Construction company ENGECO S.A.M. has issued a statement following last week’s precautionary evacuation of the luxury La Petite Afrique residence in Monte Carlo, insisting the building’s structural integrity has never been compromised and seeking to dispel what it describes as inaccurate information circulated after the incident…
Residents of the development were evacuated on 22 July after a crack was discovered in a basement wall, prompting an immediate response from Monaco’s Fire Brigade whilst structural engineers carried out detailed assessments. His Serene Highness Prince Albert II also visited the scene to receive a briefing from officials on the situation.
Subsequent investigations concluded that the movement was confined to Basement Level 1 and had not affected either the residential structure above or the lower basement levels. Engineers determined that the movement remained localised because of the way structural loads are distributed at that level.
In its statement, ENGECO said the building “has not moved” and that its structural integrity “has never been compromised”. The company added that the crack, measuring less than 1.5 centimetres, appeared in a wall that does not form part of the building’s main structural framework and described the issue as an isolated defect.
ENGECO said remedial works were carried out immediately, allowing all residents to return to their homes once the repairs were completed.
The company also criticised what it described as “alarmist and technically unfounded” information that circulated in the hours following the incident, saying unverified reports prompted commentary that was both harmful and damaging.
Completed in 2016, La Petite Afrique occupies a prominent site on Avenue de la Madone overlooking Place du Casino and comprises eight luxury apartments above four underground parking levels.