Changes to Building Regulations are now been enforced. These regulations deliver the recommendations for a new, more stringent regime for the design and construction of building work carried out in all buildings.
Understanding and complying with updated building regulations is crucial for homeowners.
Failure to adhere to regulations can result in legal consequences, insurance issues, or difficulties in selling your property in the future. On the other hand, compliance ensures that your home is safe, sustainable, and efficient, enhancing its value and livability.
What exactly does it mean for you?
You need to provide your local building regulations team with ample notice that work is going to be begin on site. An initial site meeting between you and building control may take place where you will discuss the proposed home extension project, outlining your requirements, objectives, and any specific considerations.
Following the consultation, you are required to submit detailed plans and documentation for the proposed home extension to the building control department. Plans should include architectural drawings, structural calculations, and specifications detailing materials, construction methods, and compliance with relevant regulations as well as a location map of the proposed project. You may be required to work with your architect or designer to make required revisions and adjustments based on the feedback received once these documents are reviewed.
During the construction phase, building control officers conduct site inspections at key stages of the project. Inspections ensure that construction work is carried out in accordance with approved plans, regulations, and safety standards. An experienced Contractor will ensure these checks are done on time and make any necessary changes to ensure that the stage is signed off.
Now, this is the most important change.....
You are required to have an official sign off from the Principal Designer (in most cases your Architect), the Principal Contractor (in most cases the building firm in charge of the checks and the build stage of the project) and from The Client (you).
Each 'dutyholder' must provide a compliance statement for their responsible work. Dutyholders include but are not limited to the:
Client
Principal Designer
Principal Contractor
The completion certificate cannot be issued unless:
all the necessary inspections have been carried out and found to be satisfactory
the notice of completion has been filled in and returned
all pre-completion information and commissioning certificates requested have been provided
Upon completion of the home extension, a final inspection is conducted by building control officers to verify compliance with approved plans and regulations. If satisfied, a completion certificate or building control certificate is issued to the client, confirming that the home extension meets all necessary requirements. This can only happen if all the necessary checks have taken place throughout the build.
Only Hire Reputable Organisations!
Only work with experienced architects, experienced building organisations and building control officers who can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
At Andrews Extensions, we will work alongside Building Control at every step of the way ensuring that all the necessary checks take place on site as and when they are needed. We are a reputable firm who will ensure that your building control checks are completed on time and any changes necessary are made before the next stage begins ensuring you have successful sign off at the end of your project.