In the UK, if you are undertaking an extension, loft conversion, structural alterations, or certain refurbishment projects, you will almost always need Building Regulations approval. This is where Building Control comes in. Their role is to ensure the job meets safety standards.
Checks by an inspector who visits the site at various stages - each check is to ensure the safety of the structure, insulation levels are correct, no flood risk, etc. They will check what has been built to date, ask questions where necessary and may want photos of covered-in objects (such as the steel beams before they are boxed in). For advice from Exeter Builders, visit a site like https://www.silverferndevelopments.co.uk/exeter-builders/
When do inspections happen?
These change from project to project, but some common places for inspection include:
Start/excavation after foundations are bottomed but before concrete is placed
Foundations
DPC (damp proof course): This helps to stop rising damp
Drainage – Pre-backfill of trenches to verify levels and grades
Steel (RSJs), floor joist, roof structure
Insulation – walls, floors, and roofs before they are hidden within the build.
Information on fire safety: evacuation plans, fire doors, alarms (if any)
Final: when work is completed
Who arranges it?
While this is what your builder typically does for you, it never hurts to have it in writing. Missed inspections can also lead to delays because if they are covered over, in some cases, you can no longer sign that stage off.
What you get at the end
You will get a certificate of completion upon the final sign-off.