They're the families fighting for a fair go after the ceilings in their homes collapsed.
But just who is responsible for the repair bill?
Statement from Porter Davis Homes
It was brought to Porter Davis Homes attention that the ceiling of the living, kitchen and meals area collapsed on Sunday 6th January at (address withheld). An inspection was held by Porter Davis on Thursday 10th January 2013.
The following was observed during the inspection:
— Visual inspection of the area indicated that the ceiling had been glued and screwed and installed as per the manufacturers installation guide
— Client indicated the collapse started on the north western side of the living area
— Directly above this area there was noted to be a broken roof tile (Porter Davis has picture of broken tile)
— Surrounding areas also indicated there were 2-3 broken water courses to roof tiles
— Further broken roof tiles were noted above the kitchen bench and also further over toward the laundry on the southern side of the residence (Porter Davis has picture of this)
— Visual inspection of other areas failed to provide any evidence that suggested further collapses were imminent. No visible nail pop or sagging areas
— Small amounts of plaster were left in the garage for inspection but 95percent of ceiling was already removed by insurer
— Formal lounge area had tech screws into the ceiling in 4-5 spots, installed by the insurer. Unsure for what reason.
Porter Davis believes the most likely cause of collapse is water ingress to the areas where tiles are broken due to inadequate maintenance of roof cover. All building and construction work undertaken by Porter Davis meets strict quality control and this property met all relevant criteria before hand over. Porter Davis advises that home owners should undertake regular general care and maintenance of their roof and tiles, especially during heavy rain, hail and wind. Also to inspect the roofing for damage after walking on the roof or having trades people visit the home, for example, to install Foxtel or repair aerial services.
Statement from CommInsure
The customer lodged a claim with CommInsure on Sunday January 6 and we provided an emergency builder that day to make any safety repairs for the customer. CommInsure's preferred builder was then onsite to assess the property and make any further additional repairs (as required) on January 8 and following the assessment of the ceiling, the customer was advised over the phone on January 9 that their claim would be declined because the ceiling damage was a result of poor construction standards and faulty workmanship when the property was built.
CommInsure outlined the rationale to the customer and suggested the customer could seek an independent building report, after which CommInsure would reassess the decision to decline the claim should the report outline any new or differing findings.
The customer has not provided CommInsure with any detail of any independent building report or any contradictory or new information regarding the initial assessment.
CommInsure would be happy to review this claim should the requested information be provided by the customer, or we encourage the customer to contact the builder of the property.
