Suspicious fire a major setback, says builder

A near-completed unit destroyed in a suspicious fire on the Eastern Shore will have to be knocked down and rebuilt, the contractor has revealed.

A UNIT under construction on Hobart’s Eastern Shore that was just weeks away from completion will likely have to be demolished after a fire on Monday morning caused severe damage.

Emergency services responded to the blaze at Hart Place, Rokeby about 5.30am.

The unit was one of 10 being constructed at the site for a private developer.

“Especially with everything else going on at the moment, trying to keep everyone in their jobs, it’s a bit frustrating,’’ JTAS Builders owner Tristan Goc said.

“We were supposed to be handing over this and starting another job in three weeks’ time.”

Emergency services investigate a fire at a block of units under construction at Rokeby. Picture: CHRIS KIDD

Mr Goc said construction of the units had started about 12 months ago, but the fire was a major setback.

“We suspect it will be a complete demolition and rebuild of that structure,’’ he said. “Structurally, the integrity of the place is not sound unfortunately. The brickwork is cracked, and there is smoke and water damage all throughout.”

The fire is being treated as suspicious. Picture Chris Kidd

Police confirmed they were treating the fire as suspicious.

Sergeant Adrian Mollon said damage to the unit was expected to exceed $100,000.

“It is believed that several hot water cylinders stored in the unit have been stolen prior to the fire being reported,’’ he said.

“The quick response from the local TFS brigade prevented further damage to the unit.”

Anyone with information should call police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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