How we can help

  • Local Knowledge - We have extensive knowledge of local conditions and problems.
  • Advice - We offer advice and assistance from design to completion.
  • One Stop Shop - We provide close links with other Council experts and Fire Safety Officers.
  • Same Day Service - We will carry out site inspections on the same day if the request is made to the Council before 10am.
  • After Hours Efficiency - Too busy to stop work and phone. You can access this website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and download any important documents or application forms. "Bookmark" it to your "favourites".
  • Impartiality - We are completely impartial. We aim to give a prompt, efficient and courteous service.
  • Peace of Mind - We will issue a completion certificate if all statutory inspections have been carried out and the works comply with the Building Regulations.

In the process of development, whether it is the erection of a new building, extending or altering an existing building, or changing the way a building is used, you will normally need to seek Building Regulation approval and possibly Planning approval.  

Planning approval establishes that the building or proposed use of land is acceptable in principle. Building Regulations specifically relate to the technical aspects of construction and cover such matters as structural stability, fire resistance, means of escape, disabled access, weather resistance, thermal insulation, drainage etc....

Building Control is the part of Environmental and Planning Services which ensures that buildings are constructed and  altered so that they comply with the Building Regulations, that dangerous structures are made safe and that demolitions are done in as safe a manner as possible.

The purpose of the regulations is to protect the health and safety of people in or around buildings. They also deal with conserving energy and with access and facilities for disabled people.

Building Control Surveyors manage the Building Regulations. Our highly qualified and experienced teams of Building Control Surveyors examine and comment on plans for developments and inspect work that is in progress. Their wide knowledge of materials and building methods is available to you at all stages of the building process.

Before you carry out building work, you or your agent (i.e. architect, builder or surveyor) must advise the Building Control Services by submitting Full Plans for approval or through the Building Notice procedure.