Category: Blog

The Legal and Financial Consequences of Non-Compliance with Building Regulations

Building regulations are essential for ensuring that construction projects are safe, accessible, and energy-efficient. They protect both the people using the buildings and the environment. Non-compliance with these regulations can severely impact your legal standing and financial stability.

At All Building Control, we understand the challenges and complexities surrounding compliance. Our experts are here to guide you through the process to ensure that your projects remain on track and avoid the significant consequences of non-compliance.

What Are Building Regulations and Why Are They Important?

Building regulations cover various aspects of construction, including structural integrity, fire safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility. These regulations are legally required and apply to new builds, extensions, and specific use changes. Failing to adhere to these standards can lead to serious legal and financial issues for the parties responsible.

Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

1. Fines and Penalties

One of the most immediate consequences of non-compliance is the imposition of fines. Local authorities can issue financial penalties for works that lack proper approval or do not meet required standards. Depending on the severity of the breach, these fines can range from hundreds to thousands of pounds.

2. Enforcement Notices

If your building work does not comply with regulations, the local authority may issue an enforcement notice demanding that the issues be corrected. This process can be costly and time-consuming, requiring demolition or structural alterations. Failure to follow the notice could lead to further legal action or fines.

3. Difficulty in Selling or Letting Property

Non-compliant work can also make it harder to sell or lease a property. Potential buyers or tenants may be wary of legal complications or the costs of rectifying any issues. Sometimes, a property may be deemed unsellable until compliance is achieved.

4. Civil Liability

Non-compliance can result in civil liability if the building causes damage or harm. You could be liable for damages if structural issues or safety violations lead to accidents. Compensation claims from tenants, neighbours, or other affected parties may arise in some cases.

Financial Consequences of Non-Compliance

1. Project Delays and Increased Costs

If your building work does not meet regulatory standards, delays can occur while corrections are made. These delays can increase project costs due to additional labour, materials, and professional fees. Missed deadlines may also lead to compensation claims from clients or contractors.

2. Retrofitting or Demolition Costs

Consequently, non-compliant work may need demolishing or completely redesigned to meet regulations. This can be expensive, especially if significant work has already been completed. Retrofitting non-compliant structures is costly and could ruin a project’s budget.

3. Higher Insurance Premiums

Insurance companies often raise premiums for projects that involve non-compliance. In some cases, insurers may even refuse coverage, exposing the project financially.

4. Damage to Reputation

A failure to meet building regulations can tarnish your reputation within the industry. If clients or investors perceive you as unreliable or negligent, securing future projects can become difficult. A damaged reputation may lead to lost business opportunities and reduced profitability.

How to Avoid the Consequences of Non-Compliance

To avoid these serious legal and financial consequences, ensure your projects fully comply with building regulations. Work with experts who are familiar with the latest rules and best practices. Conduct regular inspections and seek professional advice if you are unsure about any aspect of your project.

At All Building Control, we offer building regulation consultancy services to guide you through every step of the process. Our team can advise on new builds and alterations or even help you assess previously completed work to ensure compliance.

By staying compliant, you can avoid the costly mistakes of non-compliance and safeguard the success of your project.

London Build Expo 2023

All Building Control spent two days at the prestigious London Build Expo 2023, where our team delved into a realm of innovation, collaboration, and industry insights. As we navigated the expansive venue, we actively participated in seminars, engaging with thought leaders, and staying abreast of the latest trends shaping the future of construction.

Our journey at the expo extended beyond the confines of traditional exhibits. We seized the opportunity to connect with product manufacturers, exploring cutting-edge solutions and forging partnerships that align with our commitment to excellence. From advanced systems to sustainable building materials, the expo provided a glimpse into the future of construction, and All Building Control was at the forefront of this exploration.

A standout moment was Maja’s participation in the UK’s biggest women’s networking event, the Women in Construction Ambassadors. As a representative of All Building Control, Maja engaged in networking with other industry professionals. Her presence at this influential event underscored our commitment to breaking gender barriers and fostering an inclusive environment.

Visiting the London Build Expo 2023 was more than just a routine engagement for All Building Control; it was a transformative experience. We left with a wealth of knowledge, valuable connections, and a reinforced commitment to shaping the future of construction through innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity. The journey continues, and All Building Control remains at the forefront of driving positive change in the construction industry. See you at the London Build Expo 2024!

chartered surveyors in Dulwich

An Ultimate Guide To Understand The Different Types Of Survey

Are you buying a house or just want to get a survey done to be sure of the structural strength of your property? People are often confused about choosing the right type of survey. RICS surveys typically aim to keep a check on the property’s health. It involves detailed checking of a property’s structure and condition. You must know what you are buying to save your money. This can also help you with the final negotiation. Hiring reputed and experienced chartered surveyors in St. Johns Wood can help you with different surveys. Let’s dive deeper into the subject below in this blog.

Different Types of Survey

Condition Survey (Level 1)

You can consider a Condition Survey if you are buying a new property in good condition. This basic RICS survey provides you with basic information about building elements. It identifies issues by inspecting the property’s condition and security. Please note this survey isn’t recommended for older buildings.

HomeBuyer Survey (Level 2)

Thai survey is the most popular as it is ideal for inspecting conventionally-built modern homes in decent condition. A HomeBuyer survey involves the inspection of all the building parts that are readily accessible. Chartered surveyors will look into the serious defects that may require expensive repairs. We will also provide you with the relevant information on repairs and maintenance. At the end of the survey, you will have a detailed report stating every aspect that has been inspected. You can make an informed decision with this.

Full Buildings Survey (Level 3)

This survey is the gold standard inspection which involves an in-depth examination of both visible and hidden issues in a property. The surveyor will inspect from furniture to loft and even under carpets. So you will have a detailed knowledge of the property’s condition and structural integrity. The report will also contain whether smoke alarms and security systems are working properly or need replacement. They will also guide you for the recommended repairs and will provide you with an estimated cost for the same. This type of survey is recommended for a large or older property.

Specific Defect Surveys

As the name suggests, this type of survey doesn’t involve an inspection of the entire building but just a particular part of it. For example, it can focus on timber or damp, inspection of non-standard construction, cracking subsidence etc. An expert surveyor will help you understand the actual issues and guide you to fix them.

All Building Control Certification Limited is a reputed Corporate Approved Inspector. We provide a wide range of surveys and other consultancy services for building regulation compliance, party walls etc. Book an appointment with us today if you’re looking for chartered surveyors in St. Johns Wood.

Chartered Surveyors St Johns wood

Who is a Chartered Surveyor, and What is Their Job?

The role of a chartered surveyor is diverse. The most basic job of a chartered surveyor concerns the land, property and construction process. They must examine the buildings for existing and probable structural defects and provide expert advice on the environmental issues that might be present in the construction process. Chartered surveyors are also required to take an in-depth look at the conditions of commercial properties.

However, many people need clarification about the daily activities of a chartered surveyor. Why should you hire one? This question lingers in the mind of many.

Chartered surveyors in the city of London are involved in various projects, from planning, high-tech housing to taking care of public health conditions.

Are you planning to hire a chartered surveyor? Here’s a brief on the things that you can expect from them.

What does a chartered surveyor do?

It isn’t easy to describe a surveyor’s job in one line. Some of the common responsibilities of a professional chartered surveyor are listed below:

They conduct a complete examination of the buildings to check for structural defects.
They manage the contractual relationship between the parties involved in a construction project.
They help to provide the valuation of the property and the other types of related assets.
They also assess the specific parts of the land, boundaries of the property and both natural and man-made features of the building.
They provide an accurate report of the financial position of the construction project regarding the way the finances can be managed and controlled effectively.
They conduct an assessment of the building to identify the necessary alterations and repairs that must be done to the property.

Why hire a chartered surveyor?

A trained and certified chartered surveyor is an individual who has a marked quality of assurance and professionalism in terms of the work they do. By hiring a chartered surveyor, you can appoint someone who can provide sufficient guidance on the land, property and building construction process.

You can expect an unbiased, fair and transparent report from the chartered surveyor. Moreover, by hiring a chartered surveyor, you can expect technical knowledge and market assessment of your property. If you’re searching for a chartered surveyor, then make sure you hire an RICS-certified surveyor for the job. They will provide independent advice to help you make proper property-buying decisions.

Contact All Building Control for hiring qualified and experienced chartered surveyors in City Of London. Along with core statutory building regulations we offer a variety of services tailored to meet all your needs.

Chartered Surveyors City Of London

Things to Know About Chartered Surveyor Inspection in New Builds

Buying a property with your hard-earned money is a life investment. Along with checking the valuable fittings, you must take care in viewing the overall living conditions of the house.

The Need to Survey a New Build:

To check the vital components of a new build, investing in a property survey may seem like additional trouble where you have to devote an extra day to inspect the property. The service provided by a chartered surveyor in the City of London can save you a lot on maintenance and upkeep in the long run.

Why Hire a Chartered Surveyor to Inspect New Builds?

In this blog, you can find a detailed take on hiring a qualified property surveyor for new builds. A foolproof inspection will help you get more information about the property’s living conditions and other important aspects.

The homebuyers trust the chartered surveyors for their sharp observation skills. Even in a new build, a surveyor will be able to find several issues. Some of these are discussed here:

Loose socket plates
Plastic frames scratched or cut by sharp-edged tools
Wobbly, loose toilet fixtures
Leaky taps and shower outlets
Incorrectly installed ironmongery
Improperly installed fencing or barriers

By checking these factors, a surveyor provides a report to the homeowner. They have to view the reports and decide about the final purchase.

Along with checking the factors for comfortable living, it is vital to check the safety features of the newly built property. The assistance of the property surveyor can come in handy in this field as well. The safety implications checked by the inspector are:

Checking the connection of the household drainage system
Condition of plaster and rendering on the walls
Fittings of the doors, windows and other installations
Connection of the waste pipes and vents
Installations to resist dampness inside the property
Condition of the staircase and other installations

You can proceed with the final purchase if your home surveyor provides a satisfactory report. Otherwise, it is better to give it a second thought and have a conversation with your broker.

Are you looking for the service of well-known chartered surveyors in Highgate? Do not delay contacting a reliable source like All Building Control. We are a private sector building inspection service. Our team comprises expert surveyors who have proper knowledge of this field. For more information about our work, you can visit our website today.

Chartered Surveyors City Of London Chartered Surveyors Highgate

Structural Problems that Chartered Surveyors May find in Staircases

When you call for a professional house survey, you must check some important structural requirements. House surveyors are particular about potential safety hazards in a property. There is a chance that your report may not get positive approval due to some issues.

The Importance of Stair Safety:

Stairs are one of the important installations in a residential property that many house surveyors take note of. As a homeowner, you should remain prepared before your inspection and check all the issues with your staircases. This can be from the placement of the stairs to any missing installations.

Issues with Staircases that Chartered Surveyors May Spot:

Before the survey begins, checking that your stairs are built according to the safety regulations is important. Otherwise, you may face problems with your hired professional chartered surveyors in the City of London. We discuss more about this in the following part.

Issues with Handrails and Balustrades: In some cases, handrails and balustrades may have a weak lateral restraint. It refers to the effort you have to exert to push the railings sideways. It is a crucial part that a house surveyor may check. It is specifically important to strengthen the railings if you have a family member with locomotion problems.

Presence of Asbestos: This is a common structural issue that surveyors can find in properties established between the 1950s and 80s. The stairs are lined with traces of asbestos underneath. In case your stair lining contains asbestos, you have to remove it without delay. This is a must if you buy or sell a property built in that specific period.

Altered Stairs: In the case of extended properties, an altered staircase can create some problems. The treads should have the same depth, and the steps should have an equal height. The stairs should also have a proper landing place, the absence of which could create some problems with the building surveyor.

Issues with Repaired Stairs: This is an important aspect you must check in your property. If there is a modification to your house’s staircase, you must ensure it has no problem with nails or patchy wood. The tread of the stairs should also be in optimal condition.

These are some important requirements for the stairs of a property that you should check. Ensure contacting a professional chartered surveyor in the City of London for proper evaluation. You can visit All Building Control, one of the reliable names in this field. Our company comprises a team of experienced house surveyors who can check all parts of your property.

Chartered Surveyors City Of London

Few Things that Can Affect Your Building Inspection Process

Whether you buy or sell a property, getting it inspected by reliable home inspectors is necessary. They are the experts who observe every part of your property and give the nod to proceed with the transaction process. They can point out the shortcomings or issues in the property as well.

Ensure Proper Safety in Your Home:

To ensure the safety and other vital features of a property, you should keep your property in good shape. In several cases, people may not get the clearance due to some inconsistency in specific parts of the home. The professional building inspectors in Notting Hill check every part of a property before providing a clearance.

Things that Can Fail the Building Inspection Process:

Here are some vital parts of a property that you should check properly before going through the building inspection process. You may not be able to get a clearance if these are not in good shape.

Electrical Issues: This is one of the most common issues why property owners may fail to get a clearance from the home inspector. Faulty wiring and panel issues are a few problems. These may cause a sellers to get a red flag from the inspector. To ensure that it does not bother you, check all the wirings and connections before calling in a building inspector.

Pest Problems: A property infected by pests and termites is a big setback for a property seller. It can be a pressing problem for all types of homes, irrespective of the materials. In wooden homes, the inspector may look for signs of wood rot. Make your home pest free before a home inspection routine.

The Roof: It is one of the major elements that professionals check during a home inspection. The buyer may fail to get a certificate from the inspector if there is a leaky or damaged roof. Replacing the roof before an inspection may be a costly factor but most homeowners would opt for a roof repair before the property inspection procedure to help ensure that they get clearance from the inspection.

As a homeowner, you should be wary of these issues on your property. Give attention to these problems and ensure that your property is in great shape before the home inspector comes in. If you want to get quality assistance from Notting Hill building consultancy Ltd, you can contact All Building Control. We are an independent private-sector building inspection team. If you want to learn more about us, visit our website today.

Building Inspectors Notting Hill

Why Have A Professional Chartered Survey Before Selling?

Selling your property can be a time-consuming and stressful process, especially in a bustling city like London. However, engaging the services of professional Chartered Surveyors in Highgate can make the process smoother and more efficient.

They can provide you with an accurate valuation, advice on building regulations, professional marketing advice, identification of defects, and assistance with legal matters.

5 Reasons to Invest in Chartered Survey Process

Here are five reasons why you should consider looking for a Chartered Surveyor before selling your property in London.

1. Accurate Property Valuation: Chartered Surveyors have extensive experience and expertise in the property market, which allows them to provide an accurate valuation of your property. This is important in ensuring that you receive the best possible price for your property. They use various methods to determine the value of your property, including a market appraisal and a detailed inspection of the property.

2. Knowledge of Building Regulations: Licensed and experienced building surveyors are also experts in building regulations and can advise you on any building work that may need to be carried out to comply with current regulations. This can save you time and money by avoiding costly delays in the sale process.

3. Professional Marketing Advice: Certified experts can provide you with professional marketing advice on how to present your property in the best possible light. They can advise on the type of marketing materials that would be most effective for your property, such as floor plans, photographs, and videos.

4. Identification of Defects: Professional building surveyors can identify any defects in your property that may affect its value or saleability. By identifying these defects early on, you can address them before the sale process begins, which can help to avoid any delays or setbacks in the sale.

5. Handling of Legal Matters: These experts are well-versed in the legal aspects of property transactions and can help you navigate the complex legal process involved in selling your property. They can advise you on the various legal documents that need to be prepared, such as contracts, transfer deeds, and mortgages.

By having a chartered surveyor on your side, you can be confident that you are making the best decisions for your property and maximising your chances of a successful sale.

Work with the Experts

All Building Control is a Corporate Approved Inspector licensed by the Government (via the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to undertake plan checking and site inspections and issue you Building Regulations Approval and Completion Certificates. For all your queries related to Chartered Surveyors in and around Highgate, please get in touch with us.

Chartered Surveyors Highgate

Key Factors to Consider in Professional Chartered Surveyors before Hiring the Service

Chartered Surveyors are highly-skilled, trained and competent property professionals. They are hired to obtain unbiased and specialist advice on various property issues. Their building consultancy will always help you make vital decisions regarding purchasing a new property or renovating the existing ones.

When it comes to hiring professional Chartered Surveyors in Kensington for your property needs, there are certain factors that you should consider before making your final decision.

Four Vital Things to Check in Chartered Surveyors in Kensington

Here are four key things to check in a Chartered Surveyor before hiring their service:

1. Certifications and Qualifications: It is important to ensure that the surveyor you are considering has all of the necessary credentials, such as being an RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) accredited or possessing a similar level of qualification. This will ensure that they have the proper qualifications and experience to carry out your surveying requirements efficiently and accurately.

2. Experience: An experienced Chartered Surveyor can provide valuable advice on any residential or commercial property transaction, including valuations, Party Wall surveys and other legal matters. In addition, they may also offer advice on land use and development opportunities. Therefore, it is important to find out how many years of experience the surveyor holds and what type of projects they have already undertaken successfully.

3. Local Knowledge: Chartered Surveyors who specialise in local properties are ideal because they possess an intimate knowledge of local market conditions. This will enable them to give accurate valuation advice and identify potential problems with the property. It is, therefore, crucial when selecting a surveyor that you select one who knows the local area well as well as has to experience with particular types of properties in that region.

4. Fees & Costs: As with any type of contract work or purchase, it is important to check the fees associated with employing a Chartered Surveyor’s services ahead of time so that you can budget accordingly and avoid unexpected costs later down the line. Ensure that you take into account not only their hourly rate but also additional charges such as mileage or expenses related to travel if needed during the process so that any surprises can be avoided when paying for services rendered at the completion of project deliverables being met.

All Building Control is a Corporate Approved Inspector licensed by the Government (via the Construction Industry Council (CIC). Along with domestic projects, our experts are always available for commercial properties in and around Kensington.

Please get in touch with us for more information.

Chartered Surveyors Kensington

6 Reasons to Hire Chartered Surveyors in Kensington

6 Key Benefits of Hiring Chartered Surveyors in Kensington

When it comes time to buy or sell a property, you can choose many professionals to help you through the process. However, if you want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your property is in good hands, hiring a Chartered Surveyor is the best decision you can make. These experts can make things easier for you when you need to make an informed and wise decision regarding a property’s future.

Let’s see how professional Chartered Surveyors in Kensington can help you with property deals.

Benefits of Working with Professional Chartered Surveyors

1. Expertise: A Chartered Surveyor is a professional with extensive training and years of experience in surveying properties. This means they will be able to identify any potential issues with your property and provide expert advice on how to deal with them.

2. Knowledge of the Local Area: A certified surveyor will have an in-depth knowledge of the local area, including which areas are more desirable and which have a higher or lower risk of flooding. This information can be invaluable when deciding where to buy or sell a property.

3. Professionalism: A Building Surveyor will always act professionally and in your best interests. They will keep you up to date with progress reports, answer any questions you may have, and work hard to get the best possible outcome for you.

4. Thorough Inspection: These experts will conduct a thorough inspection of your property, looking at everything from the roof to the foundations. This allows them to identify any potential problems early on and take steps to fix them before they become too costly or difficult to repair.

5. Comprehensive Report: Once the inspection is complete, the Chartered Surveyor will compile a detailed report outlining their findings. This report can be very useful when it comes time to negotiate with potential buyers or sellers or when applying for a loan.

6. Peace of Mind: Ultimately, one of the main benefits of hiring a Chartered Surveyor is peace of mind. Knowing that someone is looking out for your best interests and has your property’s best interests at heart can be incredibly reassuring, especially during what can be a stressful time.

At All Building Control, we provide our clients with comprehensive building survey reports that will help them to make crucial decisions about a certain property. We are a Corporate Approved Inspector licensed by the Government (via the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to undertake plan checking and site inspections and issue you Building Regulations Approval and Completion Certificates.

Please get in touch with us to get a free quote and other relevant information.