Replacing non-compliant cladding – why compliance matters

In our experience, non-compliant cladding is an issue that no property owner can afford to overlook. It presents significant safety risks, particularly if there’s a fire, and failing to address it can result in serious breaches of Australian building codes.

What is non-compliant cladding?

Cladding is the material on the exterior of your building that protects it against the elements – and provides an aesthetically pleasing finish. Problems occur when certain materials fail to meet Australia’s stringent building codes due to their increased fire risks.

An example of non-compliant cladding in Australia is the use of Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) with a polyethylene core. These materials gained a lot of attention after being identified as a fire hazard, particularly following the Lacrosse apartment fire in Melbourne in 2014. The incident highlighted how quickly a fire could spread across buildings with non-compliant cladding, prompting stricter regulations across the country to ensure safer building practices.

Why non-compliant cladding is a critical issue

The biggest risk with non-compliant cladding is its high flammability, which poses a serious threat to life in the event of a fire. Non-compliant cladding can accelerate the spread of flames, making fire containment and evacuation efforts more difficult.

Beyond the safety risks, non-compliant cladding can affect your property’s insurance, market value, and even your ability to sell or lease it. Replacing unsafe cladding is not only recommended but often enforced by law.

What does Australian law require?

In Australia, our building codes are amongst the most stringent in the world, highlighting the importance that is placed on facade maintenance. If you fail to replace non-compliant cladding it can lead to serious legal repercussions, including fines and penalties. 

Replacing cladding is far more cost-effective than managing the consequences of non-compliance. 

How does cladding replacement work? 

At first, cladding replacement sounds like a complex task, however, with the right team it can be a seamless process. At Apex Facades, we take the following steps: 

1. Cladding audit: We conduct a thorough assessment of your building’s existing cladding to identify areas that need repair or replacement.
2. Material selection: We’ll work with you to choose certified, fire-resistant materials that comply with Australian regulations, enhancing both the safety and aesthetics of your building.
3. Planning and approval: Our team manages all the necessary approvals and paperwork to ensure the project proceeds smoothly.
4. Cladding replacement: Our experienced team carries out the replacement with minimal disruption to your daily operations.
5. Final inspection and certification: Once the installation is complete, we perform a final inspection and provide certification, confirming your building’s compliance.

Why choose Apex Facades for non-compliant cladding replacement?

Here’s why Apex Facades is the perfect partner for your cladding replacement:

• Proven expertise: We have successfully handled a wide range of cladding replacement projects.
• Quality materials: We use only certified, fire-resistant materials that meet the highest safety standards.
• High-rise facade access: We have specialised rope access teams skilled in working on high-rise buildings, allowing us to safely and efficiently replace cladding on even the most challenging structures. This minimises disruption and ensures that no matter the height or complexity, your building will be brought up to code.
• Tailored solutions: Every building is unique, and we customise our approach to meet your specific requirements, ensuring both compliance and aesthetic appeal.
• Comprehensive support: From the initial audit to the final certification, we manage every step, offering you a stress-free experience.

Ensure safety and compliance with Apex Facades

Replacing non-compliant cladding is more than just a regulatory requirement, it’s a matter of safety. At Apex Facades, we’ll ensure your building is compliant, safe, and enhance its appearance in the process. 

If you’re unsure about the cladding on your building, contact Apex Facades today. We’ll assess your situation and guide you through the process, ensuring your building is protected, compliant, and ready for the future.