By now, everyone is aware of our team’s commitment to the development application and design development stage of projects that come through our office. However, when site inspections reach the preliminary and final stages, there is a general phobia and misconception that we’re ‘Black and White’, and if something is wrong, it needs to be corrected under AS1428.1.
In this imperfect world, there are times when certain building elements are incorrect under the Deemed to Satisfy provisions of the Building Code of Australia (BCA) and adjustments will need to be made. However, our team subscribes to the methodology of trying to find ‘alternative solutions’ when finishes are non-compliant at the built stage. Ultimately, these non-compliant finishes do not necessarily need to be ripped out and reworked. A resolution can be used to consider implementing other products and adjustments under an alternative solution, as there is awareness that certain things cannot be undone.
Recently, we dealt with a case where an entry door leading into a common-use residential garbage area was non-compliant. This door had a latch side clearance that needed 530mm but measured 500mm, clearly non-compliant under BCA and AS1428.1. At the time, it was observed and acknowledged that ‘it would be very difficult to remove block work’, given the existing restraints of the surrounding area. At this point, a determination was made to use a ‘ball catch’ system to overcome this issue under an alternative solution.
Although this product is not a typical ‘off-the-shelf’ item from Bunnings, the $56 ball catch system was installed at low cost and with no downtime to the project schedule. This was a well-supported outcome from the builder compared to the rectification cost.
Our team works closely with architects and builders to ensure the project conforms to the BCA and AS1428.1. There will be times when reworks need to be considered within a development to satisfy codes. However, it is my approach and the approach of others on our team that alternative measures can be put in place by way of products or supportive solutions that can make a difference.
This process involves the collaborative efforts of all parties to ensure the next project does not have the same non-compliance.
