Taipei, Taiwan – Disturbing allegations have surfaced regarding construction irregularities at the Da’an MONEY apartment complex, located near a major MRT station. Henghe Construction, the company responsible for the growth, stands accused of multiple violations that could jeopardize the safety of residents.

Fire Safety Concerns at the Forefront

The accusations center around a disregard for established safety protocols, including the use of flammable materials and alterations to crucial fire separation structures. Vice President of the Taiwan Public Security Society, Li Jinrong, drew parallels to the devastating 2023 Antai Hospital fire in Pingtung, where nine lives were lost due to compromised fire safety measures. The Antai Hospital tragedy stemmed from unauthorized construction that disrupted fire zoning, allowing flames and smoke to spread rapidly.

Li Jinrong stated that the practices employed by Henghe Construction bear a striking resemblance to the conditions that led to the Antai Hospital disaster. Specifically, the use of flammable plywood in public spaces and safety ladder ceilings raises serious concerns. Did You know? Plywood’s rapid combustion can quickly escalate a fire, producing thick smoke that obstructs escape routes.

Consumer Rights and Liquidated Damages

Adding to the controversy,resident Liu Jinming claims Henghe Construction attempted to strong-arm homeowners into accepting the possibly unsafe building by threatening to forfeit a significant portion of their purchase price – approximately 4 million yuan (roughly $125,000 USD) – as liquidated damages. This tactic is seen by many as a breach of contract and a violation of the Consumer Protection Act.

Liu Jinming explained he requested the builder fix the reported issues before moving in, but was met with resistance and financial threats. This situation places prospective residents in a tough position-choosing between financial loss and living in a potentially hazardous habitat.

Timeline of Events

Date Event
Mid-April 2025 Public Security Institute inspectors identify potential safety issues.
October 22, 2025 Allegations of construction violations become public.

li Jinrong emphasized that a building use license does not guarantee ongoing safety. Illegal constructions often occur during the interim period between inspection and occupancy, leaving residents vulnerable.The Public Security Institute alerted Henghe Construction to the issues in mid-April, but the concerns were seemingly dismissed.

pro Tip: Always conduct thorough self-reliant inspections before finalizing the purchase of a new property and consult with qualified professionals regarding building safety standards.

These allegations underscore the critical importance of diligent oversight and adherence to building regulations to protect public safety and consumer rights. The situation at the da’an MONEY Apartment complex serves as a stark reminder of the potentially devastating consequences of prioritizing profits over safety.