Building Control in the City fulfils the
purpose of being both a duty and a service. Our duty is to oversee
the City of London's function as set out in
the Building Act 1984 and other
relevant building legislation. Our aim is to provide a quality
service to our customers and to work alongside designers and
contractors to achieve compliance with the regulations by giving
guidance and assistance whenever possible to overcome problem
areas.
As part of that duty we will ensure that all
building work complies with the appropriate standards, that the
health and safety of people in or about buildings is not
compromised and that the welfare and convenience of
people with disabilities are catered
for satisfactorily.
Building Regulations are minimum standards laid
down by Parliament to secure the health and safety of people in or
about buildings. They are about the design and construction of
buildings as well as the provisions of services, fittings and
equipment in buildings. They are also concerned with the
conservation of fuel and power and access and facilities for people
with disabilities. The additional fire risks associated with larger
buildings are addressed by the requirements of the
London Building Acts.
Historical
background
The origins of building control date back as far as 1666, when the
Great Fire of London raged through the City causing widespread
devastation. Literally out of the ashes of that catastrophe
Parliament passed in 1667 an Act for the rebuilding of London. The
Act set out to prevent a re-occurrence of the disaster and for the
first time surveyors or discreet men as they were known, were
appointed to ensure its requirements were not violated.
In the nineteenth century the District
Surveyors Association was formed with a function of ensuring the
uniformity and interpretation of building legislation throughout
London, a role which continues to this day. Building Control today
plays a major role in the realisation of a safe and healthy built
environment and is a fundamental part of the overall success of
modern construction within the City of London.
London District Surveyors' Association
The latest news and information on the
association, including a list of the current
publications, can be found at the
LDSA website.
Investors in People
We have been assessed and judged to meet the
Investors in People standard. To maintain this
standard, regular two-way reviews of staff development,
achievement, training and recognition will continue. Coupled with
this, resources are continually reviewed so that client, and
industry, requirements are met.
Useful links
For other useful links to aid your development process click here
to see our Development contacts.