Waterproofing licensing changes: What to expect
23 July 2026

Wet-area waterproofing is a major risk area for any build. The cost of any small failure to substrates, membrane junctions, shower trays and bathroom drains can far exceed the upfront build.

That’s why the Government has announced it is progressing work to establish a new LBP waterproofing class, with the aim of improving accountability and giving homeowners more confidence that wet-area work is being completed by people who are suitably qualified.

What’s likely to happen? 

During earlier consultation, MBIE announced its preference was to create a new Internal Waterproofing licence class and expand the definition of restricted building work to include the “application of internal waterproofing”. If that approach is adopted, it would mean internal waterproofing could only be carried out, or supervised, by an LBP with a licence for that specific class of work.  

The final details have not yet been confirmed, including the exact timing, transition period, competency requirements, or full scope of work that will be captured. However, the proposal has received significant support from the industry, and the Government has signalled that the changes will be introduced sometime in 2026.   

In line with other LBP classes, licensed practitioners will likely need to show they are competent to carry out or supervise internal waterproofing work, keep their skills up to date, and provide Records of Work (including photography or video) for the waterproofing they complete or supervise. For builders and main contractors, it may also mean checking earlier in the project who is doing the waterproofing, whether they are appropriately licensed or supervised, and how that work will be documented before the job reaches sign-off.  

The trades most likely to be affected include waterproofing membrane applicators, tilers, shower installers, bathroom floor installers and some vinyl layers. Builders, plumbers, designers and architects may also feel the change in practice, particularly where they’re coordinating bathrooms, laundries or level-entry showers.  
 

What should you be doing now? 

For now, if you’re looking to become an LBP for this kind of work, the best move is to get your paperwork and processes in good shape. Get used to keeping clear records of product systems used, training completed, supplier accreditations, site photos, substrate preparation, application details, inspections and sign-offs. If the new class lands as expected, that kind of discipline will make it easier to demonstrate proficiency and achieve the required licence.

For more on the coming changes, visit the Building Performance website.