Concrete cancer has been found and remediated in one of our strata scheme's three blocks. Should we check all units?
Our strata scheme has three blocks under the same strata title. We discovered concrete cancer in one block and it has now been remediated.
Should every unit be checked? How is that done? Owners will be reluctant. If more concrete cancer is found, the cost of remedial works could be colossal.
If concrete cancer is found in one part of a strata building, it is highly recommended to check all areas of similar design or construction.
It is highly recommended to check any areas of similar design or construction for signs of concrete cancer if it has been previously discovered elsewhere.
If it is the same strata property under the same title, it would have been the same builder who constructed the units, and likely the same trades used. Unfortunately, we do see a high volume of defects duplicated in strata schemes due to repeat installation issues. Therefore, it is always best practice to check.
A building consultant or engineer can undertake a visual assessment for telltale signs. If there are any suspicious areas, further investigation can be undertaken. It is possible that only minor works may be required (if any) in comparison to the work already undertaken. Owners should understand that detecting and addressing concrete cancer early can result in significant cost savings, as opposed to leaving it to further deteriorate.
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Bruce McKenzie is National Manager for Commercial Services and Major Projects at Sedgwick's Building Consulting Division, the largest claims management corporation in the world. With over 36 years' experience as a licenced building contractor, Bruce has received multiple state building excellence awards and a National Building Award through Master Builders Australia.
Since joining Sedgwick a decade ago, Bruce has led the growth of its Commercial Services Division, managing major building projects nationally across the insurance and private sectors — including property damage, catastrophe events and large-scale remediation. He has acted as expert witness on high-profile litigation matters, most notably the Lacrosse Tower combustible cladding case, and served as Program Director for Cladding Safety Victoria, overseeing the recladding of over 40 buildings as part of the Victorian Government's $600 million rectification program. In 2022 he commenced a secondment as Program Director for Project Intervene with the NSW Office of the Building Commissioner, addressing serious defects in recently constructed buildings.
Bruce is a licensed builder in NSW, QLD, VIC and ACT, and holds an Advanced Diploma in Building & Construction Management and a Diploma of Project Management.
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