35. Defects and hazards at the property

Identifying defects or hazards at a property that could lead to fire or structural failure is crucial for ensuring occupant safety and property preservation.

Here is an elaboration on potential hazards related to the integrity of building materials, structural issues, and non-operative fire/smoke alarm systems: 

Building materials integrity 

• Asbestos: Asbestos was commonly used in building materials for its fire-resistant and insulating properties. However, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) pose serious health risks when disturbed, releasing hazardous fibres into the air that can cause respiratory diseases such as mesothelioma. Properties constructed before the 1990s may contain asbestos in materials such as insulation, roofing, flooring, and ceiling tiles. 
• Cladding: External cladding systems, particularly those incorporating combustible materials such as polyethylene (PE) or high-pressure laminate (HPL), pose fire hazards and contribute to the rapid spread of flames in the event of a fire. Combustible cladding materials have been implicated in several high-profile building fires worldwide, leading to regulatory scrutiny and retrofitting requirements. 

Structural hazards 

• Damaged roofs: Roof defects such as missing or damaged tiles, deteriorated flashing, or compromised waterproofing membranes can allow water ingress, leading to structural damage, mould growth, and increased fire risk. Inadequate roof maintenance or age-related degradation may compromise the integrity of the roof structure and pose safety hazards during severe weather events. 
• Balcony safety: Structural defects or inadequate maintenance of balconies, such as corrosion of metal supports, deterioration of concrete or timber decking, or insufficient guardrails, can pose risks of collapse or falling debris. Balcony failures have occurred due to factors such as water penetration, excessive loading, or poor construction practices. 

Fire and smoke detection systems 

• Non-operative fire/smoke alarms: Inoperative or malfunctioning fire and smoke detection systems compromise early warning capabilities and increase the risk of fire-related injuries and property damage. Faulty smoke detectors, outdated fire alarm panels, or disabled sprinkler systems may fail to alert occupants to fire hazards or activate life-saving suppression measures in a timely manner. 
• Lack of fire safety measures: Properties lacking adequate fire safety measures, such as fire doors, fire-resistant barriers, or evacuation plans, are more vulnerable to fire incidents and structural failure. Failure to comply with fire safety regulations or neglecting maintenance of fire protection systems increases the likelihood of catastrophic events and legal liabilities. 

Mitigation and remediation 

• Professional inspection: Regular inspections by qualified professionals, such as structural engineers, fire safety consultants, or asbestos specialists, are essential for identifying and addressing hazards related to building materials integrity, structural stability, and fire safety systems. 
• Compliance with regulations: Property owners should ensure compliance with building codes, fire safety standards, and regulatory requirements governing the use of hazardous materials, structural integrity, and fire protection measures. 
• Risk assessment and management: Conducting comprehensive risk assessments and implementing risk management strategies, such as remediation of hazardous materials, structural repairs, and upgrading fire safety systems, mitigate potential fire and structural risks and safeguard occupants and property assets.