A BUILDING developer has been hit with a costly retrofit after failing to install appropriate internal fire sprinklers into a four-storey apartment block in Dandenong.
Vansan Construction had originally completed its self-proclaimed “South Yarra style apartments” in 38 King Street in April 2012.
On its website, the company promotes the block – titled Vansan House – as a “super luxury apartment complex comprising 14 generous sized dwellings with exclusive facilities for a superior lifestyle”.
The building’s occupancy permit was however revoked by a private building surveyor after a Building Commission contractor found an issue with “appropriate fire safety services and materials”.
The commission’s investigation had been triggered by a CFA complaint.
The building has been recently covered with scaffolding during the retro-fitting works.
Last week, Vansan Construction managing director Shan Sutharsan said the company was applying the finishing touches.
He estimated there had been about eight months delay but declined to estimate its cost.
“We haven’t sold any of the apartments. We’ve still got to pass the final inspection.
“There’s still a few more things to finish off and we’ll wait till we get those done first.”
Building Commissioner Greg Hyams said the building’s fire safety materials and services had failed to comply with the Building Act.
The flaws – which were “not common” – were detected near the end of the building’s completion, he said.
The commission had not pulled up Vansan for such breaches in the past.
“(The problem) can be avoided by ensuring all materials and services used in construction comply with the appropriate Australian Standards and are installed to ensure they meet the National Construction Code,” Mr Hyams said.
“The building is not occupied, which is important in terms of life safety.
“An occupancy permit will not be issued until the building is safe and fully compliant with the Building Act.”
Greater Dandenong’s city planning director Jody Bosman said the council’s municipal building surveyor worked closely with the Building Commission on the matter.
– Cameron Lucadou-Wells
