Alert: Immediate action required for non-compliance with architectural specifications 

It has come to the attention of the Thermal Insulation Products & Systems Association SA (TIPSASA) that there is a developing trend to not adhere to architectural specifications in buildings, specifically when it comes to thermal insulation. 

Changing specifications 

Specifications are being changed without the knowledge of architects for cheap non-compliant and/or “similar” products, which look the same as the specified product, but are not. Once installed, the professionals are none the wiser and assume that their specification was adhered to. 

If a contractor is found to have changed the specification without the necessary approvals in place, the installed material should be stripped and replaced with the correctly specified material at his cost. 

This is a serious issue that requires immediate action to ensure safety, quality and compliance to the requirements of the National Building Regulations. 

Addressing non-compliance 

TIPSASA appeals to the construction industry to stop using non-compliant and/or visually “similar” products. They ask professionals to conduct a thorough review and audit of products specified and installed in their projects, to ensure no further non-compliance takes place. 

This is in accordance with Regulation A25 (5) General Enforcement, as quoted: “Any person who, having obtained approval in terms of the Act for the erection of any building, deviates to any material degree from any plan, drawing or particulars approved by the local authority shall, except where such deviation has been approved, be guilty of an offence.” 

Your immediate co-operation and attention to this matter is critical in maintaining TIPSASA’s commitment to quality and compliance in the insulation industry. 

For verification of compliance, please contact TIPSASA on 0861 000 334 or 082 305 8559. 

For more information contact TIPSASA: 

Tel: +27 861 000 334 / +27 82 305 8559 | Website: www.tipsasa.co.za