A review of structural health challenges in community title schemes above three storeys in Queensland

The Community Title Scheme (CTS) sector in the state of Queensland, is in a state of rapid development with high rise residential buildings all along its coastline from Coolangatta through to Noosa, with the Gold Coast and Brisbane having the densest concentrations. With limited or no structural health knowledge or foresight, and after builders’ warranty expiry or bankruptcy, lot owners are at the mercy of a structural health event occurring. The consequences of such an event can cause death or leave lot owners and their tenants with no recourse to remedy and possible financial ruin. This paper reviews structural health challenges in Queensland's Community Title Schemes, identifying significant management deficiencies, inadequate maintenance practices, and insufficient regulatory oversight. These gaps can contribute to unforeseen and devastating structural failures or a temporary or permanent building evacuation order. The paper advocates for regular, qualified inspections and the creation of a structural health registry to improve oversight and reduce risks, proposing foundational strategies for future research and policy development for the sector.