What is Building Control?

Building Regulations are the minimum standards established by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) to govern the design and construction of buildings. The regulations  consider the well-being and safety of building occupants, energy and water efficiency, as well as accessibility and amenities for individuals with disabilities.

The responsibility for ensuring the development complies with Building Regulations lies ultimately with the property or landowner and occupier. This is separate to any requirements for planning permission or listed building consent that you may need. 

The task of ensuring compliance with the Building Regulations, as reasonably ascertainable, is carried out by a Building Control Body (Local Authority Building Control or Approved Inspectors). Building Control Inspectors employed by Dorset Council follow appropriate professional standards and practices in accordance with their obligations.

Dorset Council Building Control Inspectors provide an impartial third-party evaluation and take reasonable measures within their professional expertise and care to ensure where possible, compliance with the relevant aspects of the Building Regulations.

Responsibility for compliance with the Building Regulations and Approved Documents stays with the person carrying out the building work, the designers, and the property owners. 

During the construction process, our Inspectors will carry out several visits to the site. These inspections should be carried out at specific stages, such as foundation, damp proofing, and project completion. Their purpose is to assess, although not guarantee, compliance with the Building Regulations.

The responsibility of arranging these inspections lies with the builder, property or landowner and occupier. 

When works are complete you need will need to arrange a final inspection before a completion certificate can be issued. Building Control have no continuing control of the project or works once a Completion Certificate has been issued and the work is complete.

The responsibilities of building control do not include:

• ensuring the quality of the construction work.
• acting as a ‘clerk of works’ overseeing each stage of the construction process.
• addressing non-Building Regulation related matters such as the final appearance and aesthetics of the project.
• offering contractual protection between the parties involved in the design and construction of the project.
• guaranteeing compliance with the Building Regulations. Even with the involvement of a Building Control Body, the person conducting the work remains obligated to ensure compliance.

Check out LABC Front Door for Practical advice on home improvements and building regulations.

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