It is undoubtedly one of the most well-known constructions in Santa Cruz of Tenerife and among the initial landmarks encountered by many newcomers to the island. The genuine condition of the Olympus building standing in Plaza de la Candelaria since 1975, differs significantly from its outward appearance, as revealed by a Municipality report, highlighting the risk of fires, pest infestations, absence of an evacuation strategy for its commercial zone, and an active complaint.
Erected in 1975, the Olympus construction soars impressively at a height of 57 meters, dominating the Santa Cruz skyline. During its inception, it posed a challenge due to its unique characteristics, serving as a pioneering concept by incorporating residences, public areas, and offices. However, the present reality, detailed in a report dated March 27, 2024, by the Autonomous Body of the Municipal Urban Planning Management, exposes critical shortcomings including deficiencies in fire suppression equipment.
The concerns raised by multiple owners necessitated the involvement of the City Council’s technical staff.
Disconnection of Fire Alarms in the Olympo edifice
The 18-page report is explicit and descriptive. Regarding fire suppression gear, it states that “the fire water pressure assembly is non-operational, partially at least,” and that “the fire detection systems and alarm controls were inactive and disconnected,” in addition to the fact that “the validity of inspections on fire extinguishers and hydrants is not confirmed through the control labels.”
“Upon inspection following a maintenance manager’s request, it was discovered that the residences lacked fire suppression equipment with valid labels, predating their usage, and the dry extinguishing column was left unmarked with signs of malfunction,” as highlighted in the report.
“Severe inadequacies in the electrical setups of the shopping precinct”
The commercial segment of the Olympo building, encompassing both interior walkways and exterior units, also exhibits “serious deficiencies” according to the Urban Planning report: “Meter rooms lack full protective measures to prevent tampering and are laid out for easy reading of indications. Not all meters or safety fuses possess individual labels indicating their specific derivation; some meter rooms intersect with elevator apparatus and other services, contravening the ITC MIE BT 15 “Meters” link facilities.”
The issues with fire prevention measures extend beyond residential zones, with inspectors identifying “portable fire extinguishers exceeding four years with expired labels” within the commercial premises.
The report reiterates, “Under current circumstances, protection against electric shock or fire hazards is not assured.”
Control of Occupancy
The documentation further indicates that “the occupancy levels and capacities of the shopping hub remain inadequately substantiated, as do the evacuation provisions, as per article 19 of the regulations governing classified activities (Decree 86/ 2013, dated August 1, BOC No. 156 of August 14, 2013), prompting the current building committee to validate these through a certified document signed by a ‘capable qualified technician.’”
Infested with Cockroaches
The cooling system essential for the air conditioning operations of the establishments is in a state of “poor maintenance,” characterized by water leakages and a lack of cleanliness, fostering an environment conducive to an “active and large colony” of cockroaches: “Spreading across the inspected area, this colony originates from sewage expansion tanks linked to activities, equipped with a pump system directing wastewater into the municipal sewage network.”
Given the aforementioned issues, the report’s conclusion directs the owners’ community to rectify and address up to 12 aspects primarily concerning electrical setups, fire safety apparatus, and capacity management within the commercial section, within a span of 15 days, with the findings communicated to the relevant administrative entities.
Owners’ Discontent
Moreover, numerous owners of apartments and premises within the Olympo structure have filed a complaint, acknowledged by the Court of Instruction Number 4 in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This legal action was triggered by the failure to approve expenses, income, and carry out works, with the last financial records dating back to 2018 and the latest routine owners’ assembly taking place in 2019.
They highlight a “stalemate of the community” as they reflect on expenses exceeding 340,000 euros annually, left unapproved for over four years during a time void of financial oversight. The defendants have been called to provide their testimonies on April 23 and 30.
