Building Control Inspections

[SunsetZed]

Over the next couple of months work will start on our extension (build thread to follow) and the builder tells me that he'll take care of the building control side of things. Just as a guide at what times should I expect building control inspections. I'm guessing that the first one would be when the foundations are laid before we come out of the ground?

[Muncher]

First one will be when the foundations have been dug and not yet filled.

[vxsmithers]

take photos, lots of photos.

Mine were slow to come round and changed person several times. There is no consistency and they will not believe what the last inspector said.

Maybe I had a bad experience, but my quick snaps saved me a world of pain when the second inspector wouldn't believe a soak away was dug, nor did they believe how big it was or its construction when the first had seen it and signed it off. luckily I had taken photos of everything.

There were other issues with consistency of opinion on what should and should not be done between the different people - a photo can't help you there though!

It should just be a tick box exercise...

[Busa mav]

If you are submitting to Wokingham or West Berks, the inspectors are excellent, call them before 10 and you will get an inspection that day.

Leave it to the builder to liaise with building control, but I would have a weekly meet with the builder and ask what stages have been inspected and when does he want to come back.

Don't let them backfill any drainage , foundations or steelwork before the inspector has seen AND is happy with it.

Unlike private inspectors, the LA guy is working for you, so if the builder starts moaning about the guy and trying to put it over that he is the enemy , be wary..

[MJG280]

Take photos of progress every day. I did and it was very handy for working out where wiring was and lots of other bits and pieces.

[SunsetZed]

Thanks all for your replies, great to know that the first inspection will be when the foundations are dug and not filled.

I'll certainly confirm with the builder every week on when the inspections are and then will report back on here for the experts to confirm it sounds reasonable.

[Lesgrandepotato]

You'll probably find its an easier relationship with the builder if you trust him a little more?