Book an inspection

For most projects we will carry out a number of site inspections. This is to ensure works are being completed in accordance with the building regulations. Depending on the project, some of these can be undertaken at the same time.

It is yours or your builder’s responsibility to contact us at each stage to allow an inspection to be carried out. Failure to do so may result in problems for issue of completion certificate.

How to book

To book an inspection or if you want advice from your surveyor before you start any building works call 01622 602701.

What happens next

You must tell us at least 48 hours before you begin any works, this will be your first inspection once work has started.

When you request an inspection, we aim to complete this by the next working day, if the request has been made before 4pm. If you call us before 10am where possible we may be able to visit on the same day, however this is dependant upon workloads for that day. We are unable to give an exact time for the inspection, but if you request morning or afternoon, we will try to accommodate this.

Site visits we will or may check

Commencement

This first site inspection allows us to discuss the project with the builder, including any conditions that may apply to the application and checking that the site is as shown.

Excavation for foundation

We strongly advise that you do not request a concrete delivery for foundations until the site visit has been carried out and the excavations are deemed acceptable.

This allows ground conditions to be checked. We will consider all or some of the following:

• how deep the existing foundation is
• what capacity the ground can bear
• how close and deep drains and manholes are
• how close trees are or were if recently removed
• whether the building is on made up ground
• if Southern Water approval is required, as you may be building over a public foul sewer

Drains

All new drainage is inspected before it is covered. In order to check the following:

• suitability of material used
• fall and line of the drain
• material used for bed and surrounding
• access points

Covering a DPC (damp proof course) or casting a floor slab

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.

Structural elements

We check the size, grade, centre, lateral restraint strapping and herringbone strutting of the floor joists and roof timbers. We also check the size of any steel beams and their bearing capacity.

Completion

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

• ventilation to rooms and roof voids
• waste
• roof coverings and insulation
• fire precautions and requirements
• safety glazing
• staircase details

In addition, we will also check that any conditions have been cleared, certificates as required have been provided and any other detail that has been requested during the build by the surveyor have been submitted.

Records of site inspection will be retained for 15 years after completion. For larger residential or commercial projects, a record of the inspections may be kept on site as a record for both parties.

Completion certificate

We will give you a completion certificate when you finish the work. It confirms your work complies with building regulations. Keep the certificate in a safe place as you will need it if you want to sell the property.