Site inspections

The following are the stages at which notification to the Council should be given.

Stage 1 Commencement

Before work commences on site you should inform the Building Control Service that work is about to begin

Stage 2 Foundation excavated

When the foundations have been excavated and before they are concreted, an inspection must be made to ensure that the depth and make-up of the ground at the base of the foundations is suitable to carry the load from the new building. We also check that any services and any other influences on the foundation do not have a detrimental impact on the completed building.

Stage 3 Damp-proof course

Once the damp-proof course is laid on a solid or cavity wall, an inspection is needed to ensure that it has been placed in the correct position and that it will fullfil its purpose, to prevent rising damp in the building.

Stage 4 Ground floor oversite (before concreting)

When the ground floor oversite is prepared and ready for concreting, it should be inspected. Other types of floor construction are required to be inspected before they are covered up.

Stage 5 Structural timbers, steelwork, or concrete before covering up

Floor joists and steel beams should be inspected before encasing/covering them up in order to assess the adequacy of the sizes used.

Stage 6 Drains before backfilling

All drain runs laid for foul or surface water must be inspected before they are backfilled, in order to ensure that they have adequate falls, are assessable, the correct capacity is provided, and that adequate protection to the pipework is achieved.

Stage 7 Drains testing

When the drainage has been covered a supervised test to ensure a watertight system should be undertaken.

Stage 8 Roof structure (before tiling)

Roof joists should be inspected before encasing/covering them up in order to assess the adequacy of the sizes used.

Stage 9 Occupied before completion (where relevant)

An inspection will be carried out if the building is to be occupied before it can be considered complete for Building Regulations.

Stage 10 Work Completed

This inspection is carried out once all work is completed. If the work is found to be satisfactory and all other relevant inspections have been made a Completion Certificate for the work will be issued.

Most house sales require a Completion Certificate for any works undertaken to which Building Regulations Approval apply.

To find out more or to request a site inspection, please contact us.

Page last reviewed 8 Apr 2008