- Dom
What is Building Control and do I need it?
You probably hear the words "Building Control" when talking about construction projects, or may have no idea what it is. Well, its a very important requirement when undertaking construction and refurbishment projects.
So what is it?
Building control is a requirement in the United Kingdom that ensures that buildings are constructed safely and to a high standard by following the Building regulations. It is designed to protect the health and safety of people who live or work in buildings, as well as the wider community.
How does Building Control work?
The building control process begins with the submission of plans for a proposed building project to the local authority or by an Approved Inspector. If you want to know the difference between building control and approved inspectors, then click the link below.
A building control officer or an approved inspector will then review the plans to ensure that they comply with the Building Regulations. The building regulations are a set of technical standards that cover various aspects of construction such as structural integrity, fire safety, and energy efficiency.
An initial notice will need to be served by the Approved Inspector to your local building authority who are part of your local council. This is only if you're using an approved inspector (this is explained more in my other post, click below).
Once the plans have been initially approved, the building work can usually commence. As the work progresses, the building control officer or Approved Inspector will carry out site inspections to ensure that the work is being carried out in accordance with the approved plans and the Building Regulations.
It is important to note that building control applies to both new build projects and renovations to existing buildings. It is the responsibility of the building owner or developer to ensure that the work complies with the Building Regulations.
What if I ignore it?
Failure to adhere to the Building Regulations can result in enforcement action being taken by the local authority, including the issuance of a stop notice or the requirement for the work to be altered or removed. This may also be an issue when you decide to sell or insure your home!
In summary, building control is an important system that ensures that buildings in the UK are built to the building regulations, and are safe for the people who use them. It is the responsibility of the building owner or developer to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations, so that means you!