A representative of the Petroleum Construction and Civil Engineering Joint Stock Company (PVC-IC), the building's developer, addressed the recent cracking at Lapen Center, located at 33A 30 Thang 4 Street, during a meeting on July 28th with the Department of Construction's Quality Management Division.

Inspectors examine cracks in apartment 16-12B. Photo: Truong Ha

Lapen Center is a 34-story building with two basement levels, housing 486 apartments and approximately 1,800 residents. The mixed-use building features a shopping center, cinema, swimming pool, and sports facilities.

According to the developer's representative, the building was constructed in 2016 and became operational in 12/2019. In 2022 and 2023, cracks and peeling appeared in several areas and were subsequently repaired.

The current damage, affecting six apartments on the 16th floor, was first noticed by residents about 10 days ago. Apartment 16-08 sustained the most significant damage, with a crack measuring 5 cm wide and 4 m long.

Cracks and peeling in apartment 16-17. Photo: Truong Ha

Authorities, based on visual inspection, determined that the building's reinforced concrete structure remains unaffected. However, they noted that wall construction, especially for large sections, requires proper connection to the main structure, and there are signs of slippage between the walls and beams in the building.

Following the inspection, the developer was asked to provide complete legal documentation, acceptance records, and settlement and tilt monitoring data.

The cracks coincided with renovations on the first and second floors of the Lapen Center shopping mall. The contractor for this project has also been requested to submit relevant documentation and assessments. Renovation work has been temporarily halted.

The Department of Construction will report to the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee (UBND) and issue guidelines for the developer and related parties to conduct safety assessments and propose remediation plans.

A 4-meter crack under apartment 16-08, spanning the 15th and 16th floors. Photo: Truong Ha

As an immediate measure, the developer has been instructed to remove or reinforce the cracked wall sections in apartment 16-08 that pose a risk of collapse. The building management has been asked to coordinate with relevant parties and authorities to implement fire safety and evacuation measures for residents.

Truong Ha