Contractor Responsible for Bulebel Wall Collapse, Architects' Body Finds

The Kamra tal-Periti has concluded that a partial wall collapse at a Bulebel construction site last year was caused by the contractor's failure to follow correct construction sequencing, clearing the project's architect of any professional negligence.[1]

In a statement issued on Thursday, the professional body said its investigation determined that the collapse resulted from the contractor's failure to infill and seal perimeter walls, which had been designed to support a slab before being cast.[1] The incident occurred at the former Gutenberg factory site, which was being demolished and reconstructed. No injuries were reported.

Poor Workmanship Identified

Beyond the primary cause, the Kamra also noted poor workmanship elsewhere on the site, including mismatched wall joints near one corner due to masonry courses not being built level.[1] These findings paint a picture of execution failures rather than design flaws.

"From the evidence gathered, it is amply clear that the collapse did not occur as a result of negligent designs or instructions, or more generally due to any professional negligence on the perit's part," the Kamra said.[1]

Clear Division of Responsibility

The body observed that the correct execution of works falls exclusively under the contractor's responsibility, adding that it is not an architect's role to perform quality control on site, as this would constitute a conflict of responsibilities.[1]

The investigation was opened in March 2025 following the collapse, and the council said it had unanimously resolved to close the investigation.[1] The finding underscores an important principle in Malta's construction industry: architects design and oversee, but contractors must ensure works are carried out to specification.