Starting building work

For all types of work you should initially give us written notice of commencement at least two days before you start the work.

At commencement of the work we will confirm an inspection notification framework for each project, which will state the notifications we require, in order to inspect the works to minimise non-compliance with the Building Regulations.

This will usually include:

• Foundation excavations
• Dpc / dpm.
• Drainage, laid and tested
• Brickwork / external walls at first lift and first and second floor levels as appropriate
• Completed roof structure
• Pre-plaster
• Structural steelwork
• Any other works the Council consider unusual design or method of construction
• Completion

There may be other stages of work that we need to inspect, particularly for other types of projects. For example, loft conversions where inspection of critical elements such as floor, roof, fire precautions and steel works will also be carried out.

The surveyor will be happy to discuss these with you at the start of the project.

The notifications required previously will be augmented by notifications required to inspect:

• All structural elements and components the failure of which would in the opinion of the Council be significant.
• All works which in the opinion of the Council would constitute unusual design or method of construction.
• Work relating to fire safety.
• Any type of work, construction, equipment or material which could if not verified, cause defects which would in the opinion of the Council be seriously detrimental to the fundamental purpose of the building regulations.
• Any additional areas of work necessary for the subsequent issue of a certificate of completion.
• Where the building is subject to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and any part is to be occupied before completion then at least 5 days notice is required before it is occupied.

For your further assistance building control surveyors may on occasions carry out unannounced additional visits to check on the progress of work.

All requests for inspections will be made the same day if requested before 10am.

You should contact building control within five days of completing your work (or prior to occupation) where a final inspection will be made.

Following a satisfactory inspection, a completion certificate will be issued.

Completion certificates are essential documentary evidence, making sure that the works satisfied the requirements of the building regulations at the time of the completion inspection.

A completion certificate may be required when selling a property or raising finance, so keep it in a safe place.

The building control inspection service is restricted to making sure as far as reasonably practical that the relevant building regulation requirements are satisfied. 

Building Control Surveyors will not be present for most of the building project and do not act as "Clerk of Works".

It is primarily the responsibility of the person commissioning and / or carrying out the work to comply with building regulations.

If you wish to have a more extensive supervisory service you are advised to employ a suitably qualified person (eg Clerk of Works) to carry this out on your behalf.