SA Affordable Housing January - February 2016 | Issue: 56 by Trademax Publications

January - February 2016 // Issue: 56

COMMUNITIES | INFRASTRUCTURE | DEVELOPMENT R216 per annum incl.

BUILDING A

NEW HOME?

MAKE SURE YOU USE A NHBRC REGISTERED BUILDER FOR PEACE OF MIND. Building a new home is one of life’s most exciting milestones. But few things can ruin the occasion like defects that show up long after you’ve parted with your money. It doesn’t have to be this way. Work that is faulty and incomplete due to shoddy workmanship can be avoided if you stick with an accredited builder. The NHBRC was established by law to protect you, the housing consumer. Make sure you use a NHBRC registered builder and that your home is enrolled with us so that we can protect you.

Fraud Hotline: 0800 203 698

www.nhbrc.org.za @NHBRC

NHBRCSA

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

ISSUE: 56

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Trademax Publications SA Affordable Housing Communities | Infrastructure | Development

Tel: 0861 727 663 Fax: 0866 991 346 Email: info@trademax.co.za www.trademax.co.za

CONTENTS

Postnet Suite 241 Private Bag X103 N1 City 7463

PUBLISHER: Billy Perrin

billy@trademax.co.za

EDITOR'S COMMENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

PROPERTY OUTLOOK 2016

EDITOR:

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

editor@trademax.co.za

082 266 6976

Celéste Perrin

CMA AWARDS

HEALTH & SAFETY

REGULATED READYMIX

kylin@trademax.co.za

QS NEWS

LAYOUT & DESIGN:

DOORS

INTEGRATED AFFORDABLE HOUSING

EC HOUSING

BUILDING STANDARDS

SQUATTERS’ RIGHTS

INTEGRATED HOUSING

RENTAL HOUSING

INDUSTRY NEWS

PRECAST PRODUCTS

MINING ACCOMMODATION

INDUSTRY NEWS

ADVERTISING SALES: Kylin Perrin

Craig Patterson craig@trademax.co.za

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Belinda Thwesha belinda@trademax.co.za

DISCLAIMER The views expressed herein are not necessarily those of Trademax Publications. Although we have done our best to ensure the accuracy of our content, neither Trademax Publications nor SA Affordable Housing magazine will be held liable for any views expressed or information disseminated, in editorial content or advertisements, in this issue.

EDITOR’S COMMENTS

Welcome,

and make yourself at home... Welcome to the January/February 2016 issue of SA Affordable Housing magazine! After a wonderful holiday break we are pleased to bring you this first edition of 2016 - a year that may have eased its way in, but is promising to hold a lot in store.

ooking at all the industry conferences and expos already firmly embedded on the 2016 calendar, with even more events still being formalized, it’s bound to be a busy year for the affordable housing industry and allied sectors. There’s a lot to be said! We’ve listed some of the most pertinent events on page 4 (there’s more on our website), and look forward to seeing you there. Let us know of any other important happenings that fellow industry partners should know about, and we‘ll spread the word. What I’m getting from all these planned activities, not to mention feedback from readers and advertisers, is that, despite our challenges, we are a resilient nation and a committed industry. We share the belief that all South Africans must be able to access a path towards home ownership, and that our homes should be of a standard reflective of the dignity, safety and health of the citizenship of this country. What we find interesting and love to cover, are the sometimes aligned, but sometimes differing, opinions on the best way to get us onto that path. We thank you for your continued contributions to and support of SA Affordable Housing. It’s true that predictions for our country’s economic growth, manufacturing output, employment rate, education, currency, housing and infrastructure development, etc. are less than optimistic. This will undoubtedly impact what we do. But without a solid infrastructure, stable energy supply and other factors, realistic development and growth in any context is almost impossible. So, let’s not get embroiled in some of the unpleasantries making headline news lately. Let’s remain focused on what we are good at, namely delivering affordable housing. Government has announced new legislation that enables harsher criminal punishment for the destruction of essential infrastructure. And in April 2016, new infrastructure standards and regulations will be implemented to better manage the country’s procurement and expenditure processes. If nothing else, these make for a great start towards inviting more collaboration from other players.

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Other areas of industry also present opportunity for closer cooperation and partnerships, such as the select use of regulated building materials. The gauntlet has been thrown down for the private sector to augment the fiscal capabilities of government and to help create better models to fund opportunities in infrastructure and housing projects in our country. So, do what you are good at, and take up this challenge. Then perhaps we can set an attractive landscape for housing delivery that is sustainable in the long term, measurable, and beneficial to our citizens. Because how can there be housing without schools, without clinics, without running water, without power, without roads. And how can there be housing without you. Here’s to you, in 2016. Celéste I welcome your questions and feedback, so feel free to mail me at editor@trademax.co.za.

EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS HOUSING FOR AFRICA CONFERENCE & EXPO 9 MAY 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JHB View www.housingforafrica.com for more info Housing for Africa Conference and Expo is a forum focusing on the planning and development of sustainable housing infrastructure in Africa. With the continent now experiencing the world’s fastest economic growth and highest urbanization rate, this forum highlights the latest technologies, thinking, approaches and strategies.

TOTALLY CONCRETE EXPO

9 – 11 MAY 2016, GALLAGHER CONVENTION CENTRE, MIDRAND, JHB Visit www.totallyconcrete.co.za and www.construction-week.com for more info Totally Concrete Conference and Expo is the African educational and networking platform for insights into the latest developments and technologies associated with the concrete and construction industry. The event is designed to address challenges, demands and opportunities, including driving green initiatives and the entry of cement manufacturers into the marketplace.

CAPE CONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE & TRADE EXPO 11 – 12 AUGUST 2016, CTICC, CAPE TOWN

Visit www.cape-construction.co.za for more info Cape Construction Expo is the only B2B event focusing exclusively on building and construction in the Western Cape. The forum brings together construction professionals, suppliers, government representatives and investors, offering plenty of networking opportunities for the entire value chain. The conference offers insight into high-level Western Cape-centric topics. An interactive exhibition with the latest products, tools and technologies encourages a change towards more efficient and sustainable building. A strategic and technical workshop programme offers training and educational content.

INTERBUILD AFRICA 2016

(CO-LOCATED SHOWS: GLASS EXPO AFRICA, PLUMBDRAIN AFRICA, ECOAFRIBUILD AND HARDEX AFRICA) 17 – 20 AUGUST 2016, EXPO CENTRE NASREC, JHB Visit www.interbuild.co.za for more info

NEW! WOOD WORLD SOUTH AFRICA (RUNNING ALONGSIDE INTERBUILD AFRICA 2016) Visit www.woodworldsa.co.za for more info

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SCHOOL OF CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY COURSES IN 2016 SCT20 CONCRETE PRACTICE COURSE

Midrand:

29 February – 2 March 2016 23 - 26 May 2016 25 – 28 July 2016 26 – 29 September 2016 30 November – 1 December 2016

Durban:

7 – 10 June 2016 6 – 9 September 2016

Cape Town:

12 – 15 April 2016 11 – 14 October 2016

SCT30 CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY COURSE Midrand:

4 – 8 April 2016 20 – 24 June 2016 7 – 11 November 2016

Durban:

24 – 28 October 2016

Cape Town:

21 – 25 October 2016

For more information, call Rennisha Sewnarain on (011) 315 0300 or send an email to rennishas@theconcreteinstitute.org.za.

9 May 2016 | Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa Driving housing Development anD reDucing construction costs During africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s infrastructural awakening

What to expect?

4 years connecting construction professionals, suppliers and service providers

39 countries represented 60+ world renowned speakers delivering insightful case studies

64% of delegates are buyers, users and

specifiers of construction products

30+ hours of dedicated networking 180+ exhibitors register now!

register now for access to new technologies anD alternative builDing systems to reDuce housing construction costs by up to 30%. tafazdwa.shayawabaya@hypenica.com +27 21 700 4300

www.construction-week.com | www.housingforafrica.com

PROPERTY OUTLOOK 2016

Photo credit - American Advisors Group www.aag.com

Property in 2016: The road ahead During 2015 the South African residential property market continued to see improvement, with consumers still placing a high value on home ownership despite increases in electricity tariffs and interest rates. While many prospective buyers struggled to meet deposit requirements during 2015, those with access to finance were ready to embark on their journey towards home ownership and get into the market as soon as possible.

o says Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa. He further predicts that access to finance will continue to be tough for consumers in the New Year. “The effects of the recent interest rate hike will be felt by consumers over the festive season and will impact the property market moving into 2016. The Reserve Bank has been warning consumers that we are currently in a rising interest rate cycle, and will be for some time. It is highly

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likely that we will see further rate hikes during 2016, which will continue to put financial pressure on consumers. Rate hikes will influence affordability ratios and make it more difficult for prospective buyers to gain access to finance,” states Goslett. “While the residential property market has shown improvement, consumers who are looking to purchase property in 2016 will need to start preparing themselves now by focusing on building savings and reducing their debt-to-income ratios as much as possible.”

PROPERTY OUTLOOK 2016

He notes that while most areas are performing well in terms of house price growth and sales volumes, markets in and around metropolitan areas are slightly more accelerated than their non-metropolitan counterparts. “Another trend that we are seeing is that homes are generally spending far less time on the market than they did post-recession. Properties in good locations are selling within two weeks on average, whereas these same properties would have sat on the market for months before selling during 2010. This trend is expected to carry over into 2016 with stock shortages still a reality in some areas,” continues Goslett. He adds that other factors that will have an influence on the residential market will include potential hikes in the fuel levy, along with personal tax. According to Goslett, those who are unable to meet the necessary affordability ratios will be forced to stay within the rental market a while longer. “The rental market has seen good growth during the past year, with demand also outstripping supply, particularly in areas around CBDs. Access to finance will have a major impact on the demand for rental properties, especially those that are well placed close to business hubs and a wide range of amenities,” he advises. “Buy-to-let investors should aim to grow their property portfolio to benefit as much as possible from the growing rental demand.”

In 2016 we will continue to see excellent growth within the affordable housing sector, as well as continued demand for homes within gated communities that offer security. “Security in South Africa is and will continue to be a major factor that influences buying decisions, one of the many reasons why gated communities and estates will remain a popular choice among home buyers. Homes with lower maintenance requirements will also continue to be popular, mainly due to increased utility and municipal costs that are placing additional pressure on consumers’ pockets,” says Goslett. He adds that while there are a number of factors that could influence the property market and its performance in the year ahead, the residential market continues to hold its own, despite challenging economic conditions. “Over the long term, property has proven to be a solidly performing asset and should be a core component of any investment portfolio. The crux is for buyers and sellers to understand the market conditions in which they are trading and to tailor their buying and selling decisions and behaviour accordingly,” Goslett concludes.

low voltage

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to help unemployed youth find sustainable jobs.

STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

Student accommodation creating opportunity in a crisis

Recent data from International Labour Organisation (ILO) revealed that 52% of South Africans aged between 15 and 24 are neither at school nor at work. As a result, 61.3% of all South Africans living in poverty are under the age of 25. One of the main causes of the above scenario is the lack of skills.

Completed Ubuntu House at Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg Campus.

his is where STAG African, a construction, development and renewable energy company, comes in. Over the next 10 years the student accommodation group, in partnership with the private and public sectors, plans to create 67,000 jobs to help address the shortfall of 600,000 student beds at universities across the country. “Not enough is being done at the moment to promote internal development through green skills and green jobs. We are committed to creating unique skills in the use of new technology in the green building sector – with the end goal being on creating a fully sustainable green economy,” says John Schooling, MD and founder of STAG African.

STAG African trainees.

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STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

"Our job as universities is the empowerment of the next generation of leaders for the South African economy, society and governance through academic study, leading to concrete, sought-after qualifications... the appointment of the Presidential Commission of Inquiry gives all of us academics, students, administrators, support staff and parents - the framework within which we can seek concrete solutions that are both workable in practice and acceptable to all." - Professor Ihron Rensburg, Vice Chancellor of the University of Johannesburg and spokesperson for the Gauteng Vice Chancellors.

Green building - example.

JOB CREATION “Our job creation programme will go a long way in addressing high unemployment rates and upskilling young job seekers with sustainable skills,” says Schooling. “Using lightweight steel and Innovative Building John Schooling, MD of STAG African. Technology, green building skills are much easier to learn and teach than conventional building. Apart from that, it is a new and very relevant skill in the South African context, for which there is high demand locally,” he continues.

numbers have increased significantly since 1993 – from just under 500,000 to an anticipated number of more than one million plus when the academic year kicks off in February. This poses a problem for universities as the cost of student accommodation is very expensive. By using green building practices, STAG African is able to reduce building time by 40%. Because of this significant reduction in building time, the costs associated with the build are therefore also reduced dramatically. At universities, where cost ultimately is the deciding factor, sustainable, environmentally friendly building is an obvious economic choice.

WIN-WIN OUTCOME “Our aim is to create working classroom environments for TVET* college students. We’ll even create the curriculum and employ the students while they are being upskilled with a unique and sustainable skills set,” explains Schooling.

“The growth in demand for tertiary education, globally, has outstripped the capacity of the institutions to cope. Twenty years ago, 80% of the global student population was accommodated in residences. Today, with the dramatic increase of learners heading to university, this figure has dropped to less than 20%.”

“We can work up someone who is unskilled to highly skilled in two years. This is good for us, it’s good for them, and also for those who rely on them financially (one labourer on average supports seven to eight dependents). It’s good for the colleges and universities, and it relieves a huge burden from the State,” Schooling concludes.

REDUCING THE COST OF STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

*TVET colleges: Technical Vocational Education and Training Colleges, previously referred to and known as FET (Further Education and Training) Colleges.

A boom in higher education has resulted in a major shortfall of student accommodation. According to figures released by the Department of Higher Education, student

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For more information, visit the STAG African website at www.stagprop.com.

A name truly cast in concrete

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HOLLOW-CORE CONCRETE FLOORING ECHO PRESTRESS (Pty) Ltd. (Prestressed Hollow-Core Floors) Private Bag 1, Edleen 1625 Email: echo@echo.co.za

Tel: 011 589 8800 www.echo.co.za

Fax: 011 589 8955

ECHO PRESTRESS DURBAN (Pty) Ltd. (Prestressed Hollow-Core Floors) P.O. Box 40726, Red Hill, 4071 Email: echokzn@echo.co.za

Tel: 031 569 6950 www.echo.co.za

Fax: 031 569 6974

ECHO FLOORS (Pty) Ltd. (Reinforced Hollow-Core Floors) P O Box 706, Muldersdrift, 1747 Email: floors@echofloors.co.za

Tel: 011 662 4600 / 083 602 0966 www.echo.co.za

Fax: 086 667 2037

TOPFLOOR (Prestressed Hollow-Core Floors) P O Box 124, Sanlamhof, 7532 Email: info@topfloor.co.za

Tel: 021 951 7700 www.topfloor.co.za

Fax: 021 951 7790

CMA AWARDS

CMA Awards for Excellence entries see substantial increase The 2016 Concrete Manufacturers Association NPC, (CMA) Awards for Excellence competition has drawn a bumper crop of entries, which at 123 is almost double the 77 submissions entered during the last competition.

mages and entry details of the competition’s six categories can be found in the Awards entry book which has been published electronically on the CMA’s website www.cma.org.za. The book provides a valuable reference document on some of the country’s most prestigious construction projects using precast concrete. Chairperson of the Awards committee, Monique Eggebeen, said the standard of this year’s submissions was high and in some cases extremely so. “It is quite clear from this year’s entry submissions that the use of precast concrete is growing rapidly across diverse applications, offering ease of installation as well as high standards of finish and durability.”

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CMA AWARDS

Cedar Lofts, built with reinforced hollow-core slabs supplied by Echo Floors. “First staged in 1985, the Awards have since become the undoubted highlight of the precast concrete industry’s calendar. They provide an excellent vehicle for southern African designers and project developers to establish themselves as trendsetters across several disciplines, and in doing so, to gain national recognition. The CMA is justifiably proud of the superior attributes of precast concrete which, once again, are evident in this year’s competition – attributes which are certainly on a par with those of our global compatriots.”

CATEGORIES “This year’s entry categories comprised the following: Aesthetics Commercial; Aesthetics Residential; Community Upliftment; Technical Excellence; Innovation and, for projects older than 10 years, Precast for Life,” explained Eggebeen. As anticipated, Aesthetics Commercial attracted by far the most entries, reeling in an impressive 50 projects. Submission numbers in the other categories were as follows: Aesthetics Residential - 12; Community Upliftment - 9; Technical Excellence - 26; Innovation - 15; and 10 entries in the Precast for Life category. Some entries were entered for two or more categories, which means that one project could win more than one award. Entries closed on 16 October 2015 and the judging took place on 23 November at the Johannesburg offices of PPC Cement, the main sponsor of this year’s event. The five judges, all leading professionals in the field of construction, were: landscape architect, Antoinette de Beer; architect, Hugh Fraser; civil engineer, Malcolm Pautz; civil engineer, Abe Thela; and quantity surveyor, Bert van der Heever. A possible six trophies, one for each category, and up to three commendation awards can be made in each category, providing the judges consider the entries to be worthy of an award.

The results of the competition will be announced at a gala dinner ceremony at Summer Place in Johannesburg on 23 April 2016. Eggebeen concluded by saying that the CMA is extremely grateful to this year’s sponsors, without whom the awards could not have taken place. They are PPC (main sponsor), AfriSam, BASF, Chryso, and Lafarge.

AWARDS CATEGORY: AESTHETICS RESIDENTIAL PROJECT: CEDAR LOFTS Cedar Lofts is an example of the progress made in the modern design of high-density housing – a reminder that a denser living environment can be highly rewarding in the wetlands. These beautiful apartment blocks were designed with a playful geometry of pitched roofs, eye-catching lofts and roof terraces that command stunning views. Add to this colour-coded balconies, trees, paddock fencing and grassed verges, and the overall effect is visually striking. The floors, balconies and roof terraces were constructed with reinforced hollow-core slabs supplied by Echo Floors in various lengths. The slabs’ smooth soffits allowed apartment ceilings to be painted without plastering, which saved time and money.

PROFESSIONAL TEAM ARCHITECT: Mark Spence of Ambient Architects ENGINEER: Paul Carlisle of Carlisle and Associates QUANTITY SURVEYOR: Summercon Property Development

MAIN CONTRACTOR:

Summercon Property Development

MANUFACTURER OF PRECAST CONCRETE ELEMENTS: Echo Floors (Pty) Ltd

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Make 2016 the year for Safety with ‘Safetember’ The most recent safety statistics from the Federated Mutual Assurance Company (FEM) revealed a shocking surge in motor vehicle accident (MVA) fatalities in the construction sector: The latest number accounts for an appalling 48% of the total fatalities for the sector.

Photo credit: Joe Strupek

pon release of these figures last year, FEM MD Thelma Pugh stated the statistics had come as a shock for the construction industry as a whole. Expressing dismay and further underscoring the very serious nature of the problem, she added, “Most, if not all, of these so-called 'accidents' are avoidable.” “In view of the staggering nature of these figures, FEM and their partners have initiated an awareness programme designed to encourage organizations to enhance their drivers’ skills and to create a culture of road safety to ensure that their workers, and all those who drive vehicles, remain safe on our roads,” continued Pugh. Since then, a team comprising top management from FEM, health and safety specialists from the South African Forum of Civil Engineering Contractors as well as the Master Builders Association, have been working in close collaboration on the development of this programme. “It is the combined intention, through this programme, to encourage organizations to take construction health and safety awareness – with particular emphasis on defensive driver training – to a new level and to keep it there, thereby significantly reducing these events over the next 24 months, if not sooner,” said Pugh.

result of workers being transported, often to and from the construction or work site, on open trucks or bakkies – which then become involved in accidents. Additional driver-related aspects addressed through the programme include substance abuse, sharing of information, subcontractor safety, driving habits and advisories, and elimination of cellular phone usage when driving – texting in particular. The intent is for the programme, dubbed “Safetember,” to be communicated across a wide range of media, functions and events, and it will hinge around encouraging organizations to use driver training and awareness. Captains of the industry and exemplary companies will also be invited to publicly pledge their support and commitment to the programme. The full scope of Safetember was shared at the Master Builders SA Congress in September 2015, and an open invitation exists for all industry players to submit meaningful suggestions that can enhance the programme and lead to increased safety measures being taken. Send your email to Isobel Devane with the FEM development team at: IsobelDe@fema.co.za. For more information, visit www.fema.co.za.

It is generally acknowledged by those active in the construction sector that many MVA fatalities occur as a JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

REGULATED READYMIX

Build infrastructure right the first time To avoid costly rebuilds of sub-standard housing and infrastructural projects, government should take all measures to ensure specifiers and engineers insist on quality assured building products sourced from suppliers that belong to regulated and accredited industry organizations.

his is according to Johan van Wyk, general manager of the Southern African Readymix Association (SARMA). He says government’s repair bill for poorly built low-cost houses alone peaked at R50-billion recently and that poorly constructed infrastructural projects similarly account for substantial losses. As a result, the time has come for government and private contractors to put a premium on quality and to procure materials only from those organizations that can display credentials in keeping with the overall requirements to produce quality structures. An effective way of doing this is to insist that service providers and material suppliers be registered with credible industry associations that regulate members and carry out quality audits.

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In this way, all government departments – from municipalities to provincial and national government – can be assured that requirements are being met in terms of quality and sustainability.

MANAGING INPUTS “SARMA members, for example, are compelled to adhere to a number of key criteria governing the manufacturing of concrete to ensure customers get what they pay for. SARMA also proactively seeks ways of ensuring the highest quality products are delivered by its members on a consistent basis. A good example is the Association’s world-class quality management system (QMS) that was developed specifically for the readymix industry.”

REGULATED READYMIX

Quality readymix delivered fresh on site.

“The QMS sets certain minimum standards for the manufacture of readymix concrete – from supplier management to policies and procedures and also final delivery of the mixed product. Verification is required along the way and accountability is assigned at each step in the process. Annual audits are also undertaken to ensure SARMA members adhere to the Association’s set codes of conduct. “It is understandable that officials and procurement officers within organizations may not always be aware of the intricacies involved in manufacturing certain goods. Readymix concrete, like many other products, needs to be made according to a careful recipe, and by cutting costs or substituting certain ingredients with inferior products, the end result can turn out to be a complete failure,” says van Wyk.

BAD RECIPE While wet concrete might look the same and be delivered in the right consistency, it may have completely different end characteristics that are completely unsuitable for the purpose it was meant for. If corners are cut to save costs and win a tender, it is the end user that pays the price for poor quality. Fly-by-night operators most commonly substitute quality cement with an inferior product, add excessive extenders, use low-quality, illegally obtained sand and aggregates, or add too much water to the mix to make it easily pourable. “When one considers that concrete is the single most important ingredient for foundations, columns, walls and roads, etc., as well as the mortar and plaster that holds houses together, it is clear to see the value in using SARMA members. Get the recipe wrong and it’s a recipe for disaster,” concludes van Wyk. For more information, visit www.sarma.co.za.

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QS NEWS

ASAQS issues latest building standard system The Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) has launched the 7th edition of its Standard System of Measuring Building Work. This is a valuable reference source - particularly for tender documents - for both the quantity surveying as well as building professions.

he latest edition of what many in the construction sector call 'The QS Bible,’ contains rules about how the labour and materials required to erect a structure should be reflected and clearly defined in Bills of Quantities. Contractors base their tenders and quotations on such Bills of Quantities, so the Standard System is highly regarded as an indispensable tool in the industry. Dr Corné de Leeuw, former president of ASAQS and for decades the driving force in the delivery of standardized ASAQS documentation, has commented that the latest Standard System was a milestone event for the entire African continent, as it would soon be followed by the publication of the ‘Standard Method of Measuring Dr Corné de Leeuw, former ASAQS president, received special framed recognition of Building Work in Africa,’ a very similar his “visionary leadership" from ASAQS president, Bert van den Heever (left), at the source of reference but to be launch of the seventh edition of probably the building sector's most important published and distributed by the Africa source of reference. On right is Larry Feinberg, executive director of ASAQS. Association of Quantity Surveyors (AAQS). "Although many countries in Africa have their own standard systems, they will now, used at universities and technikons) was continued in the when using ASAQS' latest Standard System, for the first latest edition, which is now also more suitable for IT time be able to employ Model Bill of Quantities with items applications. aligned to their own standard systems. This standardization will make it easier for quantity surveyors In August 2013, ASAQS appointed a committee to produce to relocate and work within various countries in Africa, a seventh Standard System of Measuring Building Work, and will also simplify the operations of SA-based incorporating updated and additional information as well international contractors when working in other parts of as revisions where required. In association with Master Africa," he explained. Builders South Africa (MBSA), a draft was prepared. The move towards tabulation and a more simplified and user-friendly format initiated in the last revision of the sixth edition of the Standard System (which is also widely

Comments and input were invited from various quantity surveying practices and associations prior to the publication of this seventh edition. For more information, visit www.asaqs.co.za.

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DOORS

Contractors gain the edge when keeping with the trend The demands of the contractor’s client have changed dramatically over the past few years, and it has become more important than ever to deliver products of both quality and style that satisfy clients’ needs. FinDoor understands this, and offers contractors a solution to give them an undeniable competitive edge.

ith exposure to content online and an increasingly keen interest in lifestyle trends, clients nowadays are driven by a desire to have their homes reflect and match their evolving tastes – as influenced by the latest fashions and styles. FinDoor has a proud tradition of providing the trade with an attractive product that satisfies these demands, offering an extensive range of quality moulded door skins with trendy designs and finishes.

What’s more, FinDoor carefully curates each of its skins according to colour, pattern, and design – presenting distinctive styles that complete the décor and layout of any room. FinDoor makes a home look great, but as a contractor, it makes you look even better. For more information on the complete catalogue range of skins available, visit www.findoors.co.za.

FinDoor skins are expertly applied to Masonite and medium-density fibreboards by preferred manufacturers, and they require little to no maintenance.

OPEN TO COLOUR, OPEN TO FINISH, OPEN TO CHOICE

2 Panel White

4 Panel White

6 Panel White

6 Panel Townhouse

As the leading finishing specialist in Africa, FinDoor understands that consumers want stylish quality products at affordable prices. That’s why we create moulded hollow core doors available in a wide range of assorted colours, patterns and designs.

100% maintenance free No Varnish required No sealers No paint

2 Panel Black

Mahogany D/Curve

D/Curve

Chamonix Oak D/Curve

not all doors have to be made the same...

Available in: • Masonite and medium density fibreboard • Standard door sizes 2032mm x 813mm x38mm

If you’d like to know more about FinDoor and how you can benefit from its use as a manufacturer, contact us: Preedip 072 424 7869 | Fahiem 082 786 9021 | Office 039 684 1188 | info@findoors.co.za

INTEGRATED AFFORDABLE HOUSING

From left to right: PR Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Mayco Member Councillor Benedicta van Minnen, beneficiary Ms Daphne Deaney, and Ward Councillor Shaun August.

Beneficiaries receive title deeds to Pelican Park Since the acclaimed Pelican Park housing development was last featured in SA Affordable Housing, the success story of this unique and remarkable community has come full circle with the handover of title deeds to worthy residents.

n an official ceremony on 20 November 2015, the City of Cape Town’s Human Settlements Directorate presented 20 beneficiaries with title deeds to their new homes at the Pelican Park housing development. The title deeds were part of a batch of approximately 60 that the City of Cape Town had already started issuing to residents, including pensioners. Close to 1,900 families had already received their subsidized homes at that time, and these units were part of the final construction phase of this very successful integrated housing development that went on to achieve completion in December 2015 with approximately 150 of the last Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses built. “It was very encouraging to see the great progress made with the construction of the final phase of the Pelican Park housing development. The City, with the support of our partners, is making every effort to enable redress through increased delivery of housing opportunities to our

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vulnerable residents,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Benedicta van Minnen. She added that the beneficiaries and their families would now be able to enjoy the improved living conditions of their own homes. “This project empowers beneficiaries, providing previously disadvantaged residents with the opportunity to own an asset which can, among others, unlock economic benefits. Going forward, the City will continue to look at new ways to ensure large-scale delivery of housing opportunities so that more beneficiaries can have access to housing opportunities,’ Councillor van Minnen added. The final handover of subsidized units took place on 15 December 2015 in Seedsnipe Road and Pota Court within the community and brought the total number of units handed over to beneficiaries to 2,024.

INTEGRATED AFFORDABLE HOUSING

The Pelican Park project is integrated across the full spectrum of affordability. According to the City of Cape Town’s latest statement, the development is highlighted by 2,024 totally subsidized homes (BNG) built alongside 760 starter homes (Gap Housing) selling for R375 500, and a further 360 higher-value homes (bonded) valued from R497,500 to R700,000. The total cost of this development is approximately R700-million, which includes State funding and private investment. The Pelican Park development, which was accorded Gold Star status in the Mayor’s Portfolio for Sustainable Development, incorporates provision for two new schools and a regional clinic to be developed respectively by the

Western Cape Government Department of Education and City Health, as well as two properties zoned as places of worship. A commercial precinct was also opened in November 2014 in an effort to enable economic opportunities for residents. There are generous open spaces within the development itself and safe courtyards encircled by houses. The development also fronts onto the False Bay Ecology Park, which can be accessed during daylight hours and provides pleasant opportunities for bird watching and picnicking while overlooking the Zeekoevlei. The developer of this acclaimed project is the Power Group.

What is your need? For more than thirty years, we have constructed more than thirty seven thousand houses. We provided full turnkey solutions from green fields to fully efficient integrated developments. We’ve built shopping centres, community centres, offices that house established and start-up businesses; and built and expanded factories and warehouses to create more jobs. We’ve constructed bridges, roads and structures so that farmers and industrialists can serve their markets. We supplied the infrastructure for seven wind farms to support the country’s efforts to use renewable sources of energy. Discover what we can do at www.powergrp.co.za or contact us on +27 (0)21 907 1300 or general@powergrp.co.za. We’re always open for business.

EC HOUSING

Thousands in Eastern Cape to get title deeds by March The Eastern Cape Department of Human Settlements says it will hand over 7,000 title deeds to rightful beneficiaries of government’s low-cost subsidy programme by March 2016.

he Department has confirmed that it is prioritizing the issuance of title deeds so that beneficiaries can legally own their properties – particularly previously disadvantaged families who were deprived the right of home ownership by the apartheid regime. In 2014, Human Settlements MEC Helen Sauls-August gave title deeds to beneficiaries in Indwe and Barkley East. The roll-out of the issuing of title deeds will continue before the financial year ends in March 2016. “This financial year, the issuing of title deeds was lifted as a priority in the Policy and Budget Vote Speech (2015/2016). Between April and September last year, 2,488 title deeds were issued to beneficiaries across the province from a target of 7,000.” “The Title Deeds Programme is, however, delayed by other factors such as illegal occupation of completed houses by other people or unclaimed houses by beneficiaries,” noted a statement by the Department. Before title deeds are issued to beneficiaries, the Department has to conduct a verification process to ensure the title deeds will be given to the correct beneficiaries. With a title deed, unscrupulous individuals can also be prevented from selling government subsidies, thus robbing people of their homes. Many beneficiaries have lost their homes due to the unavailability of a title deed that confirms their home ownership. MEC Sauls-August has asked beneficiaries to be patient as the process of handing over title deeds continues. “We appeal to the beneficiaries to exercise patience, as the Department needs to verify and ensure that the rightful beneficiaries (approved on the housing subsidy system) are the actual occupants of the houses, to safeguard affirming home ownership to an incorrect beneficiary. Correct beneficiaries will receive their title deeds from government,” she said. Source credit: SAnews.gov.za

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

Photo credits- GovernmentZA.

BUILDING STANDARDS

Inspection halts shoddy construction in Eastern Cape Following a recent site inspection, the Eastern Cape Human Settlements Department has ordered a contractor to demolish and rebuild 89 sub-standard houses in two villages.

he houses were found to be non-compliant with South Africa’s building regulations. The shoddy workmanship was discovered by inspectors from the Department and the National Home Builders’ Registration Council (NHBRC) during an inspection of sites at Mqangqweni and Lujizweni in Ngqeleni late last year. The Department said the contractor had already started casting slabs, but upon inspecting platforms and the slabs that were casted, it was discovered that they were not done in accordance with the required Department and NHBRC standards.

PROBLEMS WITH SLABS, WALLS, WINDOWS AND DOORS “Prior to the certification of the slabs, the contractor had proceeded to construct walls, which were also substandard. In some houses, there was no brick force used on the designated courses of the wall as it progresses up. In the houses where brick force was used, it was of inferior quality (rusting) and less than the required diameter of 2.8mm,” said Human Settlements MEC Helen SaulsAugust. “The types of windows and door frames used were not SABS approved, and this was compromising the bearing load above the windows and doors level. The window frames used required that the contractor use lintels above window openings to endure the load of the roof, but the lintels were already bending before the roof was put up,” MEC Sauls-August continued.

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She said there was also a problem with an internal wall that was dividing the kitchen from the lounge area, and that it posed a danger to occupants after the house’s completion. “As the Department and NHBRC do not certify sub-standard work, the contractor was issued with noncompliance certificates on the dissatisfactory work. The contractor’s engineer was asked to submit remedial action for the work that could not be certified.” The Department said it pays on value created, and the value created must be certified by a quality assurance inspector in order for the contractor to proceed to the next milestone of the house. All work not certified by the quality assurance inspectorate is not paid by the Department, and the contractor bears liability. MEC Sauls-August has warned all contractors working in the province to adhere to building regulations or face the wrath of the Department. “There is no way contractors will be allowed to build shoddy houses. We will not compromise on the quality of houses because of the rush to complete a project. This should serve as an indication to all contractors that the Department will not pay and accept poor quality houses,” she said. Source credit: SAnews.gov.za

SQUATTERS’ RIGHTS

Do squatters have rights? Evictions are a constant feature of South African society, with recurring land-grabs and land invasions taking place in various parts of the country. The question is whether unlawful occupiers have any rights in terms of the current South African laws to occupy property or land that does not belong to them. Plainly put: Do ‘squatter’s rights’ exist in South African law? Article written by: Bernadette Menezes – Director, TGR Attorneys

reviously, in terms of the common law, landowners could evict unlawful occupiers by only proving ownership of the property or the absence of consent for the occupiers to stay on the property. Today, the right to housing is an established fundamental human right that is enshrined in section 26 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996 (the ‘Constitution’).

THE CONSTITUTION The Constitution further extends the right to housing by affording a person the right not to be evicted from his home, or have his home demolished, without an order of the court. Squatters build structures which are their homes, and thus should enjoy the rights outlined above. The squatters’ constitutional rights to housing are therefore the first recognition of ‘squatter’s rights’ covered by South African laws. The second recognition of ‘squatter’s rights’ is evident in the laws preventing a landowner from evicting ‘squatters’ off his property or land. The Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Act 19 or 1998 (“PIE”), dictates that only a court has the discretion to grant an eviction order and only insofar as it is just and equitable under the circumstances. ‘Land-grabbers’ and ‘squatters’ fall within the definition of an ‘unlawful occupier’ in terms of section 1 of PIE and, as such, the temporary right referred to in PIE can be said to be the same as ‘squatter’s rights.’ The landowner must therefore first obtain an order of court to evict ‘squatters.’ PIE thus affords the unlawful occupier or squatter a temporary, limited right of occupation and entitlement to remain on the land without the landowner’s consent. This protection for ‘squatter’s rights’ persists until the State can provide alternative accommodation to the unlawful occupier who would be left homeless as a result of the eviction.

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LANDOWNER’S RIGHTS This is not to say that the landowner’s rights to property ownership outlined in section 25 of the Constitution are completely overlooked. With the implementation of PIE, the landowner’s property ownership right must be balanced with the right to housing of unlawful occupiers, to ensure that the unlawful occupier will be evicted where it is just and equitable to do so. Although the limitation of property ownership is generally temporary, in certain circumstances this limitation may have a permanent effect in instances where the State fails to provide alternative accommodation or permanent housing on alternative property. In such a case, the landowner will be entitled to compensation from the State. The right to housing therefore has the potential to limit the landowner’s right of property ownership. Notwithstanding the fact that squatters invading land is an illegal act, squatters do have rights, albeit limited and potentially temporary rights. The legal processes put in place for lawful eviction generally do not entitle an unlawful occupier or squatter to remain on the land indefinitely. Rather, they work to prevent evictions that would result in social injustice by affording the unlawful occupier a temporary limited right to remain on the land until adequate alternative accommodation is made available. The author, Bernadette Menezes, is a Director with the firm TGR Attorneys (Tshisevhe Gwina Ratshimbilani Inc.). For more information, visit www.tgrattorneys.co.za.

INTEGRATED HOUSING

Progress in Cornubia It was a joyous occasion for more than 100 families living in the Polokwane Transit Camp, near Newlands East (Durban area), when they were handed the keys to their new homes in Cornubia - Phase 1B in December last year. Photo credits: GCIS, courtesy of GovernmentZA.

mong the recipients was 20 year-old Wandile Khumalo, who is disabled. He was elated at finally having his own modified home to accommodate his disability. "I still can't believe I now have a home. From sleeping in a train station and living in a container in KwaMashu, to this luxury home. It is indeed a blessing. I'm now able to access the toilet and bathroom with ease. I also have running water and electricity. Our government is a government that cares for its people. I am grateful," said Khumalo. Three other people living with disabilities also received houses in the settlement.

Once completed, the project will boast 25,000 mixed income housing units, light industrial factories, clinics, primary schools, a high school, businesses, and parks. Mobile clinics are currently providing residents with healthcare services until a new clinic is built.

The process of allocating houses to the beneficiaries started on Thursday, 17 December 2015. Municipal trucks assisted with the transfer of residentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; belongings from the transit camp to their new homes. EThekwini Mayor James Nxumalo applauded the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Human Settlements Unit staff who worked tirelessly for several days to ensure the families occupied their new homes in time for Christmas. "I made a promise to the beneficiaries that before Christmas they would be settled in their new homes. I am proud that we have kept that promise. The Municipality wants to ensure that all residents have decent houses. Around 485 families are already living in Cornubia, which is KwaZulu-Natal's largest mixed use and mixed income integrated human settlement. This project will ultimately provide 15,000 housing units for indigent beneficiaries,â&#x20AC;? said Nxumalo.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

RENTAL HOUSING

Better days ahead - phase 2 of Langa underway All 463 households in the first phase of the City of Cape Town’s Langa Hostels Transformation Project, designated as a special redress project, were confirmed to have taken occupation of their new rental apartments at the end of last year - and work has already started on the next phase.

“The progress made has been as a result of a monumental effort from officials, contractors, other stakeholders, the community and beneficiaries. It shows that we can truly only make progress possible when we all work together,” said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Human Settlements, Councillor Benedicta van Minnen. The project will ultimately see the construction of more than 1,300 units over the next five years. Demolition work was promptly started in all of the feeder areas (the vacated blocks and informal settlement) in preparation for the second phase of the project. The first phase comprised the relocation of the 463 households

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who were living in the New Flats and Special Quarters hostels and in the Siyahlala informal settlement in Langa. The project progression includes the demolition of the blocks and informal structures on the sites as soon as they are vacated, so that the land can get cleared to make way for the construction of Phase 2 of the project. It was agreed that beneficiaries would be moved into their units as they were completed, and not have to wait for the completion of the entire project.

RENTAL HOUSING

Accordingly, the balance of households living in the New Flats and Special Quarters hostels will in due course be relocated to the Phase 2 units. The last remaining blocks will then be demolished, making way for the implementation of the remainder of this phase.

“This development is not about the bricks and the mortar. It is a project that is strengthening family bonds, reuniting families who were torn apart by the apartheid migrant labour system, and enabling a better future for these households,” said Councillor van Minnen.

Wage increases for the building industry Towards the close of last year, the Building Industry Bargaining Council (Cape of Good Hope) announced wage increases applicable to the sector.

he parties involved concluded a three-year wage agreement in 2013, with the current agreement due to expire at the end of October 2016. These announced increases became effective on 1 November 2015. The benefit of collective bargaining is that the industry can avoid wage strikes, an advantage that the industry can justifiably be proud of. “There have not been industrywide strikes within the jurisdiction of the BIBC for more than 20 years,” said Ronel Sheehan, Secretary for the Building Industry Bargaining Council (Cape of Good Hope). The increases range from 7.5% to about 12% depending on the category of employment and the area of operation. The higher increases are due to the Council’s commitment to wage parity between all the areas within its scope. The Bargaining Council has taken steps to apply for the increases (as well as other negotiated changes to the

agreement) to be extended to non-parties by the Minister of Labour. The Collective Agreement is aimed at ensuring stability in the building industry, and it governs the industry as a whole. It covers the critical elements of minimum wages and benefits – clauses that have wide-ranging effects on the industry as a whole. Employers and employees in the Peninsula, Boland, Malmesbury and Overstrand areas are represented by the Master Builders’ and Allied Trades Association Western Cape; Boland Master Builders’ and Allied Trades Association; Building Workers’ Union; Building, Wood and Allied Workers’ Union of South Africa; National Union of Mineworkers, and the Building Construction and Allied Workers’ Union. For more information, visit www.bibc.co.za.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

INDUSTRY NEWS

Affordable housing market a key component for Corobrik in 2016 Corobrik believes further developments in South Africa's affordable housing market and investments in social infrastructure are the key to positive prospects for 2016, and the clay brick and paving manufacturer is seeking to add to the value of South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s infrastructure stock and consumer investment at the entry housing level where there is minimal disposable income for maintenance.

orobrik MD Dirk Meyer says while masonry construction presents a unique value proposition to government, it presents a sound product choice for young families managing debt and with limited capital for maintenance. Corobrik face brick, an aesthetically appealing, high-quality product with its roots deep in South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s building fabric, does not accrue painting bills every three years or so, and possesses sound environmental credentials. The country has been experiencing growth in construction of homes between R500,000 and R2-million, targeting the emerging middle class. "This is the townhouse market that virtually disappeared in 2008 and now is making a comeback. It offers significant growth opportunities as outside that arena, there has been only a slow, gradual increase in the number of plans passed," Meyer says. Houses between R100,000 and R350,000 falling within the government subsidized housing segment catered to a different market, but also one in which government has been falling behind its targets. However, recent government initiatives were aimed at boosting delivery, signalling an opportunity for growth and market penetration for Corobrik. During 2015 Corobrik grew both its volumes and profits, albeit in single digits, at a time when competitors were backsliding. Consequently, Meyer says Corobrik was outperforming the trend, but acknowledges the pie was growing slowly - individual companies were largely boosting turnover at the expense of competitor market shares.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

Dirk Meyer, Corobrik MD. Meyer says the Gauteng and Eastern Cape governments have been building schools, and indications are that KwaZulu-Natal is now coming to the fore with its school infrastructure development initiatives.

INDUSTRY NEWS

This bodes well for the coming year, as the company supplies a significant share of the South African government’s social infrastructure programmes – from schools to hospitals and clinics. "The upcoming municipal elections will provide impetus as municipalities experience some urgency to deliver before their voters head for the polls. One example is the cycle tracks being installed in Soweto and Tembisa – good potential business for Corobrik.” However, load shedding in 2015 had posed significant challenges and might present a constraint on future growth. Without power, buildings could not be constructed and, while there were building projects aiming to come off the national grid, this was still a specialized niche. "The current stability of the power supply has been a positive factor," Meyer says. Looking to environmental issues, Meyer says Corobrik had all but concluded its ISO-14001 Environmental Management Certification Programme and that its operations were now aiming for the safety, health, environment and quality-integrated ISO-18000 management system certification.

Currently, three Corobrik factories have already achieved ISO-18000 certification, and management was rolling out the project across the remaining 12 factories. Meyer noted that the Avoca factory complex was the first Corobrik operation to achieve ISO-18000 certification, thereby extending its good neighbourliness in an area of Durban that was attracting new housing developments. Corobrik is currently modernizing the Gauteng-based Lawley factory to be more environmentally and economically sustainable. This includes installing robotic handling systems to boost manufacturing, quality, quantity and flexibility – which with its natural gas firing systems, put the facility well ahead of its competitors. Meyer says there were opportunities for Corobrik to build new factories to cater for niche market growth. While growth within South Africa will have to be fought for, Meyer believes there are a variety of opportunities in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries that Corobrik will be pursuing. Corobrik currently supplies into these markets and will pursue sales growth in these neighbouring countries.

SA Patent no. ZA2011/01062

Brick easy is essentially a system to lay bricks in a new and improved manner. The only tool required for the actual laying of the bricks is a pair of gloves for the bricklayer and the other components of the team. Any labourer with a minimum amount of training can easily be part of a team of three that can lay 500 bricks in an hour. THE STRUCTURAL BENEFITS OF BRICK EASY: The other important function which the profile performs, is the strength offered when the brick is laid against it – as opposed to virtually zero strength of the traditional fish line. The bricklayer is able to force the brick flush against the profile and push the next brick and mortar vertically to close the gaps between bricks. This means that there will not be any air gaps between bricks and that the mortar will be adhesive to the entire brick, making the brickwork very strong. The Headed or English bond which is seldom used nowadays, is easy to lay with this system. By using the mortar box to spread the fluid mortar, the bricklayer simply has to slide the brick over, taking enough mortar with the brick to push against the next brick and close the vertical joint completely.

HIGH PRODUCTIVITY: THREE SEMI-SKILLED WORKERS 500 BRICKS PER HOUR Giuseppe Dalla Torre +27 (0) 83 305 5191 gadallatorre@telkomsa.net

The little building pictured, measuring approximately 5m², was not only built for the purpose of the SABS test, but also to see how quick a building labourer could learn how to use the Brick Easy System. The SABS test was successful on all the requirements and parameters and a Certificate was issued. With a little bit of supervision, the three building labourers were able to lay six hundred bricks in the first hour, and two hours later the job was completed. W hen the time came to demolish the little building, I used a two and a half ton fork lift with a weight of four tons. I pointed the forks two brick courses from the top of the building, kept a distance of half a meter from the building and proceeded to impact the forks against the wall. However, there was no sign of movement and no cracks were noted. Only on the second attempt at the top brick course of the building did I manage to dislodge some bricks. I could not continue using the fork lift for fear of damaging it, and I opted for an air-driven breaker which still took a long time to eventually demolish the building.

PRECAST PRODUCTS

Precast products will ease economic challenges As emerging market currencies take a pounding on world markets and the rand tests new lows against the US$, it is prudent for the local construction industry to seek more efficient ways of developing much needed infrastructure and housing.

eighing in with some much-needed positive input on current economic challenges, executive director of the Concrete Manufacturers Association NPC (CMA), Frans Minnaar, says that the construction industry can weather the storm by ensuring faster, more efficient methods are employed to construct much needed infrastructure, roads and houses. He explains, “Bearing in mind that government has to deliver on a fair amount of promised development projects to soothe the expectations of their support, it is not unreasonable to believe that many of these projects will have to be completed soon, irrespective of economic data. Along with private sector projects, this will give some impetus to the market and will provide some stimulation for the industry – which will no doubt lead to fierce competition among bidders.”

ON THE UPSIDE With the expectation of tighter budgets and shorter delivery times that will be required to ease government’s mounting delivery pressures, the answer to sustainable construction will lie in the use of more efficient techniques. While traditional building product suppliers may be in for a tough time, Minnaar believes that precast concrete product suppliers will fare better, because their products will provide ‘under-pressure’ contractors with faster and more efficient means of construction. “In order to effectively complete projects, government and private sector investors will have to look at more efficient ways of construction in future, with the use of high-quality products that will speed up installation and provide shorter project durations. Contractors, too, will have to operate more smartly and do careful calculations regarding materials, transport, installation and labour costs, in order to be more efficient and competitive.” Also, while speed will be of the essence on future projects, a move to using precast elements improves the quality of workmanship. That is because elements are produced under well controlled conditions in established factories.

JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2016

Rather than sacrificing quality for speed, contractors will then have the opportunity to address government’s need for improved quality as well as speed and lower costs.

SMARTER METHODS

Frans Minnaar, Executive Director of the CMA.

“Rebuilds currently cost government millions of rands per annum. With a move to quality precast concrete products (manufactured by CMA member producers), an opportunity exists to eliminate this problem and save additional rands in years to come.” “Simultaneously, the use of precast concrete products will ensure stability in the workplace with the provision of long-term job security in factories. It is also well known that the use of precast concrete products also creates short-term jobs for local communities during the installation and placing of these products. It therefore serves a dual purpose as far as job creation is concerned.” “By simply changing the way we design and specify materials for building projects, we have the potential to deliver more for less. While economic realities no doubt have an impact on the delivery of infrastructure and housing, a shift to precast concrete has the opportunity to save end-users time and money to ensure development continues at an acceptable pace,” concludes Minnaar.

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO CONTACT THE AUTHOR: Frans Minnaar, Executive Director of the Concrete Manufacturers Association NPC (CMA) Tel: (011) 805 6742 Email: director@cma.org.za Website: www.cma.org.za.

MINING ACCOMMODATION

Human Settlements kicks off 2016 with handover in Marikana On 6 January 2016, Human Settlements Minister Lindiwe Sisulu officially handed over a R700-million housing project in Marikana, east of Rustenburg, in the North West. The Department has signalled this as a sign of government's commitment to provide decent housing for needy South Africans, especially to vulnerable groups.

ven amidst serious concerns expressed over the fairness of the allocation process for prospective beneficiaries, Minister Sisulu was happy to hand over houses to the miners and the community of Marikana. “We promised to help all 22 mining towns in distress, and today we are here to start that journey,” she said. Adding that the Human Settlements’ portfolio was the key driver of necessary societal change and transformation that is required in the country, the Minister confirmed that the Marikana Housing Project will yield 2,600 units upon completion. “Presently, 544 housing units have been completed. These include 252 units that are part of a community residential programme and another 292 Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses. The project will also cater for Finance Linked Individual Subsidy Programme (FLISP) and bonded houses,” she said.

REVAMPING MINING TOWNS The Department said the Marikana housing project is part of government’s plan to revitalize distressed mining communities, following the Social Accord signed by President Jacob Zuma in October 2012 as a commitment to

accelerate efforts to upgrade human settlements and related facilities in mining towns across the country. Minister Sisulu was accompanied by the Minister in the Presidency Jeff Radebe, North West Premier Supra Mahumapelo, and Local Government and Human Settlements MEC Wendy Nelson. Minister Sisulu explained that mineworkers who earn up to R15,000 will be eligible for the new housing development, although other factors as determined by the mining unions will also come into play. But ward councillor Eric Mundjeni says it’s simply a matter of clarifying the process to the mineworkers. “We are dealing with addressing issues that can cause a problem during the allocation of the beneficiaries and see how people are going to be accommodated,” he stated. The Rustenburg councillor and leaders of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) and the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) later met at the local community hall to brief the community on the criteria that will be used to decide who will occupy the housing project. Source Credit: SAnews.gov.za

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INDUSTRY NEWS

Marley Building Systems acquires Lafarge Gypsum Marley Building Systems has confirmed the finalization of its acquisition of the South African Gypsum business of Lafarge on 2 November 2015.

anaging Director, Mark Irving, issued a written statement that said, “The acquisition is complementary to our business, and the combined team will create a unique and competitive offer that capitalizes on today’s Southern African building trends. This acquisition is in line with Etex’s vision of strengthening our position by investing in Southern Africa.” Firmly established in both Europe and Latin America since 1905 and 1937 respectively, Etex aims to strengthen its position in Africa, with the Southern African region and Nigeria viewed as the organization’s main drivers of growth. The demand for housing in the region has been on the rise for years, and Etex considers the growing population in Southern Africa as one of the main reasons for this trend, along with an emerging middle class, asserting that South Africa alone already accounts for 15% of Africa’s GDP. Irving further commented on the Southern African market becoming increasingly regulated with various quality standards being adopted, including SANS204 for Energy Efficiency in Buildings and SANS517 for Light Steel Frame Building. “Consequently, alternative building methods,

such as dry construction, are gradually replacing traditional construction,” he observed. “Besides amplifying its presence in Southern Africa, Marley Building Systems will also combine the expertise of various support functions like marketing, sales and customer service. Thus, the company will achieve higher operational excellence and service quality, and a more streamlined structure in the region,” Irving concluded.

ABOUT ETEX Etex is a Belgian industrial group that specializes in manufacturing and marketing sustainable building materials. Its four core businesses are: cladding and building boards in fibre cement and plaster, roofing materials, passive fire protection and high performance insulation, and ceramic floor and wall tiles. The group employs more than 17,000 people who operate on 118 production sites in 43 countries, yielding annual sales of about 3 billion euro. For more information, visit www.etexgroup.com or send an email to Sean Singh, Marketing and Business Development Manager: sean.singh@marley.co.za.

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