Building control is one of the crucial steps Essex homeowners must consider when building or planning renovation work on their property. The primary role of building control is to ensure that the structure complies with the local building regulations.
The regulations encompass various aspects, including safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and stability. The primary goal is to ensure the occupants feel safe and the structure isn’t a safety hazard to your neighbors.
In this guide, we take you through the top reasons why building control in Essex matters for homeowners planning a new project.
Legal Responsibilities of Homeowners
Compliance with local building regulations is a legal requirement in Essex. As mentioned, these regulations are designed to make certain the project meets all the safety and technical standards as required by law.
One thing to note is that building control Essex should not be confused with planning permission. These two are entirely different, and one cannot stand for the other. You need both, especially in Essex, where local building regulations vary depending on which zone you are in.
However, not all projects require building regulations approval. It is your duty as a project manager or homeowner to determine whether you need approval from your local authority. Failure to comply with building regulations is an offence, and it can lead to hefty fines.
Local Knowledge and Essex Considerations
Building control in Essex varies depending on your location. Planning and building control rules for those living in conservation zones are different from those in listed or heritage buildings. This is why we insist on working with an expert from your local authority.
Working with an inspector from your local building authority will give in-depth guidance on what is required based on local building control regulations. In the long run, it will help you avoid delays or issues with building inspectors and code enforcement during construction.
The Inspection and Approval Process
The inspection and approval process includes steps from application to getting your certificate after the project has been completed. It all starts by determining whether your project requires a building regulation application.
If your construction or renovation project requires approval, you must submit a building control application. This application can be made to either the local authority or an approved inspector. Upon approval, you will get an inspection service plan detailing all key stages requiring inspection as work progresses.
At each stage, an inspector from the local building authority will visit your site and assess compliance with the building regulations. If everything goes well and your project ticks all the boxes, you will receive a completion certificate from your local Essex building control body.
Building Control in Essex: Enforcement and Penalties
Local authorities have the power to enforce building regulations as stipulated under building control in Essex. Carrying out construction work without approval can lead to criminal charges, and if found guilty, you can face hefty fines or time behind bars.
Your local building authority can also enforce stop notices, requiring you to halt the project until corrections are made or approval is acquired.
Overall, failing to comply with building control in Essex can make the project costlier. Moreover, it can affect future transactions related to selling the property or acquiring insurance since, in most cases, these will require completion certificates from your local building authority.
