‘Serious defects, cracks’ uncovered at Waterloo apartment development, building watchdog says

A recently completed unit development has come under scrutiny from the state’s building watchdog after it says more than 40 separate defects were discovered at the site.

48 separate defects were identified by inspectors within the development.

A recently completed Sydney development has been ordered to carry out rectification works after an inspection by the state’s building watchdog is said to have uncovered more than 40 defects at the site.

A building work rectification order has been issued by Fair Trading NSW following an inspection of the apartment building at 707-711 Elizabeth St in Waterloo.

The building watchdog says that an inspection of the 35-unit development identified 48 separate defects that, according to Fair Trading, failed to comply with Australian building standards.

The development was approved by local planning authorities six years ago and has units currently advertised to buyers as offering space, exclusive rooftop terrace access, contemporary flair and leafy views.

The alleged defects included cracking in walls of common areas within the fourth level of the building, as well as uncontrolled cracking in the ground floor and basement of the building.

The rectification order was issued on Monday. Photo: Google Maps.

Multiple alleged defects related to waterproofing were identified by Fair Trading including “large volumes of ponding water” in roof areas and drainage outlets that restricted the flow of water.

Fire safety standards were another area of concern including fire doors that were deemed by Fair Trading to be undersized and fitted with large gaps exceeding 3mm around the perimeter.

In the building’s basement, emergency exit signage had incorrect directions and was obstructed, the watchdog said

Planning records show the development was approved in 2018.

Sections of mechanical ductwork in the building were further found to have inadequate fire protection.

Other alleged defects included sewer and stormwater drainage pipework that was installed without adequate drainage falls.

NSW Building Commission director of building compliance Matt Press, who issued the order on Monday, has required all defects to be remediated within 120 days to ensure the building meets compliance standards.

He said the “serious defects” identified at the site may “negatively impact the amenity of the development for owners and occupiers”.

“I accept that the order requires considerable further building work that is likely to be costly,” he said.

“However, the cost ... must be balanced against the benefit to the occupiers in having the development constructed to the Building Code of Australia and Australian Standards.

Planning records show the $12.9 million development was approved by the City of Sydney Council in 2018 with 35 apartments split across four levels.