Our Procedure - Six Steps To Compliance
Step 1 - Preliminary Advice
In order to fully deliver the benefits of working with a Corporate Approved Inspector. RBC is always keen to be involved as early as is pragmatically possible in the design process. Whether it’s at the concept design stage, during the tender preparation phase or immediately after contract award, RBC will provide concise and effective advice with respect to the basic philosophy of the Building Regulations. At these early stages in the process, we will prioritise the issues that could prove problematic later on and cause additional expense and delay if not addressed, e.g. Part B - Fire Safety and Part M – Access and Facilities for the Disabled. Consequently the project risk is significantly reduced and, once the project starts in earnest, progress can be accelerated.
Step 2 - The Application & Initial Notice
When you submit the formal application to RBC, this will be via the Application Pack consisting of the Project Information Sheet, the Initial Notice and accompanying documents as indicated in the Application Pack. Applications can be made electronically or via hard copy. RBC will then complete the Initial Notice and submit it to the relevant local authority. This must be done five days or more before construction starts on site and is the only involvement that the local authority need have.
Step 3 - Plans Appraisal
We will conduct a detailed plans examination to ensure that the substantive requirements of the Building Regulations and other allied legislation are complied with. This plan appraisal is usually completed within a maximum of ten days from the date of receipt of plans.
We employ a proactive approach to satisfying Building Regulations and will discuss any contraventions with the design team. It is the principle of the regulations that should be met and not necessarily the detailed guidance. RBC acts in a negotiating role between the client’s needs and the requirements of the Regulations.
Step 4 - Consultations
RBC will consider the fire safety proposals and when these are deemed acceptable will consult with the relevant Fire authority. Any comments resulting from the consultation will be conveyed on to the client and design team. The consultation process usually takes around three weeks but on larger more complex schemes RBC will have initiated informal communication prior to the formal application. RBC will also undertake any other statutory consultations that necessary from the perspective of the Building Regulations.
Step 5 - Site Inspections
Site inspections will be carried out at agreed intervals to ensure that the construction is in accordance with the agreed design and Building Regulations. The number and timing of inspections is based upon the assessment of each project to ensure compliance with the Regulations whilst allowing the contractor the freedom to build. We aim to use a single surveyor for the site inspection work. This will create a sound working relationship; building the trust and understanding with site personnel that allows a more efficient service.
After each site inspection a written report is issued to the specified members of the team. This report indicates the site status at the time of the inspection, identifies what has been inspected and highlights any queries we may have. It is designed to ensure that all parties are kept clearly informed during the construction phase and gives an early warning of any non-compliance on site so that timely action can be taken to avert any problems.
Step 6 - Final Certificate
Upon satisfactory completion of building works, a Final Certificate will be issued. This certificate is copied to the client, the local authority and the fire authority.