Housing Development Corporation (HDC) has warned action will be taken against individuals that bring unauthorised structural changes to the flats built in Hulhumale’ under the Veshifahi Male’ Programme.
HDC stated it has received information that some flat owners are bringing major structural changes to the flats, including widening the balconies, demolishing walls to connect rooms and installing additional decks. HDC stated the buildings are designed based on load calculations carried out in accordance to the relevant codes, and may be subjected to cracks and damages if the structure is modified. The corporation said bringing such changes could reduce the lifespan of the buildings.
Furthermore, HDC stated the buildings are designed with consideration to ventilation and circulation as per the building code, which would get compromised if such changes are brought. Therefore, HDC said any changes to the flats must only be brought after seeking the necessary permits from the corporation.
HDC has asked individuals that have brought unauthorised changes to their flats to correct the changes as per the instruction of the Facilities Management of HDC. The corporation also warned action will be taken against individuals that bring such changes without authorisation in the future.