More than 100 building sites across the North Coast have been inspected as part of a major compliance operation targeting unlicensed work and construction standards.

Building Commission NSW inspectors visited sites in locations including Cumbalum, Lennox Head, Goonellabah, Kingscliff, Casuarina, Mullumbimby and Tweed Heads South during ‘Operation Broadwater’.

The inspections focused on licensing requirements, site signage, plumbing work and electrical installations.

While inspectors reported most builders were complying with regulations, the operation resulted in 35 fines and 40 Written Direction Notices being issued.

Among the penalties were 23 fines for unlicensed work or contracting and five fines for incorrect site signage. Another five fines related to non-compliant plumbing work associated with heat pump installations, while two involved electrical compliance issues.

Inspectors also issued Written Direction Notices covering a range of safety concerns, including missing safety data sheets for battery systems, inadequate switch labelling and insufficient signage detailing battery system voltages and currents.

Building Commissioner James Sherrard said unlicensed work and electrical compliance issues remained a concern across regional NSW.

“While most tradespeople were doing the right thing, unlicensed work and electrical compliance remain an issue that Building Commission NSW continues to see throughout the state,” he said.

Building Commission NSW said it would continue conducting inspections and industry education programs across the North Coast and other regional areas throughout the year.