The purpose of ensuring your air-conditioning installation contractor has a QBCC Mechanical Services licence is to ensure the contractor is qualified and competent.
In Queensland from 31 December 2021, a contractor installing a multi-head split system air-conditioning unit must hold a QBCC Mechanical Services licence.
If electrical work is to be carried out as part of the installation then a Queensland electrical contractor’s licence is also required.
Unless exempt under schedule 1A, a person must not carry out, or undertake to carry out, building work unless the person holds a contractor’s licence of the appropriate class under this Act. (s.42 of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld))
An individual must not personally carry out, or personally supervise, mechanical services work unless the individual—
holds a mechanical services occupational licence; or
holds a licence, registration, or authorisation under this Act or another Act that allows the person to personally carry out or personally supervise the work.
(s.42CA of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld))
“Mechanical services work” includes the installation of a mechanical heating or cooling system (air-conditioner) in a building.
However, “Mechanical services work” does not include the installation of a single-head split system (schedule 2 of the Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act 1991 (Qld)).
Search the QBCC Register to find out if your contractor has the required licence:
Click here to access a link to helpful article about the above changes which take effect from 31 December 2021.
Note: The above information is provided as general information only as at 18 April 2023.