By BRIDGET COOK
A CASEY resident has been fined $30,000 for illegally converting a carport into a rooming house in Cranbourne.
The City of Casey took action against the resident for converted a carport into habitable rooms without obtaining a relevant building permit.
The rooming house owner was found guilty and ordered to pay a fine of $30,000 as well as additional costs to the council.
In addition to the fine, the owner was also ordered to re-instate the carport to its original condition.
City of Casey mayor Geoff Ablett said the council took a range of proactive measures to identify and pursue illegal alterations to structures within the community.
“Council believes that the health and safety of all Casey residents is paramount and will continue to play a proactive role to ensure residents are aware of their obligations to obtain the necessary building permits prior to carrying out work,” he said.
“Residents who make illegal alterations to houses and other structures in contravention of the Victorian Building Act will be held accountable.
“If you’re planning renovating, it is important to remember that most works do require a building permit to ensure compliance with the Victorian Building Act and Building Regulations.”
For more information on building obligations and requirements visit the City of Casey website www.casey.vic.gov.au/building-planning/building-advice or phone 9705 5200.
