Local Association of Architects and Engineers Critique Construction Permits in Haiti
A Scathing Review: The Construction Permit Process in Haiti
In a damning critique, the local association of architects and engineers has lambasted the construction permit process in Haiti, labeling it as cumbersome, time-consuming, and costly.
The Problem with the Current System
According to the association, obtaining a building permit in Haiti involves an average of 14 procedures, which takes a staggering 97 days. To make matters worse, this lengthy process comes at a significant cost, amounting to 21.9% of the warehouse value. This is significantly higher than the regional averages in Latin America and the Caribbean, which stand at 12 procedures, 152.3 days, and 3.6% of the warehouse value.
Specific Issues with the Process
The association highlighted several issues with the current system, including:
- Unnecessary requirements: The need for a soil test, topographical map, and building permit is often unnecessary or redundant, adding to the complexity of the process.
- Lack of transparency: Inspections are mandated by law but often do not take place in practice, leading to a lack of accountability.
- Inefficient process: The association argues that the current system discourages investment and hinders economic growth.
A Call for Reform
“The construction permit process in Haiti is a nightmare,” said Jean-Pierre, president of the local association of architects and engineers. “It’s a bureaucratic quagmire that needs to be reformed to make it more efficient, transparent, and cost-effective.”
The association has urged the government to take immediate action to reform the construction permit process.
Response from the Ministry
In response to the criticism, the Ministry of Public Works stated its commitment to improving the process and working with stakeholders to identify areas for improvement. While this is a positive step forward, it remains to be seen whether meaningful reforms will be implemented to address the pressing issues facing the construction sector in Haiti.