STAGE 1 - SUBMISSION OF THE APPLICATION
The application should be deposited with the Building Control Department of your local Council. This should include:
(i) Completed application form
(ii) Appropriate fee
(iii) Location map and detailed site plan – two copies
(iv) Construction plans and technical specification – two copies
STAGE 2 - ASSESSMENT OF YOUR PROPOSAL
The plans are assessed for compliance with Building Regulations and any required revisions notified to the agent who may then submit amended plans. When these are received and all details are satisfactory your plans can be approved. The Approval Certificate and one set of approved plans will be returned.
STAGE 3 - COMMENCEMENT OF WORK & SITE INSPECTIONS
When an application has been made with the appropriate fee the builder may commence work. Before doing so, the Building Control Department must be notified so that the Building Control Surveyors can visit the site. They will carry out inspections from commencement to completion. There is a legal obligation on any person causing works to be carried out to advise the Building Control Department at various stages so that inspections may be undertaken. Building Control will undertake any other inspections as are deemed necessary. If the builder commences work prior to approval of the plans, he proceeds entirely at his own risk.
After the first inspection has been carried out, the inspection fee is due.
STAGE 4 - COMPLETION
When the works are satisfactorily completed Building Control will forward a Completion Certificate to the applicant. The Completion Certificate and the plan Approval Certificate are important legal documents. They should be stored safely, perhaps with the deeds of the property. Without these it may be difficult to secure finance or effect a sale in the conveyancing process.
If you or your agent wish to talk to a Building Control Surveyor about your scheme before submitting it for assessment, you can do so by contacting the Building Control office where your plans will be lodged. You will find the contact details in this Directory.
