Lagos, the bustling metropolitan city of Nigeria, is the economic hub of West Africa and the most densely populated state in Nigeria. Considering the rapid urbanization and infrastructural development in Lagos, it is rare, but not impossible, to come across a collapsing house. At least 61 buildings collapsed across the Nigerian states in 2022, according to a report. Lagos State is top with a record of 20 incidents, out of these structural failures, representing 48.7 percent of the entire cases in 2022, according to Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) report.
A house that is on the verge of collapsing can pose a severe threat to the people living in and around it. Therefore, it is essential to identify such houses to prevent any mishap. Here are a few key things to look out for:
1. Visible signs of structural weakness or damage
A house that is about to collapse usually exhibits tell-tale signs of structural weakness. These may include cracks on the walls, floors, or ceilings, bent or uneven roofs, leaning walls, or a distinct change in the orientation of the building. Large cracks on walls that are wider at one end than the other may indicate a serious problem that needs immediate attention. Cracks within the mortar joints of brick homes could suggest a weakening foundation. Bulging or bows in walls might be a sign of a weak foundation.
2. Deterioration of the building materials
The building materials used in a house often degenerate with age. This is particularly true if the house has not been well maintained over the years. Examine the building materials and look for signs of degradation such as rust, termite infestations, rotting wood, dampness, and mold. These weaknesses may compromise the stability of the building and cause it to collapse eventually.
3. Poor maintenance of the house
Poor maintenance could be another reason for a house to collapse. Check whether areas such as the roof, walls, foundation, and electrical wiring have been looked after over the years. When faults within these areas are left unattended, it could lead to a collapse of the house.
4. Age of the building
A building that is decades old might have been constructed without adherence to modern building codes. If the building has undergone modifications, it may affect the strength of the foundational elements. It is, therefore, essential to seek the services of a structural engineer or a certified inspector if you are unsure of the building’s safety.
5. Presence of additional structures around the affected building
When other buildings are positioned around a structure that is about to collapse, they become vulnerable to imminent collapse. This is of great concern in Lagos where buildings are closely constructed, and one faulty structure could lead to multiple accidents or even deaths.
6. The general neighborhood
Some areas in Lagos might be known for having buildings on the verge of collapsing. If you see a house in such an area, it’s essential to take extra precautions and request professional assistance before venturing too close to the building.
7. Strange smells
A foul smell emanating from within the house could indicate a failure of sewage and drainage systems. This could further suggest that the entire structure is not only faulty but could also be at risk of collapsing.
8. Excessive vibrations
Strong vibrations are an obvious indication of an imminent collapse, particularly when it’s accompanied by cracking sounds from walls, ceilings, or floors. It could be due to several reasons such as unstable soil, external forces such as wind or water, or leaks in gas pipes.
The risk of collapse makes the safety of a building in Lagos an essential consideration. When you observe any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to seek professional assistance immediately. If you’re a landlord, ensure that your tenants complain about any small faults noticed in the building while also embarking on routine maintenance. It’s not just about saving lives; it’s also about safeguarding properties. Be alert, and keep your eyes peeled for any sign of an imminent collapse. The earlier you identify potential hazards, the better you can avoid catastrophic events.
