Ministry building up a matrix of accountability
29/07/2007 Sunday Star

KUALA LUMPUR: Architects, engineers, plumbers and electricians will all have to take responsibility for their parcel in building a house.

Calling on all parties involved in construction, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting urged them to meet specifications or risk being caught by the process termed matrix responsibility implemented under the Certificate of Compliance and Completion (CCC).

Under the CCC, which has replaced the Certificate of Fitness for Occupation (CFO), the ministry can trace construction of houses at various stages with papers signed by those in charge, besides just the architect and engineers.

Citing an example, Ong said that a plumber who had finished installing water pipes in the house, would have to sign on the paper to state that specifications were met and have an architect counter sign it.

“When a house buyer discovers defects in the house, the ministry will be able to trace (those responsible) by referring to those papers submitted,” he said.

Ong said that apart from going after housing developers, the ministry would also be able to trace the culprits at construction level, adding that action could be taken against them.

He was speaking to reporters yesterday after launching the 3rd International Homebuyer Property Investor 2007 held from July 27 to 29 at the KL Convention Centre.