The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has raised concerns about structural defects observed in three apartment blocks at Karibu Homes in Athi River, Machakos County, and called for further technical investigations.
IEK said its engineers visited the development following reports of structural defects and observed cracks in Blocks M, N and P within London Court.
The development comprises 500 residential units in 63 apartment blocks, with residents in some affected units having vacated their homes over safety concerns.
“The Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK) has taken a keen interest in recent media reports of structural defects in apartments at Karibu Homes, Athi River, Machakos County.
Following a site visit by IEK engineers, it was established that the development comprises 500 residential units in 63 apartment blocks. Structural cracks were observed in Blocks M, N and P within London Court, with residents of a number of affected units having vacated their premises over safety concerns,” read part of the statement.
IEK Orders Further Tests After Structural Cracks At Karibu Homes
According to IEK, the cracks were first noticed in 2019 and have continued to widen, with preliminary visual observations suggesting possible differential settlement, where parts of a building’s foundation sink unevenly.
The engineers also observed poor stormwater drainage around some of the affected buildings, including roof downpipes discharging water close to the foundations.
IEK said prolonged water accumulation could weaken the soil supporting the foundations over time.
The inspection also found significant damp-related deterioration at the lower sections of some external walls, which the engineers said was consistent with prolonged exposure to standing water.
However, IEK said the observations were preliminary and that it had not established the cause of the defects.
“A comprehensive technical investigation is required to accurately establish the condition and safety of the affected buildings,” the institution said.
The investigation will examine the adequacy of the foundation systems and supporting ground, compliance with approved structural designs, concrete quality and strength, reinforcement, construction methods, and professional supervision.
IEK also said the investigation should establish whether any subsequent alterations to the buildings may have affected load paths.
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Engineers Give Recommendations
The institution recommended destructive and non-destructive structural tests on the affected blocks, and said it would share the findings with residents and relevant authorities.
It also called for a comprehensive geotechnical investigation to assess the foundations and guide any repair or strengthening works.
IEK also recommended proper stormwater management around all buildings to prevent water from accumulating near foundations.
The institution advised that Blocks M, N and P remain vacant until repair and strengthening works are safely completed.
Residents in other blocks were advised to report new or widening cracks, sticking doors or windows, and water pooling against walls to management and county authorities for assessment by a qualified professional engineer.
Also Read: Building Collapses in Kibera’s Highrise Area
About Karibu Homes Athi River
Karibu Homes Riverview is a gated housing estate located along Kinanie Road, about one kilometre off Mombasa Road in Athi River, Machakos County.
Developed by Ravi Kohli, the master-planned community comprises 500 residential units spread across 63 apartment blocks.
The estate features low-rise two- and three-bedroom apartments and was developed to provide residential housing outside Nairobi’s central business district.
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