Early Notification for Building Owners

Dunedin, 27 February 2012 - This week, the DCC will begin a mail out to owners of non-residential buildings, notifying them of the requirement to have their buildings inspected with regard to earthquake safety.

Building owners have two years to get these initial assessments done so that, from the information collected, the DCC can compile a register of earthquake-prone buildings in the city. Those building owners who have already had their buildings inspected can send the information to the DCC for inclusion on the register.

When an engineer’s assessment is completed, owners will know what is required to bring their buildings up to the required standard and the timeframe for doing so. Depending on the use and current performance of the building, this will range from 15-30 years. Buildings undergoing significant alterations or change of use have shorter timeframes.

The DCC will work closely with owners of buildings to improve the safety of people in and around their buildings, without having to resort to demolishing buildings that make up the character of the city.

There is a team of Building Control and City Planning staff available to help heritage building owners with their plans, as well as a number of incentives in place, including the Dunedin Heritage Fund, rates relief and targeted rates.

The letters will include an extensive list of frequently asked questions to ensure building owners have the information they need.

• Click here for building owner FAQs.
• Click here to see the letter to building owners.

ENDS

© Scoop Media