Extensive inspection operation in Skopje after storm damage, Gjorgjievski issues directive for strict controls

After the storm that swept through Skopje on July 21, emergency and civil protection services were mobilized in several areas of the capital, while damage is reported to a number of residential and public buildings.

The Mayor of Skopje, Orce Gjorgjievski, has ordered a new wave of thorough inspections to avoid the repetition of dangerous situations with damaged roof structures. He stressed that all administrative units of the city that have building and housing inspectors at their disposal have been instructed to start rigorous controls, while the inspection teams of the City of Skopje itself will also be engaged in its areas of responsibility.

“I have issued a clear order to all municipalities of Skopje that have building and housing inspectors, and with our other supervisory services we will assist in implementing strict inspections, first of all where such irregularities have been found,” Gjorgjievski stated.

He admitted that municipal administrations face difficulties due to a lack of staff and technical means to supervise all residential buildings on their own, emphasizing that part of the responsibility should also be transferred to building managers.

Furthermore, Gjorgjievski stressed the need for residential building maintenance companies to carry out periodic roof assessments and compile reports, a practice that would increase transparency and enable early identification of potential risks.

The Mayor recalled that some of the roofs damaged by the recent storm belonged to old buildings, constructed many decades ago, which have never undergone a renovation process.

Regarding compensation, Gjorgjievski invited citizens who have suffered material losses to report their case to their municipality and the Ministry of Interior. After the relevant municipal commissions carry out assessments, the reports will be forwarded to the Government, which will then decide on compensation through the legally prescribed channels.