Property owners in Kuala Lumpur planning to undertake small-scale renovations will no longer need to appoint a certified planner under a new guideline by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
Before this, owners must engage a “principal submitting person” (PSP), usually a registered architect or engineer, to submit a renovation application on their behalf to DBKL.
The new guideline covered work to replace gates, upgrade perimeter drains and instal safety grilles at residential units, office buildings and commercial premises.
Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah (pic) said the change was meant to simplify the application process for permits involving small-scale work.
“Appointing a PSP incurs additional cost and time.
“Under the new rule, the property owners can apply for renovation permits themselves and start the work soon.
“The types of projects under this new guideline do not involve changes to existing structures or pose safety concerns,” he said.
Mahadi said this at an event to launch three other revised guidelines by DBKL Building Control Department at a hotel in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.
The revised guidelines were on the submission of dilapidation reports, erection of temporary hoarding around construction sites and building of workers’ hostels.
A copy of dilapidation reports must be distributed to building owners in nearby areas and contain details of the site inspection.
The report is also required to have a development order and building permit.
For construction sites, the metal hoarding must not be less than 3.6m in height with a minimum thickness of 1mm.
The surrounding pedestrian walkway must be covered, with sufficient street lighting for safety purposes.
Workers’ hostels, he said, were limited to three storeys, with 10% minimum allowance made for natural light and ventilation.
Mahadi said the guidelines were revised to ensure minimal disruption to surrounding communities during construction.
“Often times, such work takes place near an existing building, posing a nuisance in terms of noise and debris.
“The guidelines were updated after engagement with various parties such as the Fire and Rescue Department, Labour Department and Construction Industry Development Board.
“Also involved in the process were the Housing and Local Government Ministry, as well as professional bodies and urban planners,” he added.
