Govt. orders inspection of Ruiru, Ruaka buildings

The government has ordered for an inspection and audit of buildings in Kiambu County following rising concern over their structural soundness.

The exercise will be led by the National Buildings Inspectorate.

According to the Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development there have been signs that buildings in Ruiru and Ruaka have shown signs of many buildings that are suspected to be unsafe.

The exercise will cover both buildings under construction and those that are already occupied.

Just last week residents Lancore Apartments were forced to seek alternative housing after the apartment block started showing signs of structural damage.

Housing Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said the audit would be used to restore confidence to tenants who may be at risk.

Developers and building owners will have to present National Environment Authority, National Construction Authority and County Government approvals as well as have their consultants present to take responsibility should the buildings not meet the standards.

“Any site lacking any of the above will be closed immediately and no further construction shall proceed until all conditions are met,” Mr Macharia said.

Landlords and owners will have to present an occupation certificate as well as approved drawings.

The government has had a hard task inspecting buildings in the country as developers and contractors cut corners, putting lives at risk.

In November alone, at least nine people have lost their lives following building collapse incidents.

The National Buildings Inspectorate has concentrated its inspection works in Nairobi but is set to move to other counties.

Mr Macharia has urged tenants to remain cautious and hold building owners and landlords accountable should their buildings show signs of damage.

“All are cautioned that once a building has been marked for further investigation or closure no one should occupy the building or even be engaged for further construction in such a building,” he said.