By Karen Bong
KUCHING: Kuching South City Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng has issued a stern warning to commercial property owners over the dangers of unauthorised alterations or extensions carried out by tenants, stressing that such acts could not only attract legal action but may also result in insurance claims being denied in the event of damage or collapse.
“These are issues we always talk about. We have begun sending letters and inspecting premises, and in some cases, we will dismantle illegal structures.
“Illegal extensions, especially on older buildings, can compromise structural integrity. If anything happens, including accidents or building collapse, insurance companies have the right to refuse payout,” he shared during his weekly ShallWeeTalk session online today.
He emphasised that property owners remain legally responsible for unauthorised works carried out by tenants, as rental agreements clearly prohibit extensions without approval.
“Your property may worth millions or generates significant rental income but bear in mind that a tenant carrying out illegal extensions can severely affect the value of your insurance claim and prolong rebuilding in the event of incident, which could lead to loss of rental income,” he added.
Wee urged owners to regularly inspect their properties and ensure tenants comply strictly with rental agreements prohibiting illegal alterations.
“You must protect yourself and your property. Tenants should not make extensions or modifications without permission. When the Council takes legal action, it is the building owner who is accountable, not the tenant,” he said.
The mayor also pointed out that MBKS is reviewing ways to restructure its monitoring and enforcement of illegal extensions, particularly in commercial areas, to safeguard public safety and prevent future liabilities. — DayakDaily
