The building’s right side had sunk by one metre and tilted by two metres to the side, suggesting that there was a problem with the foundation pillars or stanchions, EIT president Thanes Weerasiri said during the Wednesday inspection of the scene.

Such subsidence will continue further depending on the characteristics of the soil, Thanes said, adding that there were previous cracks on the building’s right side suggesting the collapse has begun a while ago without anyone noticing.

The building was sealed off as a precaution pending a further investigation, he said. If authorities conclude there is not a further risk of collapse, tenants will be allowed to enter the structure to collect their belongings.

Thanes said the cost to repair the building might be more expensive than just demolishing it.

Bangkok governor secretary Yutthapan Meechai, who also observed the EIT inspection, said officials would check to see if the building’s partial collapse would affect other buildings and roads in the nearby area.

Officials will also review the time required to complete the next steps such as repair or demolition based on the preparedness of the city and the building owner, as well as what remedial measures could be provided to affected people.

The partial collapse of the 20-year-old building, which is located on an old rice field, took place at about 10.20pm, resulting in two slight injuries. Police and related agencies have already set up a tent as a coordinating centre to aid affected tenants and provide relief aid.