What are the keys things a building surveyor should consider regarding the “Combustible cladding case”?

In 2012, a fire starts in the Lacrosse apartment tower in Melbourne and spreads incredibly quickly through the Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) which ended up significantly damaging the building. As a result, builders, building surveyors, fire engineers and architects are under investigations as whether or not the building’s external cladding was compliant with the fire resistance requirements of the BCA.

Based on this incident, we want to share with you some of the key points a building surveyor has to consider when issuing a Certificate of Design Compliance.

• A building surveyor may have to share the risk and liability when a builder has taken on the responsibility and risk for design and construction;
• Building surveyors, when issuing building permits, approve and consent that they are exercising a statutory decision-making role. They must remember that they are held to the same high standards that apply to Government;
• The knowledge base of a building surveyor is limited depending of their experience therefore they must seek expert assistance if needed and adopt a critical approach in their assessments.

The above is a lesson for the building surveying profession to not rely upon its own understanding but instead, be critical and seek expert assistance.

At Green Start Consulting building surveyors, building designers and engineers are working and sharing their knowledge to ensure your project is compliant in all technical aspects of the BCA. 
Give us a call today to discuss your project and we will make sure we provide you with all the answers you expect from a building surveyor.

Due to constantly evolving legislation the information provided within this blog may no longer be valid. The advice given on this site is general in nature and does not take into account your specific circumstances. Please email one of our building surveyors to check what is right for you.