How to avoid buying a house in a building that will collapse

As we digest the death of 41+ people including 11 children due to a building collapse in Mumbra, several questions arise.  Why did the building collapse? Who is responsible? What should I do to avoid a similar fate?  Let us talk about the last question, because if you find answers to what you can do, take responsibility and question every decision the local authorities and the builder will fall in line. 

So, what is it that you can do to avoid a catastrophic collapse of the building you buy a home in- ask questions. Some things that you should consider when you are buying a house-

1.       Thoroughly factcheck the Builder from whom you are buying the property. Ideally, you want to buy from someone who has been around in business for atleast 10 years. Ask them of their prior constructions and go visit those complexes. 
2.       If the promoter and builder for a complex are different entities again follow point no. 1
3.       Personally visit the site where your dream home is being built. If you are new to the city ask around if the land is reclaimed land. Enquire prior usage of land. What structure was present on land prior to building your dream home makes a huge difference on the design of foundations for the building.  If the building is being built on marshy land, reclaimed land or soft soil ask the builder if he has adopted pile foundations. Ask the builder if he has used steel liner for the foundations. Ask for proof of having these in the ground. If he refuses, walk out. If 10 such people walk out the 11^th person will get proof without asking.
4.        Ask the builder who is the RCC Consultant for the complex. Go visit the RCC Consultant’s office. Ask him his prior projects. Go visit those projects.
5.        If you are taking a loan from the Bank ask what has the Bank done to ensure quality and safe construction.  The Bank expects you to take insurance for repayment in case of loss of your life. What happens when the building collapses?
6.       Even if you are a second buyer if the complex is less than 5 years old do your research. 

As a consumer when you demand you get answers otherwise you continue to be in the dark. Educate yourself. 

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