Preventive maintenance compulsory for buildings…..Linah Baliga
Mumbai: Building owners and residents will now have to ensure the structures are wellmaintained.The BMC has made it compulsory for building owners and residents (occupants ) to compulsorily maintain their buildings,periodically,atleast once in five years.
The civic body has included a special clause in the model bye-laws for structural audit of buildings under section 353(b) of the Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai Act (1888),called the preventive maintenance concept for buildings.
The BMC guidelines say preventive maintenance will curb depreciation and improve both,the appearance and performance of various components in each building.It will also help increase the lifespan of the building.
Regular inspection of a building will alert the owner to things needing maintenance or repairs.Building inspection is an objective visual examination of physical structure and systems of the building from the roof to the foundation.It also includes painting and minor repairs.Areas of a building inspected shall include structure,electrical system,heating system,AC,lifts,plumbing,roof surface,drainage,chimneys,interior and exterior wall components,doors,windows,parking and driveways, said a civic official in the development plan department.
It shall be ensured that all the components will be examined atleast once a year.The inspection shall be documented and details of inspection and observation will be recorded in a register maintained by the owner, said the civic official.
The amended draft regulation with the special clause on structural audits for buildings is awaiting clearance from the urban development department.