Quality control: Inspection schedule

Building Control Inspections in Northern Ireland (NI)

  • Mandatory Inspections:

    • Local authority arranges a set number of mandatory inspections.
    • You must notify the building control officer when they need to visit the site.
  • Optional Additional Inspections:

    • You can request additional inspections for work you’re unsure about.
    • Officers will try to accommodate these requests.
  • Role of Building Control Officers:

    • Their responsibility is limited to ensuring compliance with building regulations.
    • They may be more familiar with standard methods and materials; consult a professional architectural designer if using unconventional techniques.
  • Costs:

    • The only cost is the statutory application fees.
  • Scope of Inspections:

    • Inspections cover works related to the consent to discharge domestic effluent.
    • They do not check for compliance with planning approval conditions.

Building Control Inspections in Republic of Ireland (ROI)

  • No Independent Inspection System:

    • There is no independent system to check compliance with building regulations, despite regulatory changes.
  • Rare Inspections:

    • Local authority building control officers do not typically inspect self-build sites unless they choose to do a rare spot inspection.
  • Risk-Based Inspections:

    • Building control officers assess which projects should undergo risk-based inspections, typically covering 12 to 15% of valid building units.

Self-Certification Routes in ROI

  • Opt-In Route:

    • You must hire an Assigned Certifier.
    • Certifier will upload labor and material certificates to the Building Control Management System.
    • The cost is typically over €10,000 due to administrative fees.
    • The certifier arranges an inspection schedule.
  • Opt-Out Route:

    • You still need a qualified professional (not your builder) to oversee key build stages.
    • This person will certify the build at the end, providing a certificate of completion for conveyancing purposes.
    • The cost for overseeing the build is around €4,000, which includes construction drawings and certification.

Additional Considerations

  • Department of Housing Templates:

    • Professionals overseeing your project may use templates for Assigned Certifiers.
  • Structural Warranty:

    • If you have a structural warranty, the provider will issue an inspection schedule.
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Information on building your own home is for general purposes only and may not be accurate or up-to-date. Always consult with licensed professionals before making any decisions. We are not responsible for any errors or outcomes based on this content.

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