Permit debacle hits 34 households

Jane Emerick
A building permit debacle has entangled 34 homes in the Geelong area, according to Building Commission Victoria.
The commission has suspended Melbourne’s Casey Building Services for allegedly issuing false permits between September, 2005, and August, 2006.
The commission is questioning 780 permits, including 34 in Geelong and on the Surf Coast for works including new homes, renovations, swimming pools and spas.
Building Commissioner Tony Arnel said the organisation would cover the costs of new permits.
“Builders and householders have dealt with the building inspector in good faith and are assured this does not affect the use of the building, their domestic building insurance or home and contents insurance,” he said.
He asked affected permit holders to phone the Building Commission’s hotline on 1300 360 320.