Certified Engineers Now Mandatory for Building Construction in Tamil Nadu

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu  government has mandated that from now on, construction of houses will only be allowed if certified by government-registered engineers.

Government Mandate

The  state government's decision comes in the wake of several incidents where approved buildings collapsed, causing significant public uproar and loss of lives. A notable incident occurred in Mugalivakkam, Chennai, where an 11-story residential building collapsed, resulting in multiple fatalities and leaving buyers in distress. This prompted the government to take stringent actions.

New Regulations

Following  extensive reviews and consultations with construction experts, associations, and organizations, the government issued a new directive in February. As per this directive, any new buildings constructed in Tamil Nadu must have certification from government-registered engineers.

Key Requirements

1. Certified Engineers: 

The construction plans, design, supervision, quality control, and compliance with the approved plans must be certified by registered engineers.

   

2. Building Height Regulations: 

For buildings up to 12 meters in height, approval must be obtained from a registered building architect or engineer. For buildings exceeding 12 meters but within 18.30 meters, approval from a registered developer is necessary.

3. Additional Approvals: 

For taller buildings, additional approvals from structural engineers, construction engineers, and geotechnical engineers are required.

Certification and Compliance

- Completion Certificate: 

Engineers must certify that the building has been constructed according to the approved plans before a completion certificate is issued.

- Accountability: 

If any major issues such as large cracks or collapses occur in the certified buildings, the responsible engineers’ registrations will be revoked.

Importance of the New Directive

- Safety Assurance: 

The new regulations aim to ensure the safety and structural integrity of buildings, thereby preventing future collapses and associated casualties.

- Quality Control: 

Mandatory certification by qualified engineers introduces a higher level of quality control in construction practices.

- Professional Accountability: 

By holding engineers accountable, the government aims to deter negligence and encourage adherence to high standards in construction.

Conclusion

The Tamil Nadu government's decision to require certification from registered engineers for building construction is a significant step towards ensuring the safety and quality of buildings. This move not only enhances the regulatory framework but also instills greater confidence among property buyers and residents. The directive emphasizes the importance of professional oversight and accountability in the construction industry, ultimately aiming to safeguard public welfare and property investments.