Building control regulations in the UK are designed to ensure that construction projects comply with safety, health, and environmental standards. Failing to adhere to these regulations can lead to delays, fines, or even legal issues.
Here are ten things that could catch you out with building control in the UK, though this is just ones we’ve thought of or come across ourselves; and it is by no means exhaustive. We’re just trying to highlight some potential pitfalls which will hopefully help you avoid them!
1. Provide ccess for Inspections: Perhaps the most basic thing, but make sure you provide proper access for building control inspections! Timely inspections are crucial to ensure that the work meets the required standards at various stages, and not providing the necessary access is a real own-goal in terms of time and cost to the project.
2. Planning Permission: Don’t just assume that building control approval is sufficient. If you don’t obtain the necessary planning permission, you can be stuck with serious issues. Planning permission and building control are distinct processes, and both may be required for a project. Even if you consider your development within permitted development (PD) rights, you may still need the planning department to issue you with a Lawful Development Certificate (LDC) or you may have trouble selling the property.
3. Change in Design or Materials: Making changes to the approved design or using different materials without notifying building control can lead to problems. Any alterations should be communicated and approved to ensure compliance. Ensure all steel engineering specifications are communicated to building control so they can verify the steel complies with regulations.
4. Build Over Agreements A build over agreement in the UK is a formal arrangement between a property owner and the local water authority to allow construction over or near public sewers. It is necessary to prevent potential harm to the sewer system's integrity and accessibility, and Building Control will notify the water authority of the work you’re intending to carry out. The property owner must seek approval from the water authority and adhere to their specific guidelines during the build. The agreement also outlines responsibilities for maintenance and future access, serving as a crucial step to avoid adverse impacts on the public sewer network during construction.
5. Competent Person Scheme: The Competent Person Scheme is a UK government initiative allowing skilled professionals to self-certify that their work complies with building regulations without seeking approval from local authorities. Individuals or companies accredited under the scheme demonstrate competence in specific building tasks, such as electrical or gas installations. Make sure the contractors you are using are members of the scheme where they need to be.
6. Fire Safety: Make sure Building Control guidelines and standards implemented to ensure structures adhere to safety measures in the event of a fire. These regulations cover aspects such as the installation of fire-resistant materials, proper design of escape routes, and the inclusion of fire detection and suppression systems. Have you thought about how the occupants will escape in the event of fire?
7. Energy Efficiency Requirements: As the planet becomes more eco-conscious regulations are implemented to ensure buildings are efficient, and building control are the ones who ensure their compliance. The regulations are changing regularly so it is important to keep your finger on the pulse of change and work with your building control officer to make sure you’re adhering to the guidelines.
8. Keep Extensive Records and an Eye for Detail: Maintain regular communication with your BC officer and make sure you know what they need to see and when, then make sure they see it. Maintain all paperwork and also take regular photographic records of work as it progresses. If something is missed during an in-person inspection it may be possible provide photographic evidence of compliance; particularly if an aspect is now no longer visible/accessible, though don’t rely on this. Communicate with your BC officer!
9. Guiding not mandating: Remember the Building Control published guidance does not mandate the “how”; only the “what” – so it might tell you what standards something needs to meet, but not how you meet them…with what design, materials etc. Communicate with your building control officer and get their approval whenever you’re in any doubt.
10. Completion Certificate: Another basic fundamental – make sure you have your sign-off from the authorities – this certificate verifies that the work complies with building regulations and is critical to resale of the property.
It's crucial to engage with building control early in the planning process and regularly throughout the project. Seek professional advice, and ensure ongoing communication to avoid potential pitfalls in the construction process.
We hope this helps you and your projects. Get involved in the conversation - let us know what you think!
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