Building Regulations

[pussyfoot]

I'm sorry if this appears twice but I'm not very computer minded & I may not have explained properly before!

I have just had a new small window added to my property and the company I used charged me £144 for building regs as I was told this is the normal rate. I was told that as it was such a small job building regs are quite happy to receive a photo of the work to show all regs have been adheared to rather than visiting personally. Is this correct & should I receive a certificate of sorts for any future sale.

Many thanks.

[The Builder]

For some reason, Building Regs fees do vary from area to area, but that figure is in the right range for a "Building Notice".

What winds me up in these cases, is that it's the builder's responsibility to liaise with Building Control, organise inspections, and receive the Completion Certificate. Why else would he be charging you for the Council's fees?

I use photos occasionally where I'm about to cover up an alteration forever, thus making inspections impossible. I would only ever do this after first asking my local Inspector if he agrees. In your case, an Inspector would be able visit and see the work easily.

Is there some nefarious reason for the builder not wanting it looked at?

The photo issue is irrelevant, Puss. The builder seems to be getting you to do some of the legwork that he can't be bothered with. Very unprofessional.

Incidentally, was a new opening created to fit the window?

[pussyfoot]

Thank you for replying Builder though I'm still a little confused. Yes, it was a new opening created for the window. Should I be provided with a certificate in case I want to move in the future?
If I had to pay £144 for regulations then can I insist I have an inspection and a certificate to show the work was done correctly?

Thank you

[The Builder]

Structural alterations and a new window? A Completion Certificate should definitely be issued to you.

If you get no sense from your builder, then ring your District Council and ask for "Building Control". Ask to speak to the Inspector who deals with your area. He should be able to tell you if a Building Notice has been applied for.

As you know, it's important when you come to sell.

[The Builder]

........ Also, IF an application has been made, he'll arrange the necessary inspection.

[pussyfoot]

Thank you so much Builder! That's really helpful I'll contact the local council and find out more from there.

Thank you for helping me!
Angela

[pussyfoot]

Thank you Builder for your helpful reply, but can you also help me a little more. I am still waiting for a certificate for the work that has been carried
out then I was told that as the window fitter is FENSA registered I should'nt have to pay any extra. I'm so confused. The window fitter said I did'nt need planning permission but I would need to pay for building regs.