There’ll be increased scrutiny of private certifiers to stop unscrupulous behaviour in the building and construction industry.

Private certifiers caught issuing false certificates for developments could now face fines of more than a million dollars and two years jail.

A third of private certifiers across the state will be audited each year.

The system is in the spotlight after a structural defect was found in the walls of the Opal Tower in Sydney Olympic Park, forcing hundreds of residents out of their homes.

Labor wants everyone involved in construction needs to be more accountable.

But Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean says Labor created the problem when it introduced the private certification system.

An independent investigation will look at defects with the Opal Tower.

Planning Minister Anthony Roberts tells Chris Smith those caught not following the rules will be placed on a name and shame register.

“As those audits uncover, or don’t uncover things,  those certifiers will be placed on that register.”

He says he audits will commence in the New Year.

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