There have been several balcony collapses in Victoria and interstate in recent years where people have been killed or seriously injured. The aim of this local safety campaign – part of a statewide initiative -  is to prevent a repeat of such incidents in the future.

Said Wellington Shire Council’s Municipal Building Surveyor Mr Barry Nicholl: "It’s very important that householders carry out regular maintenance and checks on their balconies. All real estate agents and home owners selling properties with large decks, or high balconies, especially in coastal areas, should have them checked professionally, as a precaution, if there is any doubt on their safety.

"It is important people understand we are not just talking about illegal building in relation to collapsing balconies but mainly about the issue of maintenance of balconies which have been legally built and approved which need to have regular maintenance.

"The extensive use of Oregon Beams for exterior balconies in the past is a major problem if the beams have not been adequately protected. This timber has limited exterior durability and collapses often reveal Oregon which has rotted from exposure to the elements.    

"Balconies by their very nature are outside areas of the building and are exposed to the elements. If not suitably maintained and constantly monitored, they can fail in spectacular fashion, especially when a large number of people have gathered on the structure.

It’s also important to realise that Home owners and real estate agents who sell homes with unsafe balconies which collapse subsequently, causing injury or even death could face serious legal and damages claims.

"Agents and anybody buying a property would be well advised to ask vendors for the details of any building permits issued for the building of the balcony or deck to ensure that it was legally approved.

"This will assist to gain an understanding of when the deck was built and the maintenance which could be required.

"Timber and concrete balconies which are exposed to the elements require constant checking and, where necessary, maintenance to be carried out."                                                                                                                                             

To help protect home owners and prospective home buyers Archicentre have released a special free balcony checklist which is available through their website at www.archicentre.com.au/balconytips.pdf

Anyone who would like more information can contact Barry Nicholl at the council on 5142 3414.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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