Site inspections

Your building control surveyor will carry-out various site inspections depending on the type of the works being undertaken.

These inspections are to ensure that the construction is being undertaken in accordance with the building regulations.

It is a statutory requirement that you notify us of commencement of works at least 48 hours before you begin.

This first site inspection is an opportunity for your surveyor to generally discuss the project with the builder, including any conditions that may apply to the application.

Allows ground conditions to be checked.

Your surveyor 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

This inspection is to determine the suitability of the hardcore used to ensure it is well compacted and the provision of sand blinding, if required.

The damp proof membrane is checked for thickness, and sufficient overlap between new and existing damp proof courses.

Floor insulation may also be inspected at this stage.

All new drainage is inspected before it is covered.

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

Wherever possible the above and below ground drainage systems are checked for air or water tightness.

The size, grade and the centre of the joists are checked together with the lateral restraint strapping and herringbone strutting.

The size, grade and the centre of the timbers/ trusses are checked together with the lateral resistant strapping, herringbone strutting and wind bracing.

We will generally try to inspect the insulation prior to covering to ensure that the correct thickness and type is installed.

If the building will be occupied before the works are complete, notify your surveyor.

This is the final inspection and checks that all works are complete as well as:

• ventilation to rooms and roof voids
• waste details
• roof coverings
• fire precautions and requirements
• safety glazing
• staircase details
• commissioning certificate for smoke detection and emergency lighting, where applicable

On the satisfactory completion of the building work a completion certificate will be issued.

We would strongly recommend that before you make any final payment to your builder, you ensure that the work has been inspected and approved by your surveyor and that you have a copy of the completion certificate we have issued.