Across Australia (and the world), building companies scramble to reclad buildings with combustible cladding elements; many are left confused about the process. While governments have been clear about the ‘what’ – that Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) and Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) in unsafe quantities must be removed from high-rise buildings – they haven’t been as clear about the ‘how’.

Here are five things that every building owner or property manager should know before beginning their recladding process.

The Laws

Extensive regulations surround the removal and replacement of combustible cladding in Victoria and throughout Australia. These cover everything from timelines of replacement to the removed materials’ transport. All building owners should know the regulations in place before they begin a recladding project. These are stipulated by the Victorian Government and Cladding Safety Victoria.

The Cost

This is an essential aspect of recladding and one that every building owner will be eager to know. The exact cost of recladding will depend on how much combustible cladding is included on the façade of a particular building as well as the size and location of that building. The recladding materials chosen will also affect the cost.

If you are a building that has been prioritised for cladding rectification by Cladding Safety Victoria, you may be eligible for potential funding. If this is the case, you will be contacted by Cladding Safety Victoria who invites participants into the program.

The Material

As building owners and owners corporations start to plan their recladding, the choice of building material will be a critical component. There are various alternatives to combustible cladding that are long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing and safe for residents. For more information on compliant façade panelling, we’ve delved deeper into the topic here.

The Disposal

The Government of Victoria has strict regulations on the disposal of combustible cladding materials. For instance, combustible cladding should be transported in a horizontal position in order to avoid spontaneous combustion. It will be necessary to engage a building practitioner who has knowledge and experience in these areas.

Only certain facilities are licensed to accept combustible cladding waste. Cladding Safety Victoria will keep the records of these disposals for future reference. When starting your project, you must ensure that you’re aware of these restrictions as well as that your contracted builder is complying with these rules.

The Building Expert

Prior to beginning a cladding rectification project, the number one most crucial step will be selecting a building partner to handle the removal with care. Doing your research to find a partner that will look out for your best interests, and the interests of other stakeholders such as residents will be a priority.

If you need help recladding your building, contact the experts in cladding replacement at Maz Group today to discuss your building project or receive a quote for recladding services.