Noida Authority Proposes Mandatory Building Audits
In response to persistent complaints about subpar construction quality, the Noida Authority is formulating a policy to mandate structural inspections of buildings both before and after their handover by government authorities or designated contracting engineers. Upon approval, developers, and subsequently, apartment owners associations (AOAs), will bear the responsibility for conducting these periodic inspections and executing any necessary repairs identified in the resulting reports.
Pre-Approval Inspections
According to departmental representatives, before the project layout map receives approval, developers will be directed to undertake structural audits of buildings during the construction of common areas, specifically at three distinct stages of the building process. The Noida Authority has made it clear that failure to comply with these mandatory checks will result in the withholding of the no-objection certificate.
Dedicated Inspection Authorities
While many developers currently engage project management consultants, there is no existing mechanism for independent physical inspections during the construction phase. The proposed policy stipulates that builders must contract with integrated agencies authorized by the Authority to perform these crucial building inspections. The Authority believes that this measure will not only ensure construction quality but will also curb various building violations, such as the construction of unauthorized additional floors and the utilization of substandard materials. Once the building is completed, the builder will retain responsibility for its structural integrity for the initial five years. Subsequently, the AOAs will likely be tasked with contracting for and financing regular structural audits and any resultant repairs.
Expert Opinion and Resident Advocacy
Nikhil Saxena, a Noida-based civil engineer, emphasized the importance of regular assessments: “The lifespan of a building is typically 50 years. Every five to seven years, the building must be assessed for compliance with the latest standards, earthquakes and seasonal conditions”. His perspective was echoed by the Noida Citizens Forum (NCF), who met with Authority officials on Wednesday to advocate for mandatory structural audits every five years.
Ankit Arora, NCF Secretary, underscored the safety concerns of residents: “The safety of people living in high-rise buildings has long been a concern. But so far no concrete measures have been taken.”