Governor Evans Kidero in plan to rein in errant contractors

The county government has developed a Construction Audit and Enforcement Strategic plan set to be launched on January 15, 2015 by Governor Dr Evans Kidero.

Speaking to The Standard Deputy Governor, Jonathan Mueke said the plan is expected to ensure there is adequate capacity to reign in unauthorised development targeting both developers and contractors.

“The aim of the strategy committee will be to respond to poor standards of buildings and constructions which is taking place at an alarming rate in Nairobi City, outside the county government’s approval process,” the deputy governor said.

BUILDINGS AUDIT

Planning and Housing Executive Tom Odongo said materials used on all building and construction sites will also have to undergo mandatory testing by the county’s approved private labs.

The executive said disciplinary action will be instituted against site engineers if there is proof that they deviated from using the tested materials.

Mr Odongo said the strategy also involves a method to rid Nairobi of unregistered contractors and builders, ensure that unapproved developments do not get services and educate Nairobians that only certified buildings should be rented and occupied.

“We will carry out a comprehensive audit of buildings and develop a database for those that are certified as unsafe for occupation,” the executive said.

He continued: “Part of this county’s problem has been the continued use of sub-standard materials by developers and contractors. We have already, in line with this, taken some of the building materials used in the collapsed Makongeni building for further analysis,” he said.