Wellington City Council only conducted on-site inspections at Loafers Lodge twice in the past decade, despite advice it would be more appropriate for such checks to happen every year

The most recent check, in 2018, found several problems including items being installed in an escape route, that could combust in an emergency or block the fire exit.

Fire and smoke doors designed to prevent fire from spreading were also wedged open.

Council chief planning officer Liam Hodgetts says the problems were worked on with the building owner over the following months and an infringement notice was issued.

Five people died in the hostel blaze that broke out two weeks ago today.