Several people aspire to build a dream home or own a commercial property for an extra income.
However, during these tough economic times, most people build on a tight budget; squeezing resources here and there. For this, some end up hiring unqualified people to do the work of experts, saying civil and electrical engineers, architects and plumbers are expensive.
However, engineer Joseph Acai senior investigations officer with the National Building Review Board (NBRB) says, the built environment sector is guided by laws. These include; the building control act of 2013, the building control regulations 2020 and the building standards among others.
These regulatory frameworks provide guidelines of what each developer or homeowner is supposed to do.
Most importantly, the laws dictate that you hire professionals to draw designs and supervise. This is because those professionals are supposed to adhere to the quality standards which is the beginning of ensuring the quality of any structure.
Secondly, the law also mandates local authorities to have building committees. For example, if your site is in Kira municipality, you are under Kira Municipal Council Building committee. It is responsible for monitoring building developments right from construction including approvals and issuance of building permits.
Acai says those engineers have to test the building materials such as concrete and ensure that standards are adhered to. The Kira building control officer is supposed to regularly inspect the site especially, class A buildings such as the apartments.
“We don’t expect them to issue certificates on buildings that don’t comply with the law,” he says.
Deo Kalikumutima, a real estate lawyer with Kalikumutima and Co. Advocates adds saying, to secure your house or property, you need to satisfy yourself on the compliance of those laws. This is why you need a lawyer to ensure compliance with the laws lest your property goes to waste.
“Do not lose your money due to ignorance of the laws regulating the housing sector. Engage an advocate for guidance,” he says.
The advocate will also assist you in drafting, reviewing and finalizing property sale agreements, conducting due diligence to verify property titles, effect property transfers, represent you in negotiations, dispute resolutions and provide legal advice to safeguard your interests.
