Awning safety and maintenance
Shopfront awnings, balconies and similar structures that extend over public footpaths can pose a risk to public safety if they deteriorate or are not properly maintained.
WorkSafe Queensland has previously issued safety alerts following several awning failures across the state. These incidents have often been caused by corrosion, weathering, or structural components such as anchor points and supports failing over time.
Building owners are responsible for ensuring that awnings and any supporting structures attached to their buildings remain structurally sound and safe.
Awning safety audit Owner responsibilitiesWhat building owners should doInspection and certification processBuilding maintenance program
Council is undertaking a safety audit of awnings and similar structures that overhang roads or public footpaths throughout the region.
This audit involves:
- conducting a preliminary inspection of awnings and structures over public land
- undertaking a risk assessment where required
- writing to relevant property owners to advise them of the audit and any recommended actions.
There are approximately 1,000 shopfront awnings and similar structures within the region. Many of these were built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which makes regular inspection and maintenance important.
Awnings, balconies and similar structures that form part of a building are the responsibility of the building owner, even when the structure extends over public land such as a footpath.
Owners are responsible for ensuring these structures:
- remain structurally sound
- do not pose a safety risk to the public
- are appropriately maintained.
Where Council identifies a potential safety risk, property owners may be directed to carry out repairs or other necessary works.
Failure to address identified safety risks may result in enforcement action.
If you receive correspondence from Council regarding an awning or similar structure, it is recommended that you:
- engage a qualified builder or structural engineer to inspect the awning, balcony or relevant structure
- confirm the structural integrity of the awning and any supporting building elements
- check the adequacy of stormwater drainage systems associated with the awning.
If defects are identified, the building owner may need to:
- engage a Registered Professional Engineer of Queensland (RPEQ) to assess the structure and prepare a rectification report
- obtain any required approvals from a Building Certifier
- carry out the recommended repair or strengthening works
- obtain certification confirming the awning or structure is safe and fit for purpose.
Copies of relevant inspection reports and certification should be retained and made available to Council if requested.
Inspection of existing awnings typically involves several stages carried out by a suitably qualified building professional or structural engineer.
Typical issues that may affect older awnings include corrosion of tie-rods and anchor plates, deterioration of structural supports, inadequate original design, or damage caused by weather exposure. Inspection helps identify these issues before they pose a risk to public safety.
These may include:
Initial inspection and assessment
A preliminary inspection of the structure and review of any available building records or drawings.
Detailed inspection
Further inspection of structural elements may be undertaken where required. This may include examination of:
- framing members such as rafters and purlins
- tie-rods and anchorage points
- connection plates and fixings
- corrosion or deterioration of structural steel
- the condition of supporting masonry or structural walls.
In some cases structural components may be concealed within walls or roof structures and further investigation may be required to assess their condition.
Reporting and rectification recommendations
Preparation of a report outlining the condition of the awning and any required repairs or strengthening works.
Inspection of rectification works
Verification that any repair works have been completed in accordance with engineering recommendations.
Certification
Certification by a structural engineer and/or private building certifier confirming the awning is structurally adequate and complies with relevant standards. Certification may also include recommendations for ongoing maintenance and inspection intervals.
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The exact inspection process will vary depending on the age, design and condition of the structure.
As part of Council’s inspection program, the appearance and maintenance of buildings may also be assessed.
Where the condition of a building or part of a building is considered to detract from the amenity of the surrounding area due to deterioration, Council may direct the owner to take appropriate action.
This may include:
- removing accumulated dirt or grime
- repairing damaged building elements i.e. awing linings and trims, roof sheets and flashings/guttering
- repainting deteriorated surfaces.
Contact us
If you have questions about the awning safety audit or your responsibilities as a building owner, contact Council:
Visit a Council Customer Service Centre
Phone: 1300 79 49 29
Email enquiry@frasercoast.qld.gov.au