QC seeks to regulate building construction

In a bid to combat squatting and the erection of illegal structures in various parts of Quezon City, the City Council approved Monday night an ordinance that seeks to regulate the construction, repair, modification and demolition of buildings.

“The main feature of the ordinance is its provision disallowing the construction of any structure in the city without first securing a building permit from the city building officials in consonance with the National Building Code,” Council Majority leader Ariel Inton said.

He said the newly approved ordinance, to be submitted for final approval to Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr., has adequate mechanisms to ensure the safety of residents and proper land use, in conformity with the city’s zoning ordinance.

Aside from mandatory inspection under pertinent laws, building officials or duly authorized representatives shall conduct random inspection of buildings and construction and demolition sites.

If building officials find a structure that poses a danger to residents in the area, they will notify the owners to secure the building or make the necessary repairs.

Belmonte, upon recommendation of the building officials that structures are illegally built, shall order the owner or contractor to secure a building permit within 30 days, after which the city government will demolish the structure.

The measure also provides the mandatory removal of all temporary structures erected within the construction site such as warehouses, bunkers, sleeping quarters and similar structures, including debris for abandoned , dangerous or unfinished structures.   – Perseus Echeminada