Building Control does not exist as an obstacle to your intentions, but is there to ensure that buildings are safe, healthy, accessible and sustainable for current and future generations.
The main function of Building Control is to ensure that new building work meets the requirements of the Building Regulations. These Regulations cover matters such as structural stability, fire safety, conservation of fuel and power and access and facilities for disabled persons. This is achieved by checking plans of proposed works and then carrying out inspections on site as the work proceeds.
Building Control will support and advise customers on how to end up with the result that they want, but this is not a substitute for professional design and construction advice. It is also important to note that Building Control is not responsible for compliance with building standards, that is the duty of the person carrying out the work. If work is found not to comply the person responsible could be prosecuted and the owner required to put the work right.
In addition, our role is not to manage every stage of the construction process or to address issues regarding quality of work where these are not relevant to compliance with Building Regulations. We also cannot deal with contractual or civil disputes, such as those that may arise between client and builder or between neighbours (such as Party Wall or boundary disputes).
Building Control also carry out additional safety roles in addition to the main function, such as checking the stability of certain temporary structures and dealing with demolition works and dangerous structures.
BUILDING CONTROL HANDBOOK - To request a copy of the Building Control Handbook, please use the 'Send a Message' tab.