HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN INSPECTION
Preparing properly helps avoid delays and ensures your inspection can be completed in one visit.
Inspections are carried out at key stages, not every stage, and it is the responsibility of the person carrying out the work to notify Building Control when each stage is ready for inspection.
- Inspections are normally carried out in person on site.
- During the visit, the inspector explains what they are checking and discusses any issues directly with those present.
- The visit is followed up with a written site inspection record that will be sent to you by email.
Because inspections are in person, being on site and taking part is an important part of the process. It helps everyone clearly understand what has been checked, any concerns raised, and what needs to happen next.
In limited circumstances, a Registered Building Inspector may determine that an inspection can be completed remotely using a video call or photographs, where this is considered suitable. This must be discussed and agreed with the Registered Building Inspector.
TIPS FOR A SMOOTH INSPECTION
Book promptly
We aim to offer prompt inspections, but high demand periods can limit same‑day availability.
You will receive a confirmation email to confirm that your site inspection has been booked.
One of our Registered Building Inspectors will be assigned on the day of the visit. We are not able to confirm the inspector’s name in advance.
You can ask for a morning or afternoon visit, and we will do our best to meet your request. Once the inspector’s schedule is confirmed for the day, the surveyor can, if you ask, call ahead to give an approximate arrival time.
Be on site — Ensure you and/or your builder is present to answer questions.
Our inspectors carry out inspections between 10:00am and 2:30pm each working day.
As we cannot give an exact arrival time, please make sure that someone is on site between these hours to meet the inspector.
Fix issues promptly — and rebook as soon as you’re ready to proceed. Delays may increase costs.
Ensure Works Are Ready and Accessible
Inspectors must be able to clearly see the work in question. Before the visit:
- Do not cover up any work (e.g., concrete, insulation, drainage).
- Clear access routes to inspection areas.
- Ensure the site is safe, tidy, and properly supported.
Make Sure the Work Matches Approved Plans
Keep documentation on hand, including plans, calculations, and material specs.
Common reasons for inspection issues include:
- Incorrect foundation depth
- Unapproved changes to steel sizes or structural design
- Wrong insulation type or insufficient thickness
- Altered drainage layout
If changes are necessary, they must be approved before the work continues.
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.
Booking an Inspection
You can book, rearrange, or cancel inspections through our website:
Our surveyors are here to help guide your project from start to finish, ensuring a safe, compliant and high‑quality build. You will be advised by them of any specific information that they require in addition to these rough guidelines.
Our staged inspections help prevent costly errors, delays, or the need to open up completed work later.
Key Inspection Stages
- Commencement – when work starts
- Foundation inspection – excavation and ground conditions
- Drainage inspection – before backfilling
- Oversite / ground floor construction
- Structural elements – such as steel beams, roof construction
- Insulation checks
- Completion inspection – when all work is finished
Your project may require more or fewer stages depending on its nature. Our inspection schedule outlines exactly which stages apply to your build.
