More duties for developers under amended Act

The Star 19/03/2001 By Sim Leoi Leoi

PETALING JAYA: Developers will be expected to shoulder "additional duties'' under proposed amendments to the Housing Developers (Control and Licensing) Act.

The changes will enable better enforcement to clamp down on errant developers.

It is learnt that a draft of the amendments was being studied by the A-G's chambers.

Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Ting announced in March last year that there would be a "total revamp'' of the Act to make it more balanced and comprehensive.

It is learnt that among the additional duties expected of developers are that they must: INFORM authorities on handing over of vacant possession of properties with water and electricity supply ready for connection;

BE responsible for progress on the issuance of separate or strata titles and their transfer to purchasers;

ENSURE that developments comply with all required building laws and that the certificate of fitness (CF) be hence given; and

INFORM the parties concerned if any authority does not accept documents or delays the issuance of CFs.

These duties are not spelt out in the existing Act.

It is learnt that the amendments will enable stricter control of applications for developer's licences and those facing court cases would be barred.

Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk M. Kayveas said the changes would prevent developers from becoming fly-by-night operators.