC licence by verifying their licence number.  

Recent enforcement activity, prosecutions and public warnings in Queensland show unlicensed operators continue to cause financial harm to home owners by pretending to hold a licence or offering to perform work that ordinarily requires a licence.

By using a QBCC licensee, you’re ensuring: your building or renovation work complies with legal standards, is covered by the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme for insurance against defects or non-completion, and ensures the contractor has the verified skills, experience, and financial capacity to complete a job. It offers peace of mind, reducing the risk of legal disputes or costly repairs.

You can verify they are licensed in three ways:  

• Sight their physical licence card.
• Sight their digital licence on their mobile phone via the Queensland Government’s digital licence app.
• Check their licence number on the QBCC’s free licensee register.

Alternatively, if something doesn’t feel right, you can call the business directly to confirm the person you spoke with is a representative of their company or call us for support.  

Hiring an appropriately licensed contractor provides peace of mind, as they have the right skills and qualifications to perform the work. Going with a licensed contractor may also provide protection – in the form of our nation-leading Home Warranty Scheme – in the event anything goes wrong.  

At-a-glance comparison and what to check 

Red flags and practical checks

1. Licence number is missing or inconsistent — ask for it and verify it.
2. Refusal to provide a licence card or contact details should be treated as a warning sign.
3. Different business name on paperwork vs who you spoke to — call the business to confirm identity.

The QBCC responds to complaints about unlicensed contractors and contractors who have fraudulently represented themselves as licensed.  If you suspect that you are dealing with a dodgy contractor, report them to us.

Risks and final tips

There are significant risks associated with hiring unlicensed contractors, including: paying excessive deposit amounts; incomplete, defective and/or non-compliant work leading to costly completion or rectification; and potentially not being covered by the home warranty scheme.

That’s why it’s so important to verify the person you’re dealing with is who they say they are, keep written records, and understand your role and responsibilities by visiting the QBCC’s Home Owner Hub, which can help guide you through your building or renovation journey by providing valuable tips and information. 

Whether you are planning a new home, extending your existing one, or finally tackling that long-awaited kitchen upgrade, the price tag today may look very different from what you expected even a few years ago.

At the QBCC, we know that the vast majority of licensed contractors aren't increasing their prices for the sake of it – they're navigating the same economic pressures that are affecting industries right across the world.

We want to help home owners understand why costs are rising, how they can protect themselves from unexpected construction costs, and how to work constructively with licensed contractors to achieve the best possible outcomes.

National data reflects these pressures. The latest ABS Producer Price Index  reports that demand rose over the past year, with construction industry prices increasing due to labour shortages, wage growth and higher input costs. This demonstrates that rising building prices are part of broader economic conditions rather than contractor‑driven increases.

Understanding the reasons behind rising building costs

Material costs have increased globally

Timber, steel, concrete and other essential building materials have all risen sharply in price over the past few years. Global supply chain disruptions, international demand spikes, and freight challenges have all contributed. Even as supply chains stabilise, many materials remain significantly more expensive than pre-2020 levels.

Contractors do not control these prices. They purchase materials at market rates, and those costs flow directly into project pricing.

Labour shortages are ongoing

Australia continues to face a shortage of skilled tradespeople. Demand for construction has surged following natural disasters, government stimulus programs and population growth, but the workforce has not expanded at the same pace.

When labour is scarce, wages rise. Contractors must pay competitive rates to secure qualified trades, and this is reflected in project costs. This is not about overcharging. It is about meeting the realities of the labour market.

Key recommendations in the Queensland Productivity Commission's Final Report into the building and construction industry aim to enhance labour mobility to address skills shortages in the construction sector through mutual recognition across states.

Insurance, fuel and operational costs have risen

Like every business, contractors face increased costs for insurance, fuel, equipment, and administration. These operational expenses form part of the overall cost of delivering a project safely and professionally.

How home owners can protect themselves from unexpected or increased costs

While rising prices may be unavoidable, home owners can take practical steps to stay in control of their budget and reduce the risk of surprise costs.

1. Start with a detailed contract

• A clear, comprehensive contract is your best protection. It should outline the scope of work, materials and specifications, timeframes, payment schedules, variation processes and warranties.
• Many cost blowouts occur because the contract was vague or incomplete. A detailed contract ensures everyone understands what is included and what is not.
• The QBCC website’s contracts page provides guidance, templates and checklists to help home owners understand what the most appropriate contract is for their project and what information it should contain.
• We recommend having your contract checked by a legal professional before signing.  

2. Communicate early and often

Good communication is one of the most effective ways to avoid disputes and misunderstandings. Discuss expectations upfront, ask questions, and maintain regular check-ins throughout the project.

Contractors appreciate proactive communication because it helps them plan, manage risks, and deliver a smoother experience.

3. Understand variations before they happen

Variations are one of the most common sources of cost increases. They occur when the home owner changes the scope of work or when unforeseen issues arise, such as structural problems discovered during demolition.

A strong contract will outline how variations are priced and approved. Never agree to a variation verbally. Always request it in writing – the scope and cost.

It is important to recognise that licensed contractors are (in most cases) not inflating prices without cause. They are operating in a challenging environment where materials, labour and operational costs have risen significantly. Many contractors have absorbed cost increases for as long as possible before adjusting their pricing.

Rising construction costs are a reality, but they do not have to derail your plans. With the right knowledge, home owners can navigate this environment confidently and constructively.

For practical tools, guides and checklists, home owners can visit the QBCC’s Home Owner Hub; for contract essentials, the contracts page provides clear guidance on what to look for before signing.

The QBCC also recommends hiring licensed contractors only, as licensed contractors are accountable to professional standards and regulatory requirements. They must meet financial, technical, and operational criteria to maintain their licence.

Defective building work is more than a technical issue, it’s a systemic challenge that affects builders, home owners, regulators, and the broader industry.  

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission’s (QBCC) 2025 Industry Snapshot reveals the top 10 most common building defects reported across the state. These defects are not only frequent, but they are costly and disruptive. They are also – promisingly – preventable.

The top 10 defects reported in 2024-2025 include: 

These defects range from minor aesthetic flaws to serious structural risks that can be extremely costly to rectify. In most cases, the expense of repairing these issues far exceeds the cost of getting the work right the first time.

For example, under the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme (QHWS) the average claim to fix defective waterproofing during this same period amassed an average of $25,000.

Waterproofing issues and drainage failures can also cause long-term damage to the home, and negative health impacts if not identified and addressed early.  

A shared opportunity to improve 

Improving building quality and reducing defects is a shared responsibility across the entire industry – regulators, licensees, and home owners.

Industry bodies such as Master Builders Queensland, Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), the Australian Building Codes Board and consumer advocates are calling for greater awareness of standards, proactive education, and regulatory reform – such as through the Building Regulation Renovation.  

These efforts aim to ensure defects and issues highlighted in the Industry Snapshot are effectively minimised.  

For Queensland’s building and construction industry, the need for a proactive and coordinated approach to education and addressing these challenges has never been greater.  

Our role

We are committed to being an active and constructive part of the industry, because we firmly believe prevention is better than cure.

As outlined in our Compliance and Enforcement Strategy, we take an intelligence-led approach – using insights and data to guide activity that lifts industry awareness and promotes compliance.  

We work on the ground and behind the scenes to identify issues early and share timely information on emerging trends, helping ensure standards and codes are understood and applied by those on the tools and those supervising the work. 

Licensees’ role 

• Engage in and encourage continued professional development through workplace mentoring and succession planning, and industry bodies such as CSQ that offers subsidised training in areas such as waterproofing and structural compliance.
• Seek out updates relating to regulatory requirements and reforms including changes to the National Construction Code and the Building Regulation Renovation.  
• Read QBCC’s newsletters, such as Construction Connect, which is emailed to all licensees and follow our Facebook page for industry updates and information about webinars and events.  
• Call out those breaking the law. While we appreciate that ‘dobbing’ can feel un-Australian, if you see something that doesn’t sit right, let us know. You can report it anonymously if you like.  Your information could help protect home owners and strengthen the industry for everyone. Learn more about reporting concerns on our website.      

Home owners’ role 

• Take the time to check the work that is being undertaken carefully. If you notice any problems, report them to your contractor promptly and follow up in writing.  
• When a defect is identified, have a conversation with your contractor to agree on expectations for how and when it will be resolved. Clear agreements help avoid misunderstandings.
• If you’re unsure about a defect or how to handle it, consider getting an expert opinion from a building inspector or certifier. This can save time and prevent misunderstandings.
• Visit the QBCC Home Owner Hub for guidance at every stage of your building and renovation project – from planning to completion.  

A way forward 

Prevention of defective work starts with awareness, collaboration, and accountability. Tradespeople, home owners, regulators, and industry bodies all have a role to play in lifting standards and reducing risk.  

• When every stakeholder understands their role and actively plays their part – through education, clear communication, and compliance – we can move from costly reactive fixes to proactive quality that everyone is proud of.
• Working together we can strengthen the building and construction industry.   

Queensland’s building and construction industry is facing a demographic shift that demands urgent attention.  

The latest QBCC Industry Snapshot reveals that the average age across all licence classes (excluding fire protection) is now almost 49 years. In some categories, such as Builder – Open (54 years) and Joinery (53 years), the figures are even higher.

Meanwhile, the number of individuals under 30 comprise just 6 per cent of our 122,000+ licensees.

This is more than just a statistic- it highlights a growing imbalance between experienced professionals nearing retirement and the limited number of younger workers entering the trade-specific workforce.  

Without strategic intervention, Queensland risks a skills vacuum that could stall progress on critical infrastructure projects and compromise the quality and safety of the built environment, especially in the middle of a housing shortage and as preparations for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games start to ramp up. 

Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Horizon 2032 Report

The CSQ Horizon 2032 Report paints a vivid picture of the decade ahead. Queensland’s construction pipeline is forecast to grow from $53 billion in 2024–25 to $77 billion by 2026–27, driven by population growth, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the transition to net-zero energy.

However, this boom comes with a workforce challenge. The report projects a peak demand of 156,000 construction workers in 2026–27, with an average shortfall of 18,200 workers annually over the next eight years.  

Key trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical and concreting are expected to lead this demand. 

Succession planning 

What this report also reveals is an area of contention – one that raises the question about succession planning no longer being a luxury, but a necessity to support the building and construction industry across Queensland.  

As seasoned tradespeople retire, the risk of losing decades of expertise grows, but by actively looking to the future, succession planning ensures: 

• continuity of business operations
• preservation of trade knowledge
• maintenance of safety and compliance standards
• timely delivery of infrastructure projects. 

Without a steady pipeline of younger workers, Queensland’s ability to meet its infrastructure commitments could all be compromised if solutions aren’t found.  

What the Industry Snapshot tells us 

The QBCC Industry Snapshot provides a data-informed overview of licensing trends, age demographics and workforce maturity. It’s a valuable tool for identifying succession risks and planning workforce development strategies.  

The snapshot also highlights: 

• regional disparities in workforce age
• licence classes with critical ageing trends
• opportunities for targeted workforce renewal. 

What can be done 

To address the ageing workforce and skills shortage, a multi-pronged strategy is needed: 

1. Reform occupational licensing and improve labour mobility 

The Queensland Productivity Commission (QPC) supports reforms such as Automatic Mutual Recognition, streamlined licensing processes and recognition of prior learning.  

These changes aim to reduce barriers to workforce entry and improve workforce flexibility. 

2. Align vocational education with industry needs 

Recent investments including a $115 million funding package under the National Skills Agreement aim to improve completion rates, expand access to foundation skills, and support training in emerging industries and trades.  

However, studies show a misalignment between vocational education and training (VET) enrolments and actual labour market needs, with over-enrolment in low-demand areas like fitness-related careers and under-enrolment in critical trades needed in the building and construction sector.  

3. Promote trades as professional, purpose-driven careers 

Trades are professional career pathways that people should be proud to embark on and campaigns looking at recruitment, study and retention should highlight this as well as the professionalism and entrepreneurial opportunities that exist in this space.  

This shift in messaging can help attract younger talent and diversify the workforce. 

4. Support mature workers and lifelong learning

Older workers remain a valuable asset. Strategies such as blended roles, flexible shifts, and targeted health and safety support can extend their participation and reduce injury risks. This cohort can also share their knowledge and experience and teach the tricks of the trade to the next generation coming through.

5. Strengthen industry-government collaboration

One of the most effective ways to future-proof Queensland’s building and construction workforce is through stronger collaboration between industry and government.  

This is where programs like Industry Skills and Jobs Advisors (ISJA) and Regional Jobs Committees play a pivotal role.

What does this collaboration look like?

These programs act as a bridge between employers, training providers and government decision-makers, ensuring that workforce planning is grounded in real-world industry needs. They gather evidence-based insights into: 

• skills gaps and emerging jobs
• regional workforce challenges
• training quality and relevance
• employment trends and future demand. 

By doing so, they help shape VET programs that are aligned with actual labour market needs, not just theoretical projections. 

Why is this needed? 

Without coordinated planning, training investments risk being misdirected and lead to an oversupply of graduates in fields and industries that aren’t facing a skills shortage like the building and construction sector.

Industry-government collaboration helps: 

• target training investments where they’re most needed (for example, carpentry, plumbing, electrical)
• reduce duplication and inefficiency in workforce programs
• support regional communities with tailored skilling solutions
• ensure reforms are timely and responsive, especially in licensing and labour mobility. 

Examples of impact 

The ISJA program, expanded in 2025 with a $17 million investment, now supports 14 key industry sectors including construction. Advisors provide strategic advice to government on training priorities, licensing reform, and workforce development.  

Regional Jobs Committees operate in 12 locations across Queensland, developing localised strategies to address workforce shortages and connect stakeholders with funding, training, and employment pathways.  

Together, these initiatives help ensure Queensland’s workforce strategy is proactive, helping the construction industry build the talent pipeline it needs for the decade ahead. 

Looking ahead 

The ageing of Queensland’s building workforce is a challenge, but it also presents an opportunity that can future-proof the industry and turn Queensland into the building capital of Australia. By leveraging data from the Industry Snapshot, embracing reform, and investing in strategic workforce development, Queensland can build a resilient, future-ready construction sector.

We encourage all stakeholders, builders, educators, policymakers, and regulators to treat succession planning as a strategic priority. The time to act is now.

Explore the full QBCC Industry Snapshot for more insights. 

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) CEO and Commissioner, Angelo Lambrinos, said the digital licence is a major step forward in delivering on the commitment to make it easier to do business with the QBCC.

“The QBCC digital licence is part of a broader program to modernise our services while ensuring the public and industry can continue to trust the strength and transparency of the QBCC licensing system,” Mr Lambrinos said.

“It is something the Queensland Government promised and something the industry expects of a modern and contemporary regulator. This significant evolution in our digital transformation is an important signal that we are listening and responding.

“For industry, this means more convenience; and for home owners, it provides greater assurance that contractors are properly licensed,” Mr Lambrinos said.

Licensees can now carry their licence on their phone, access real-time updates, and manage multiple licences in one place.

The new digital licence is an optional extra for licensees and provides a secure, convenient, real-time alternative to a physical licence card.

“For licensees, this means less waiting and fewer hoops to jump through. It's designed to streamline how they manage their licence, freeing them up to focus on what they do best—running their business, leading their team, and getting the job done.

“We’re also increasing home owner awareness of the importance of using a licensed contractor and highlighting how it’s now easier than ever to verify a licence.”

The QBCC started rolling out a pilot program for digital licences in September 2025, initially offering the option to Site Supervisor licensees and Pool Safety Inspectors. The digital option is now available to more than 105,000 QBCC licensees.

The QBCC digital licence has been developed in partnership with the Queensland Government and Transport and Main Roads as part of the Queensland Government Digital Licence App.

The Queensland Government has also issued a media statement today about QBCC digital licensing:

• Queensland Digital Licence app expands to construction industry - Ministerial Media Statements