We remind our members that we all have responsibilities to follow relevant legislation in the construction of a building.

Recent fires at Grenfell Tower, London and the Lacrosse Apartments, Melbourne have raised concerns with both government and key industry stakeholders. The present concern is predominantly around the misuse and installation of cladding systems that are required to be non-combustible.

All buildings must be constructed to a standard which, in principle, is measured against the performance provisions of the applicable Building Code of Australia that forms part of the National Construction Code series – Volume 1 being the relevant code for class 2 – 9 buildings (which includes apartment-type buildings). The incorrect selection or use of non-compliant or non-conforming building products is of a major concern to the industry.

The installation of both non-conforming and non-compliant products that form part of an external wall cladding system is a substantial risk to life and property, particularly in multi-storey buildings, and even more so in buildings in which people reside.

The Minister for Planning has issued a Ministerial Guideline entitled ‘Issue of building permits where building work involves the use of certain cladding products’.

The minister’s guideline applies to all buildings determined to be of Type A and /or Type B Construction. It further states that the Relevant Building Surveyor should not be satisfied that the proposed work complies if it includes ‘Prescribed Combustible Material’ unless an application has been first made to the Building Appeals Board and been determined to comply.

The minister’s guide clearly defines what a ‘Prescribed Combustible Product’ is. It is important that we administer our own responsibilities and be aware that the use of combustible cladding is a serious issue.

Be mindful that the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) is auditing buildings across the state to identify whether combustible cladding has been used as part of the external cladding system.

To seek further advice on cladding, consult the VBA here.

Further information is also available from the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) website here.