Council seeks legal advice after allegations of unlicensed building inspectors
Final certification documents on 11 Eurobodalla development approvals may be in doubt.
Last week the Bay Post’s Tim Grey published a story alleging that unlicensed certifiers had been operating for Eurobodalla Shire Council.
The story said “Eurobodalla Shire Council is facing the risk of millions in fines after a whistleblower revealed to the Bay Post that unlicensed inspectors had allegedly signed multiple occupancy certificates for homes across the shire.
Two separate sources from inside council allege at least 14 certificates may have been improperly issued. Council has confirmed it is aware of the unlicensed inspectors, and is investigating 11 invalid occupation certificates.”
“The homes are scattered throughout the shire, with buildings allegedly in Catalina, Long Beach, Kianga, Surf Beach, Narooma, Lilli Pilli, Batemans Bay and Maloneys Beach affected.”
The story said “If the allegations around the 14 invalid certificates are proven, Eurobodalla Shire Council could be open to fines more than $1,540,000.”
A Council spokesperson told the Moruya Mail: “Council is aware of alleged anomalies in the final certification documents on 11 Eurobodalla development approvals. This matter is subject to a legal review, once investigations are complete and any anomalies rectified, Council will present its findings to the Building Commissioner as it works toward a resolution for property owners.”
“The legal uncertainty relates only to the occupation certificate – all inspections appear to have been done by registered certifiers. Letters have been sent to 11 affected property owners, and Council will work with them going forward. Only affected property owners will be notified. If you have not been contacted by Council regarding an occupation certificate, you are not affected” the spokesperson said.
“Council is working with a legal firm to understand potential avenues to rectify the situation. Ensuring property owners are not left vulnerable is a priority for Council.
Council cannot comment on staff employment or disciplinary matters.”