Is Your Balcony or Deck Safe?

The tragic collapse of a balcony in a rented property over the weekend highlights the need for regular inspections by a suitably qualified building practitioner. All balconies and decks are constructed to carry a specific load and should not be overloaded. Signs that a balcony or deck may have deteriorated include:

• It feels unsteady or bounces underfoot;
• There are signs of cracking or bowing;
• It has loose bolts;
• It looks like it hasn’t been well maintained;
• It hasn’t been painted for a while;
• It’s showing signs of timber rot, rust or water damage;
• There’s creaking or flexibility in joists or beams;
• There are heavy items that might put the structure under pressure;
• It looks like it was an informal, or unapproved construction;
• It’s more than 20 years old.