Developer ordered to fix 42 defects at 41 Yattenden Crescent in Baulkham Hills

A newly completed Hills District apartment building has come under scrutiny after ‘cracking’ and water leaks were uncovered in an inspection by the state’s building watchdog.

A photo of the building identified in the defects order.

The developer of a newly-built apartment block in Sydney’s northwest has been ordered to carry out rectification works after an inspection by the state’s building watchdog uncovered more than 40 separate defects at the site.

A building work rectification order has been issued by Fair Trading NSW to developer Elora The Hills Pty Ltd following an inspection of the multi unit $14.5m residential building at 41 Yattenden Cres in Baulkham Hills

The inspection identified a total of 42 defects that, according to Fair Trading, failed to comply with Australian building standards.

The defects included cracking observed in concrete walls of a common area in the building, and uncontrolled cracking between 2-4mm in basement walls, slabs and soffits.

Multiple defects identified related to inadequate waterproofing works including balconies that had no visible overflow to prevent water from ponding, and lack of drainage in common areas.

A photo of the development. Picture: Realestate.com.au

Fair Trading also observed water seeping through cracked walls of the planter boxes, indicating the waterproofing membrane has failed.

Inspectors identified multiple defects relating to fire safety standards including obstructed fire sprinklers, lack of emergency exit signage, and lack of smoke detectors in sections of the building.

NSW Building Commission acting executive director of building operations Matt Press, who issued the order on July 11, has required all defects to be remediated within six months to ensure the building meets compliance standards.

A photo of the building identified by Fair Trading NSW.

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

“However, the cost to the developer must be balanced against the benefit to the owners and occupiers of the development in having the development constructed to approved plans, the Building Code of Australia and Australian standards.”

It is understood a representative of the developer has agreed to meet with Fair Trading to discuss the inspection report and a “satisfactory path to remediation”.

Planning records show the five-storey development – which is known as The Elora building – was approved by The Hills Shire Council and is currently occupied by residents.

The development is advertised to buyers and tenants as offering “modern and luxurious apartments” which are “complete with quality and premium fixtures and finishes”.