Hanoi’s authorities have decided to inspect all old buildings in the city after a 110-year-old house collapsed, leaving two people dead.
A two-storey old house at 107 Tran Hung Dao Street dramatically collapsed on Tuesday
Deputy minister of Construction, Le Quang Hung, said building owners had to carry out regular maintenance and would take all responsibility if anything happens to their buildings. The local authorities can also inspect buildings that have deteriorated and pose a danger to public.
Hung said, "the local authorities have approved plans to inspect all of the city’s old villas and houses."
Hanoi has about 1,600 old villas and houses dating back from 60 to over 100 years. The list includes 562 residential properties and 1,100 government-owned buildings.
Most of the buildings were constructed during the French colonial period and are highly-regarded for their architectural value so owners are banned from making changes. These buildings often have several households living together despite the cramped space, poor sanitation and have suffered substantial deterioration.
Two people were killed and six others injured when a two-storey old house at 107 Tran Hung Dao Street suddenly collapsed on September 22. According to the People's Committee of Hoan Kiem District, the building was built in 1905 was now used as an office of the Vietnam Railways Administration. Hanoi Police Colonel Nguyen Van Quyen said that the 110-year-old building collapsed due to weak walls which were badly damaged in recent heavy rains.
Hoan Kiem District authorities evacuated 16 nearby households following the collapse, while the local authorities continue to investigate the case.