When Do I Need Building Control?
Are you planning to build or renovate your property? Have you ever wondered when and why building control is necessary? Whether it’s a small extension or a major renovation project, complying with building regulations is crucial for ensuring safety, functionality, and comfort. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different scenarios that require building control approval and highlight the benefits of obtaining it. So buckle up and get ready to learn everything you need to know about building control!
What is Building Control?
Building control is the process of ensuring buildings are properly constructed, maintained and operated in a safe and responsible manner. The purpose of building control is to protect the public, workers, operators and the environment from potential harm.
The first step in building control is verifying that a permit is required for any construction, alteration or repairs. Once a permit is issued, building control will monitor the project to ensure it follows all requirements of the permit. If there are any issues with the project, building control will work with the contractor to address them.
Building control also ensures that structures are properly maintained. This includes inspecting structures for signs of wear and tear, checking fire safety precautions and investigating any reports of structural failure. In cases where damage has occurred, building control may require repairs to be made before occupancy can resume.
Building control also oversees operations of buildings in order to ensure they are conducted responsibly. This includes enforcing fire codes and health and safety regulations, issuing permits for special events and monitoring conditions such as noise levels. If necessary, building Control may require changes to be made to ensure safe conditions are maintained.
When Do I Need Building Control?
When you need building control, you’ll want to contact your local authority. There are a few things you should keep in mind when determining whether or not you need their help.
The first thing to consider is the type of structure you have. If it’s a commercial building, for example, then you’ll likely need someone from the municipality to come and inspect it on a regular basis. This is because commercial buildings are often subject to tougher safety requirements than residential structures.
If your structure is a home, on the other hand, there may not be as many regulatory requirements placed on it. That doesn’t mean that you don’t need building control; rather, it means that your municipality may only require basic inspections from time to time.
Another factor to take into account is the age of your structure. If it’s relatively new construction, for instance, then there may be less of a need for regular inspections from the municipality. However, if your structure is older or has been damaged in some way, then you’ll likely want them involved sooner rather than later.
Finally, consider how big your building is and what kind of activities happen inside of it. If there are large gatherings happening on a regular basis or if there are high-risk activities occurring inside of the building, then you’ll likely want building control involved right away. Otherwise, you could find yourself dealing with hazardous materials spills or dangerous fires in the future.
Types of Building Control
Building control is the process of ensuring that buildings comply with the relevant building regulations and codes. There are three main types of building control:
1. Regulatory requirements: These are specific requirements set out in legislation, such as the UK Building Regulations.
2. The Code: This is a compilation of best practice guidelines from various sources, developed by the British Standards Institution (BSI). It sets out minimum standards for construction and maintenance of buildings.
3. Guidance: This provides guidance on how to comply with the Code or other regulatory requirements.
How to Request Building Control
If you are a property owner, business owner or architect designing a structure, it is important to know when you need building control. Building control is a government process that ensures the construction and use of structures comply with local codes and regulations.
There are three main types of building control: municipal, state and federal. Municipal building control is overseen by municipalities, such as cities and counties. State building control is regulated by state departments of transportation (DOTs), such as the California Highway Patrol (CHP) in California. Federal building control is regulated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which oversees federal agencies such as HUD-funded housing complexes.[1]
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) offers these tips for determining if you need building control:[2]
If the proposed structure will have an impact on public health or safety, then you likely need municipal or state building control.
If the proposed structure will have an economic impact on your neighborhood, such as a large shopping mall, then you may need federal or DOT building control.
If the proposed structure will be located in an historic district, then you may need both municipal and historical preservation controls.
If there are any ambiguities about whether or not you will require building control, consult with your municipality’s code enforcement officer or your state department of transportation (DOT). Their staff can help determine if required documents such as permits are already
What happens After I Request Building Control?
If you need building control, you will need to provide some information to the department in order for them to assess your needs. This information may include but is not limited to: the type of building, the number of occupants, the budget, and any specific concerns that you have. Once building control has been granted, they will work with you and your contractor to ensure that your project meets all applicable codes and regulations.
