Balconies: Access Your Rights and Responsibilities

Feb. 14, 2012 - PRLog -- Balconies can be dangerous if they are constructed without the necessary permits, by unverified tradespeople, or not properly maintained.  Even a structurally sound balcony can prove dangerous, especially but not exclusively for children, when dimensional standards are not met. It is important to meet or update balcony standards in order to avoid accidents and penalties.

“Constructing a balcony to the correct dimensions is not the only necessary precaution for avoiding accidents and penalties. A balcony can prove dangerous if it is constructed insecurely or not properly maintained”, said Pia Vogel, HomeSource Joint Managing Director

“Balcony construction standards today dictate that railings should be one meter or higher and that the space between rails must be less than 12.5 centimeters.

“These standards have been put in place to help prevent children falling from balconies”, Ms Vogel said.

Today, Fair Trading NSW reports that 50 children fall from balconies per year in NSW (on average), and a small fraction of these cases result in fatalities .

“Furthermore, the standards to which a balcony was constructed in the past may deviate from today’s standards.  If balcony standards are not met it can result in penalties, for the owner and constructor, as well as potential accidents.  

At HomeSource we recommend you have a good thorough look at your balconies, and if there is any doubt bring in a licensed contractor to take a professional look and fix it if required”, said Ms Vogel.

The Building Commission Victoria’s investigations found a number of rotting balconies which could potentially cause fatal accidents . The Commission’s Maintenance of Balconies brochure insists that, “Any balcony has the potential, if not appropriately maintained, to fail at some stage. The legal and financial implications for home owners are enormous.”  

The brochure implies that maintenance standards are multifaceted; there are many things that need to be considered such as termites, wet rot and corrosion. Furthermore, it suggests that the balcony needs to be inspected regularly whether warning signs are present or not. The Commission insists all home owners and property investors should ensure the construction of the balcony takes place only after the required permits have been issued. Moreover, balcony inspections need to be performed by qualified building practitioners.

“The construction, renovation and maintenance of balconies are complex matters. There are many legal regulations and restrictions involved that differ from case to case and change over time”, Ms Vogel said.

HomeSource Access provides, for its members, the opportunity to speak with qualified lawyers and builders regarding construction matters, providing all the resources necessary on your rights and responsibilities when it comes to any home related issues.

HomeSource Access also offers access to the HomeSource Find A Tradesperson database of fully qualified, insured and licensed tradespeople for projects or maintenance jobs
To insure yourself against future issues, or for more information, call 1300 733 420 or visit the HomeSource website.