Building a fire risk

A NOBLE Park apartment building was placing lives at risk, the Victorian Building Authority has found.
Property owners are facing a bill of almost $500,000 to fix the building’s problems, following a VBA building order in response to fire safety concerns.
An inspection revealed the building did not have adequate fire safety measures such as portable fire extinguishers, suitable fire exit doors, a compliant fire hydrant system and sufficient smoke detection and alarm systems.
A developer constructed the three-storey residential building and individuals bought the 55 apartments, which are mostly occupied by international students from a nearby university.
VBA compliance and performance director Murray Smith said nearly all buildings in Victoria, including houses, must meet fire safety requirements under the Building Regulations 2006.“The problems identified with the building meant that there was a risk to life and safety for the occupants,” he said.
“To comply with the building order, the owners must arrange for work to be carried out and appropriate fire safety equipment and systems installed.”
Temporary safety measures are in place while the work is completed.
“When the plans for the building were developed, there was little consideration for fire safety,” Mr Smith said.
“As a result, the owners are now fixing the problem, at a cost of almost $500,000.
“The owners have been very co-operative throughout the process.
“But it would have saved a lot of money and time for everyone involved if the developers had made sure the required safety measures were installed when the building was constructed.”
Mr Smith said this was a reminder about the importance of doing homework before purchasing a property.
“If you are thinking of buying a house or a building, you should consider arranging a professional inspection to make sure it is safe and meets the building regulations before you buy,” he said.
The building surveyor who issued the building’s occupancy permit is no longer registered.