The definition of what is a structural building component and therefore what is a structural defect is a hotly debated issue in Western Australian construction.
The problems arise when a contract for the purchase of a new home may state that structure is the load bearing components of a building only. Whereas a contract for building a new building may refers to those type of components which serve to support the structure of a building as being structural elements. Some building legislation goes even further to states that anything which forms or effects the structural building components is considered a structural building component! This all may seem confusing.....
...SO what does this mean for you?
1. We know that brick walls, concrete slabs (the structural part) and roof frames are most certainly structural building components.
2. We also know waterproofing (showers and wet areas) and weatherproofing (windows and roof coverings) should be considered secondary structural components. This is because although they do not provide shape or directly support the structure of the building, failure will cause a loss of amenity and damage to structural building components over time if left unchecked.
3. Internal doors, cabinetry, floor tiles are non- structural.
*****But remember regardless of whether the component is structural of not you are still protected by consumer law to get defective work rectified for 6 years regardless whether it is structural or not.******
Contact SHS building Consultants to find out how this may affect you!
