MIVED shuts down Santiago building for illegal construction

Santiago, D.R.- The Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED) ordered the permanent suspension and militarization of a commercial building on Duarte Avenue in Santiago de los Caballeros. The establishment, initially identified as “La Mandarria Hardware Store” and later reopened as “Decoplax,” was closed after authorities confirmed it lacked permits such as approved plans, a building license, and inspection records. Despite a previous suspension order, those responsible resumed operations under a new name to evade regulations.

In response, MIVED not only sealed the premises but also filed a formal complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office against the owners for violations of Law No. 687-82 on Buildings and technical regulations R-021 and R-004. The ministry stressed that all construction projects must comply with the legal process through the One-Stop Construction Window (VUC) and be subject to inspections to ensure safety and transparency. The minister further noted that changing a business identity does not exempt violators from responsibility and emphasized that the measure aims to protect urban planning, citizen safety, and respect for the law.