Building problems

All new constructions or buildings are susceptible to changes that are very often referred to incorrectly as “ defects”. There are a number of physical adjustments that every building should go through in its early stage. Some common changes may include : settlement, shrinkage, friction between different materials. Nowadays Structural Engineers have sought to minimized these changes at design stage by introducing expansion and construction joints, reinforcement design among many other solutions. Nevertheless, some movements are unforeseen and difficult to predict. Generally, in any new construction, builders will grant a period of rectification of these changes as part of the contract. This is referred to as a “ Defect Liability Period”. The DLP is generally offered for a period of 12 months depending on the type and complexity of the construction.

In some cases, building defects are caused by improper building procedures or omission of design recommendation during construction. Lately we have witnessed a large number of buildings around Sydney condemned as unleavable as they are deemed unsafe and structurally inhabitable. A Royal Commissioner has been appointed to investigate and make recommendations on this fast spreading phenomenon in the building industry. It is a huge and difficult task that the Commissioner has embarked on. These task is complex because of the involvement of a myriad of consultants, private certifiers and controlling bodies, and government regulators.