Building inspectors are warning that metal buildings are a growing problem in Edmonton and the surrounding area.
“We are concerned about the increased frequency of metal building incidents and the increased number of metal buildings that we see, the number of incidents in our city,” said Julie Smith, the building inspector for the City of Edmonton.
“This is a problem that we have identified over time, and we are very concerned.”
Smith said the number one concern for her department is the increase in metal buildings.
“It’s not just a problem in our downtown core, but the surrounding areas as well,” she said.
“That’s one of the major reasons that we’ve had to issue this warning.”
The metal building issue started to be highlighted last week when a group of people in the Downtown Eastside decided to stop using metal to build their homes.
The group said they wanted to build a house, but didn’t want to have to use steel or concrete to make the roof and the foundation of their home.
That prompted a city inspector to make an inspection.
It turned out the building was actually a steel building, with metal in it.
Smith said it was a “pretty alarming” situation for her to see, but that there are “proper processes” that are being followed to ensure safety.
The City of Alberta has the responsibility to make sure that buildings comply with building codes.
However, Smith said she doesn’t think there is an immediate risk of the city becoming involved.
“I would say that there’s no need to be in the business of making a recommendation,” she added.
“People are still building their homes in metal, and they should do that in a safe way.” “
The city of Edmonton is currently working with building owners to improve their building code. “
People are still building their homes in metal, and they should do that in a safe way.”
The city of Edmonton is currently working with building owners to improve their building code.
Smith hopes the new regulations will help address concerns.
“You’ve got to have proper building materials in a building to keep it safe,” she explained.
“If we can do that, then people will respect that.”
