Building inspections

To ensure that your building works comply with building regulations and any other relevant legislation, we will carry out inspections during construction.

Following the deposit of your building notice or full plans application you may even be able to start your project after 48 hours. You can notify us by email to building.control@chorley.gov.uk.

Book an inspection

You can book an inspection or make a payment by telephoning 01257 515162 during office hours (Monday to Friday 8:45am to 5pm). 24 hours notice is required to book an inspection.

Inspections required

The number and type of inspections that are required depend on the type of work. Minor works usually need fewer inspections than complicated projects. However, the inspections may include:

• excavation of foundations before concreting
• Damp Proof Course when laid
• site concrete or floor slab (before being laid)
• drains prior to back filling
• pre-plaster inspection
• completion of work

Most of the above refer to works that will be covered up below the ground but are not necessarily the only ones the inspector will make. Some projects require additional inspections specific to the work such as reinforcement of foundations and floor slabs, fire protection to the structure etc. We advise you inform your inspector prior to plastering to enable the work to be inspected before covering up (pre-plaster inspection).

When the work is completed let us know so we can carry out a completion inspection.

Providing the work is in accordance with the regulations a Completion Certificate will be issued. This is an important document to you as it provides evidence that your project complies with building regulations. It is also advisable to obtain the certificate before settling the final account with your builder. The certificate may be requested by a solicitor if you come to sell your property or wish to raise capital from your property at a later date.

Work not covered by building regulations

Not all aspects of building work are covered by the building regulations for example:

• standard of workmanship
• finishing and decoration
• water and central heating installations (except boilers, flues and heating controls)
• external works, fences, boundary walls paths and driveways (except disabled access)
• installation of gas appliances (they must be installed by an approved installer)