BUILDING LAWS

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26558, 5 September 1947, Page 6

BUILDING LAWS

USE OF MATERIALS REGULATIONS WIDENED EXTENSIVE POWERS FOR CONTROLLER P.A. WELLINGTON, Sept. 4. Building control in New Zealand is altered and widened by an amendment to the Building Emergency Regulations. 1939, gazetted to-night. The amendment adds to the definition of “constructional work” the following: “ Or any other work whatsoever (including maintenance or replacement work) requiring the use of materials or goods which are capable of being used in or for the purposes of the construction of any building or other erection." Duties.* of Local Authorities Where the consent of the Building Controller is required, the local authority issuing the permit or consent must issue with it a statement that the permit, or consent is issued subject to the conditions laid down by. the controller and must attach a copy of those conditions. Power is given for the controller to require the owner to demolish, pull down, alter or remove constructional work or material where building materials are used in contravention of the regulations. If the owner fails or refuses to observe or comply with the requirements of the controller' he commits an offence and is liable accordingly. If an owner is convicted of such an offence the controller may ■cause the constructional work or materials to be demolished, pulled down, altered or removed, the owner being liable for the cost. The controller mav.also sell the materials removed and apply the proceeds towards the expenses incurred, paying the surplus, if any, td the owner.

The right of entry and inspection to any premises where it is suspected that building material is kept or constructional work is being done or has been done during the preceding six months is given to the controller or any person authorised in writing by him. Every person commits an offence against the Supply Control Emergency Regulations, 1939, and is liable accordingly, who proceeds with any constructional work in respect of which a permit or consent is required without first obtaining the permit or consent or. having obtained a permit or consent, proceeds with the work otherwise than in accordance with the conditions imposed by the controller. Control Over Materials Also gazetted to-night is Building Construction Control Notice No. 23, which revokes three previous control notices and consolidates them under one heading. The materials referred to include roofing iron, asbestos-cement roofing sheets, copper construction of doors, and the use of cement.