The causes of building defects in Apowa in the Ahanta west district of Ghana

Abstract

The built environment in any country determines the nature and pace of national development and the citizens’ “quality of life”. The aim of this study is to find out the causes of building defects in Apowa in the Ahanta West district of Ghana. The researcher went through journals, books and paper presentations of scholars in the field of study as well as the internet in the form of literature review. An observation of the study area was done for a period to justify the need for the study. Questionnaires were administered and interviews were conducted to landlords of the area and other people engaged in the building industry in the district to get facts and to seek their opinion on the subject. Samples of blocks, soil and sand were taken to the Takoradi Polytechnic Laboratory for testing to ascertain the quality of materials used for the building projects in the area. The study found out that, most clients do not go through the due process in putting up their building structures and the appropriate authorities are not able to punish the culprits. Soil is not tested to ascertain its bearing capacity in to design the appropriate foundation. Most sand for blocks and mortar often contain excessive silt. The water table of the area is high; however, the necessary damp proof materials are not used in the buildings. Blocks used for buildings in the area are substandard. It is recommended that the District, Municipal and Metropolitan Assemblies should enforce the law that regulates the putting up of building structures. Clients should: seek professional advice before putting up the building structure; employ competent personnel to build their houses; use quality materials for their building projects.