Building Control
What do Building Control do?
Estate agents, trades men, surveyors even your neighbours will often mysteriously refer to “building control”. Let’s demystify this crucial aspect of the UK’s construction industry. The next series of blogs we will be lifting the lid on this mystery.
Unlike Planning, Building Control, is not interested in the aesthetics and street scape. Building Control is the nuts and bolts. They are looking to see if the standards set in the building regulations have been met. The building regulations are an alphabetised list that sets out the legal requirements that apply to most new building work, alterations, and extensions to existing buildings. They are cleverly written. They do not list the materials required but more the performance that must be achieved. Hence there are many differing ways to achieve compliance. Hence often subjective decisions must be made.
How is this done?
Plan Checking: Before work begins, Building Control will scrutinize your plans to ensure they comply with the regulations.
Site Inspections: During construction, inspectors will visit the site at various stages to check that the work is being carried out according to the approved plans and the Building Regulations.
Certification: Upon completion, Building Control will issue a completion certificate, confirming that the work meets the required standards. This certificate is crucial for property sales and insurance purposes.
Why is it Important?
Safety: Building Regulations are designed to protect people from hazards such as structural collapse, fire, slips and trips and gas leaks.
Health: Regulations also address issues like ventilation, drainage and damp proofing, ensuring healthy living conditions.
Sustainability: Modern Building Regulations emphasize energy efficiency and sustainable construction practices.
Legal Compliance: Failure to comply with Building Regulations can result in legal action and costly rectification work.
Property Value: A completion certificate adds value to your property and provides peace of mind to potential buyers. It also prevents any last-minute hiccups upon sale.
Or at least that is the theory.