Building approval is needed for a variety of work such as conversions, electrical work, or extensions.
Is building control the same as building regulations? The difference between building regulations and building control is this; building regulations are the building standards, and building control is the function of enforcing those standards. It is the job of an Approved Inspector such as Building Consents Ltd to assess whether or not a project complies with building regulations
Following building regulations ensures the work carried out not only complies with the local authority but it means it is safe for anyone in the premises.
A building inspector is needed to check the work and ensure it complies with building regulations, so that it can be approved.
Without approval you may have to undo the work or pay a fine.
Our private building control inspectors can apply for approval for you and ensure the process runs smoothly. Note that the proper name for what we do isn't building control inspectors, but that’s what everyone calls us! Our proper name is Approved Inspectors.
They will undertake regular checks on site and ensure it is completed within budget. They can relieve you of a huge amount of stress and hassle which you may have applying yourself.
It is important to choose the right private building control inspector who is registered with a professional body and has experience, as the owner of the property is liable for ensuring it conforms to building regulations.
If you would like to talk to our private building control inspectors about your project, contact us today.
When do I need a private building control inspector?
A private building control inspector can advise you on the type of approval you need to carry out work to your home or business.
A building inspector will apply for approval and ensure your project meets the relevant regulations.
We discuss when you need a building inspector, what their role is, and how to choose the best one for you.
What is a private building inspector?
A private building inspector is an approved inspector who you can hire to apply for the appropriate regulations.
This takes the stress of you as they will inform the council and deal with the process for you.
A private building inspector can advise you and check your paperwork before it is submitted.
What is the difference between a building control officer and an approved inspector?
The difference between a building control officer and an approved inspector is that an approved inspector is a private sector inspector whereas a building control officer is from a local authority.
What is the difference between an approved inspector and a local council building control inspector?
An approved inspector and a local council building control inspector will follow the same rules and regulations.
The only difference is that an approved inspector, who is private, will apply for the regulations for you and oversee the work.
Private building control will also give ‘initial notice’ to your local authority to inform them about the project and they will issue the completion certificate to your local authority.
A building control inspector will not do this, and you will have to apply for the regulations yourself.
Can I get a private building inspector?
Yes, you can get your own private building inspector to oversee your work and apply for the appropriate regulations on your behalf.
Are building inspectors and surveyors the same?
Building inspectors and surveyors carry out different roles.
A building inspector will ensure the smooth running and quality assurance on site whereas a surveyor is responsible for helping with design and carrying out a detailed evaluation of a property’s condition.
Can you change building control inspector?
It’s not a good idea to change your building control inspector once the work has started.
Should I use private building control?
A private building control means the inspector will deal with everything for you from checking the quality of the work onsite, to ensuring regulations are upheld, and applying for building regulations.
How to choose the right approved inspector
To find the right building inspector you can simply check for qualified private inspectors in your area.
Experience
Ensure any building inspector you choose has relevant experience in the type of project you want to undertake.
If you are a public business or private household, it is best to choose someone who has experience of your type of project.
Qualifications
Choose a building inspector that has an HNC, HND, or degree in a related topic.
Accredited
Check that your building inspector is a member of a professional body such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the Chartered Institute of Building Engineers (CABE), or The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
This means they are regularly assessed and are up to date with regulations.
The logos for these institutions should be easy to find on their website but if it’s not, ask them.
Reviews
Check the reviews of potential private building inspectors to ensure they have customers who have been happy with their work.
If you can’t find these, ask for references. Established businesses will be happy to demonstrate they have lots of happy customers.
Once you have done your due diligence, simply contact them to book your inspection.
Building inspector process
At Building Consents we undertake a thorough process to ensure the safety and compliance of your project.
- We will check the design plans from the architect.
- We will undertake a thorough plan check to ensure you meet the requirements and if necessary, consult with the fire and water authorities.
- We will notify the local council about the project called ‘initial notice’. After this you can start the project 5 working days after.
- We will then inspect the building on site which we will do on a regular basis.
- When the project is complete, we will issue a completion certificate.