Inspections required for domestic work
You can use the guide below to help ensure you contact Building Control at the appropriate stages of your project.
The table outlines the typical inspection stages for domestic building work. Please note that the commencement stage must be reached to ensure that the application does not lapse in accordance with Regulation 46A.
To help your inspection run smoothly, you may also find the following guides useful:
How to Prepare for an Inspection – practical steps to help ensure work is ready for inspection.
Tips for a Smooth Inspection – helpful advice to avoid delays and unnecessary revisit charges.
There is also information about What Inspectors Look for at Key Stages – an overview of the main checks typically carried out during inspections. Please note that this is intended as general guidance only, as inspection requirements may vary depending on the type and complexity of the project.
| Stage of work | Extensions | Loft Conversions | Internal Alterations | Garage / Garage Conversions | New Bathrooms | New Windows | New Dwellings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Inspection To inspect the first stage of work and confirm target commencement date. | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Statutory Commencement* Please complete notification form | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Excavations To ensure foundations are excavated to a satisfactory depth | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|||
| Oversite / Damp proof membrane / Tanking To check preparation for oversite concrete | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
||||
| Damp proof course To ensure dpc has been laid correctly | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
||||
| Drainage Drains laid and before covering | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|||
| Drainage Testing of drains for water tightness after covering | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|||
| Before covering any structural timbers, steelwork or concrete | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|
| Roof/Floor Insulation To check correct thickness/installation of insulation | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
|||
| Before covering electrical installation | There is no need to call us to inspect electrical installation provided that the installer is suitably registered under a Competent Person Scheme and is able to register their works. Where a Part P competent electrician is not used, please contact Building Control as a separate Building Notice will be required for this type of work. | ||||||
| Completion of work Final inpection to be notified to us within 5 days of completion. To notify us, please complete our completion form | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
What Inspectors Look for at Key Stages
The information provided in relation to this inspection type is intended as general guidance only and should not be considered a definitive or comprehensive interpretation of the Building Regulations. Each project is assessed on a case-by-case basis, and specific requirements may vary depending on the nature and circumstances of the work. Compliance will be determined with regard to the individual details of each proposal.
