Kamra Tal-Periti Commends Progress On Contractor Licensing But Calls For Further Improvements
In a significant development for the construction industry, the Kamra tal-Periti has celebrated the commencement of applications for contractor licensing by the Building and Construction Agency (BCA).
After campaigning tirelessly for sixteen years, this long-awaited step marks a crucial milestone in modernising and revitalising the sector.
However, the success of this licensing system will depend on the BCA’s determination to hold contractors accountable. Without a resolute commitment from the BCA to enforce professionalism on construction sites, these regulations risk becoming a futile exercise.
While acknowledging the progress made, the Kamra tal-Periti highlights areas for improvement in the recently published regulations.
Notably, the absence of mandatory insurance covers such as Contractors’ All Risk (CAR), Employers’ Liability, and Liability Period insurance raises serious concerns, as also echoed by the MDA (Malta Developers Association).
Regulation 5 (3) of L.N. 166 of 2023 mandates that licensed contractors should ensure their works are covered by insurance. However, the organisation believes that placing the responsibility on the BCA’s enforcement personnel and clients to verify insurance coverage is burdensome and impractical.
Instead, the Kamra tal-Periti suggests making adequate insurance coverage a prerequisite for obtaining a license.
This approach aligns with the Periti Act, which requires all periti (architects and engineers) to be insured before receiving a certificate to practice from the architects’ organisation. Thus, presenting a license card should serve as sufficient proof of coverage for clients.
Urgent discussions are called for by the organisation with the Government and the MDA to address this concern. The Kamra tal-Periti also noted the Malta Insurers Association’s reluctance to provide such cover and urges exploring alternative options with international underwriters.
Furthermore, the NGO advocates for a well-defined timetable to eventually expand the licensing regime to include building services and finishing works. This step aims to elevate industry standards across the board and ensure a comprehensive licensing framework.
As the industry moves towards a more regulated and professional environment, the Kamra tal-Periti remains committed to collaborative efforts and positive changes that will shape the future of Malta’s construction sector.
The construction industry has been under intense and justified heat lately following the national reaction to the developments following Jean Paul Sofia’s death.
Therefore, increased regulation on the leading industry – often accused of corruption – is a positive step for the island, indicating that the public should continue to voice its concerns and fight for safety.
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