Page content section :
Building Control
Site inspections
Inspections of the building works are carried out a number of stages as
works progress on site to assess compliance with the Building Regulations.
- To apply for an inspection telephone (01273) 263222
or complete our on-line site inspection request form (can be submitted on-line, or printed and returned)
In particular the Local Authority needs to be informed at the following key stages of the development :
Commencement (statutory)
Notification of a commencement should be given in writing at least 48 hours prior to the works starting. This is an opportunity for the Building Control officer to generally discuss the project and to remind the builder of any conditions there might be on the application. It also provides the opportunity to check that the site and the proposal is as shown on any submitted plans.
Foundations excavation (statutory)
The Building Control officer will use this opportunity to ensure that the ground upon which the building will be built is satisfactory. To ensure this, the officer will consider all or some of the following :
- The bearing capacity of the ground
- Proximity and depth of any drains and manholes
- Depth of existing foundation
- Proximity of any trees or recently removed trees
- Whether or not the building is on made up ground
Foundations concrete (statutory)
This is to ascertain that the placement and the concrete are correct. It is generally more useful for the blockwork to be built up to damp proof course level and inspected before backfilling, so the position of the walls on the foundation can be checked.
Oversite (statutory)
This inspection is to determine the suitability of the hardcore used, sand blinding to protect the damp proof membrane. The dpm is checked for its thickness and the taping of any joints and sufficient laps with new and existing damp proof courses. The floor insulation is also inspected at this stage for tight joints and turned up edges.
Damp Proof Course (statutory)
The damp proof course (dpc) will be checked to ensure suitability and width of material, laps at joints, lapped over existing dpc, clear cavity internally. The dpc arrangements at the junction with the existing wall will also be checked.
Laying of drains (statutory)
It is important that this inspection is carried out before the drains are backfilled. The items checked on this inspection include :
- Suitability of material used
- Fall and line of the drain
- Material used for bed and surround
- Access points
Floor joists (non-statutory)
The size, grade and the centre of the joists will be checked together with the bearings, lateral restraint strapping and herringbone strutting.
Roof timbers (non-statutory)
The size, grade and the centres of the timbers will be checked together with the lateral restraint, gable, wall plate strapping and herringbone strutting.
Drains test (statutory)
A satisfactory air or water test of all drainage, above or below ground is required. It is helpful if the test can be setup and ready for the Building Control officer when he calls.
Occupation (statutory)
When a building is occupied before completion the Local Authority should be notified.
Completion (statutory)
This is the inspection for which notification is often forgotten. The inspection checks such items as :
- Ventilation to rooms and roof voids
- Waste details
- Roof coverings
- Fire precautions and requirements
- Safety glazing
- Staircase details
On the satisfactory completion of building work a completion certificate will be issued. Completion certificates are important documents and should be kept safe as solicitors and surveyors undertaking future property transactions may require to see them.
Note : As from Monday 18th May 2009 following the formation of a partnership between Adur and Worthing the Building Control team will be relocating to Portland House in Worthing. The team will continue to deliver the Building Control Service within the Adur District but will now be supported by colleagues from the Worthing teams. For more information and contact details see the attached :
