Assessing Factors Affecting Implementation of the National Building Regulations (L.I.1630) in Ghana

Abstract

The National Building Regulation (NBR) (L.I. 1630) was enacted in 1996 in Ghana to regulate the erection of buildings, alteration of building structures and execute works or install fittings in connection with any building. Although, this regulation has been enacted, its implementation is questionable. The aim of this research was to assess factors affecting the implementation of the NBR and measures to enhance smooth implementation of NBR in Ghana. Interview and questionnaire survey were the two principal methods used to elicit data from 180 respondents. Three (3) key groups of respondents were targeted for the study, namely local authority staff, building practitioners and building owners. The research findings indicated that the most important factors affecting the implementation of the NBR in Ghana are: corruption; bureaucratic procedures; lack of public education about the building regulations; inadequate resources for implementers; and political interference. The respondents suggest that to deal with the factors affecting implementation of the NBR, there is the need to allow easy access to information on NBR and the use of one-stop shops to improve coordination. Also professionals who compromise the NBR should be sanctioned and then the public should be educated and sensitized about the NBR.

Keywords: national building regulation, implementation, local authorities, Ghana