Careers in Building Control
What is the work like?
Building Control Surveyors make sure that the Building Regulations and other legislation are observed in the design and construction stages of new and altered buildings. They are also involved in most property extensions and conversions.
Building Regulations are national minimum standards for construction. They:
- ensure the health and safety of people in and around all types of building
- provide for energy conservation
- make sure buildings are accessible (which includes access for the disabled).
Building Control Surveyors (BCSs) need to know and interpret the regulations. They can be employed either in the Public or Private sector since although Building Control is a statutory function for local authorities it operates in a competitive market. Private Sector BCSs may be known as Approved Inspectors and Local Authority Building Control Surveyors are also known as District Surveyors or Building Inspectors.
Before construction gets under way, BCSs check applicants' plans, drawings and specifications to ensure that they meet the regulations. Local Authority Surveyors have powers to reject plans that fail to meet the Building Regulations, but they have to be positive in their approach, advising on acceptable solutions which will meet legal requirements. There is great scope for innovation and ingenuity, with a flexible approach needed to balance customer satisfaction with public safety.
Once the work begins, BCSs make site visits at different stages of construction to ensure that it is being properly carried out. They:
- carry out regular inspections of the building and building methods
- inspect and test foundations, drainage works etc
- take samples of new building materials and assess their suitability
- maintain records of their visits
- issue completion certificates when the work has been carried out satisfactorily.
During the course of the construction, if building control surveyors believe that a building no longer conforms to regulations, they take action to remedy the situation which may ultimately result in prosecution of the owner or builder.
The work involves liaison with members of the public, elected members, other construction professionals and organisations such as the fire service and environmental health departments.
Other areas of work may involve licensing, safety at sports grounds, control of demolition and street naming and numbering. Occasionally, building control surveyors may be called out in emergencies to inspect buildings that have been damaged by fire, accidents or other hazards, for safety purposes.
Further information
To read more about a career in building control, select from the list below:
For a discussion about a career in local authority building control, contact your local authority, which can be found by using the 'Find Your Local Authority' facility on the menu to the right.
Email: info@labc.uk.com
Telephone: 0844 561 6136
Use our feedback form or find key contact details and numbers.
