Building Act 1984

Part II E+W Supervision of Building Work etc. otherwise than by [F1 building control authorities]

Textual Amendments

F1 Words in Pt. 2 heading substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 39; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xii) (with reg. 4); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

Supervision of plans and work by [F2 registered building control approvers] E+W

Textual Amendments

F2 Words in s. 47 cross-heading substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 3; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

47 Giving and acceptance of initial notice. E+W

(1) If—

(a) a notice in the prescribed form [F3 relating to work that is not higher-risk building work] (called an “initial notice”) is given jointly to a local authority by a person intending to carry out [F4 the] work and a person who is [F5 a registered building control approver] in relation to that work,

(b) the initial notice is accompanied by such plans of the work as may be prescribed,

F6 (c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . and

(d) the initial notice is accepted by the local authority,

then, so long as the initial notice continues in force, the [F7 registered building control approver] by whom the notice was given shall undertake such functions as may be prescribed with respect to the inspection of plans of the work [F8 to which the notice relates], the supervision of that work and the giving [F9 and receiving] of certificates and other notices.

(2) A local authority to whom an initial notice is given—

(a) may not reject the notice except on prescribed grounds, and

(b) shall reject the notice if any of the prescribed grounds exists,

and, in a case where the work to which an inital notice relates is work of such a description that, if [F10 plans of it had been deposited with] [F10 an application for building control approval in respect of it had been made to] the local authority, the authority could, under any enactment, have imposed requirements as a condition of [F11 passing the plans] [F11 granting the application], the local authority may impose the like requirements as a condition of accepting the initial notice.

(3) Unless, within the prescribed period, the local authority to whom an initial notice is given give notice of rejection, specifying the ground or grounds in question, to each of the persons by whom the initial notice was give, the authority is conclusively presumed to have accepted the initial notice and to have done so without imposing any such requirements as are referred to in subsection (2) above.

[F12 (3A) Subsection (3) does not apply in prescribed circumstances.]

(4) An initial notice—

(a) comes into force when it is accepted by the local authority, either by notice given within the prescribed period to each of the persons by whom it was given or by virtue of subsection (3) above, and

(b) subject to section 51(3) [F13 below] [F13 (final certificates) and section 53A (lapse of initial notice)], continues in force until—

(i) it is cancelled by a notice under section 52 below, F14 ...

[F15 (ia) it is cancelled, in whole or in part, by a notice under section 52A,]

[F16 (ib) it is cancelled by a notice under section 53D, or]

(ii) the occurrence of, or the expiry of a prescribed period of time beginning on the date of, such event as may be prescribed;

and building regulations may empower a local authority to extend (whether before or after its expiry) any such period of time as is referred to in paragraph (ii) above.

(5) The form prescribed for an initial notice may be such as to require—

(a) either or both of the persons by whom the notice is to be given to furnish information relevant for the purposes of this Act, Part II or IV of the M1 Public Health Act 1936 or any provision of building regulations, and

(b) the [F17 registered building control approver] by whom the notice is to be given to enter into undertakings with respect to [F18 their] performance of any of the functions referred to in subsection (1) above.

F19 (6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F20 (7) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F21 (8) This section is subject to sections 53 and 53B (new initial notices).]

Textual Amendments

F3 Words in s. 47(1)(a) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(1)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with regs. 4, 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F4 Word in s. 47(1)(a) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(1)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with regs. 4, 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F5 Words in s. 47(1)(a) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 4(2)(a); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F6 S. 47(1)(c) omitted (28.7.2022) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 48(2)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 4; S.I. 2022/774, reg. 2

F7 Words in s. 47(1) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 4(2)(b); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F8 Words in s. 47(1) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(2)(a)

F9 Words in s. 47(1) inserted (1.2.2006) by Sustainable and Secure Buildings Act 2004 (c. 22), ss. 8(2), 11(3); S.I. 2006/224, art. 2(c)

F10 Words in s. 47(2) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 40(2)(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiii)

F11 Words in s. 47(2) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 40(2)(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiii)

F12 S. 47(3A) inserted (6.4.2023 except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 40(3); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(w)(ii); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xiii), Sch. para. 16

F13 Words in s. 47(4)(b) substituted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

F14 Word in s. 47(4)(b) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(4)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with reg. 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F15 S. 47(4)(b)(ia) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(4)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with reg. 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F16 S. 47(4)(b)(ib) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(3)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F17 Words in s. 47(5)(b) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 4(3)(a); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F18 Word in s. 47(5)(b) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 4(3)(b); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F19 S. 47(6) omitted (28.7.2022) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 48(2)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 4; S.I. 2022/774, reg. 2

F20 S. 47(7) omitted (28.7.2022) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 48(2)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 4; S.I. 2022/774, reg. 2

F21 S. 47(8) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(3)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C1 S. 47 excluded (21.7.1994) by 1994 c. xv, s. 58(9)

Marginal Citations

M1 1936 c. 49.

48 Effect of initial notice. E+W

(1) So long as an initial notice continues in force, the function of enforcing building regulations that is conferred on a local authority by section 91(2) below is not exercisable in relation to the work [F22 to which the notice relates], and accordingly—

(a) a local authority may not give a notice under section [F23 35B, 35C or] 36(1) above in relation to [F24 that work], and

(b) a local authority may not institute proceedings under section 35 above for a contravention F25 ... that arises out of the carrying out of [F24 that work].

(2) For the purposes of the enactments specified in subsection (3) below—

(a) the giving of an initial notice accompanied by such plans as are referred to in section 47(1)(b) above shall be treated as the [F26 deposit of plans] [F26 making of an application for building control approval],

(b) the plans accompanying an initial notice shall be treated as the [F27 deposited plans] [F27 plans accompanying the application for building control approval],

(c) the acceptance or rejection of an initial notice shall be treated as the [F28 passing or, as the case may be, the rejection of plans] [F28 approval or rejection of the application], and

(d) [F29 the cancellation of an initial notice under section 52(5) below shall be treated as a declaration under section 32 above that the deposit of plans is of no effect.]

[F29 where an initial notice ceases to be in force under section 53A, the application for building control approval (treated by virtue of paragraph (a) as made) is to be treated as if it was not made (and the approval was not given).]

(3) The enactments referred to in subsection (2) above are—

(a) section 36(2) above,

(b) section 36(5) above, in so far as it relates to a notice under section 36(2) above and to non-compliance with any such requirement as is referred to in that subsection,

(c) section 36(6) above, in so far as it relates to a contravention of this Act,

(d) section 18(2) above, and

(e) sections 219 to 225 of the M2 Highways Act 1980 (the advance payments code).

F30 (4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F22 Words in s. 48(1) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(3)(a)

F23 Words in s. 48(1)(a) inserted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(2)(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F24 Words in s. 48(1)(a)(b) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(3)(b)

F25 Words in s. 48(1)(b) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(2)(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F26 Words in s. 48(2)(a) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(3)(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv)

F27 Words in s. 48(2)(b) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(3)(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv)

F28 Words in s. 48(2)(c) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(3)(c); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv)

F29 S. 48(2)(d) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 41(3)(d); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xiv)

F30 S. 48(4) repealed (1.10.2006) by Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/1541), art. 1(3), Sch. 2 para. 33(2), Sch. 4 (with art. 49) (as amended by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Subordinate Provisions Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/484), arts. 1(1), 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C2 S. 48(2) amended by Midland Metro Act 1989 (c. xv), s. 45(10); s. 48(2) extended (27.7.1993) by 1993 c. xv, s. 55(10); s. 48(2) applied (with modifications) (21.7.1994) by 1994 c. xv, s. 58(10)

Marginal Citations

M2 1980 c. 66.

F31 49 Approved inspectors. E+W

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F31 S. 49 omitted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 5; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with regs. 3, 4); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-13)

50 Plans certificates. E+W

[F32 (1) Where an approved inspector—

(a) has inspected plans of the work [F33 to which an initial notice given by him relates].

(b) is satisfied that the plans neither are defective nor show that work carried out in accordance with them would contravene any provision of building regulations, and

(c) has complied with any prescribed requirements as to consultation or otherwise,

he shall, if requested to do so by the person intending to carry out the work, give a certificate in the prescribed form (called a “plans certificate”) to the local authority and to that person.]

[F32 (1) In this Part a “plans certificate” means a certificate by a registered building control approver that the relevant conditions are met in relation to the work specified in the certificate (which must be work in relation to which the approver has given an initial notice).

(1A) The relevant conditions are that the registered building control approver—

(a) has inspected—

(i) full plans of the work, or

(ii) plans of the work that the approver is satisfied are sufficient for the purposes of giving a plans certificate in relation to the work,

(b) is satisfied that the plans are not defective,

(c) is satisfied that work carried out in accordance with the plans would not contravene any provision of building regulations, and

(d) has complied with any prescribed requirements as to consultation or otherwise.

(1B) Subsection (1C) applies if the person intending to carry out work to which an initial notice relates asks the registered building control approver who gave the initial notice to give a plans certificate in respect of the work.

(1C) If the relevant conditions are met, the approver must give a plans certificate to the local authority and the person intending to carry out the work.

(1D) A plans certificate must be in the prescribed form.]

[F34 (2) If a registered building control approver refuses to give a plans certificate on being asked to do so, the person intending to carry out the work may appeal to—

(a) the regulator, in the case of work to be carried out in England;

(b) the Welsh Ministers, in the case of work to be carried out in Wales.]

(4) Building regulations may authorise the giving of an initial notice combined with a [F35 certificate under subsection (1)] [F35 plans certificate] above, and may prescribe a single form for such a combined notice and certificate; and where such a prescribed form is used—

(a) a reference in this Part of this Act to an initial notice or to a plans certificate includes a reference to that form, but

(b) should the form cease to be in force as an ititial notice by virtue of section 47(4) above, nothing in that subsection affects the continuing validity of the form as a plans certificate.

(5) A plans certificate—

(a) may relate either to the whole or to part only of the work [F36 to which the initial notice concerned relates], and

(b) does not have effect unless it is accepted by the local authority to whom it is given.

(6) A local authority to whom a plans certificate is given—

(a) may not reject the certificate except on prescribed grounds, and

(b) shall reject the certificate if any of the prescribed grounds exists.

(7) Unless, within the prescribed period, the local authority to whom a plans certificate is given give notice of rejection, specifying the ground or grounds in question, to—

(a) the [F37 registered building control approver] by whom the certificate was given, and

(b) the other person to whom the [F37 registered building control approver] gave the certificate,

the authority shall be conclusively presumed to have accepted the certificate.

[F38 (7A) Building regulations may make further provision in connection with plans certificates, including in particular provision—

(a) requiring a plans certificate to be given to the local authority in prescribed cases;

(b) about the consequences of failing to comply with such a requirement (for example, for an initial notice to cease to have effect in whole or in part);

(c) requiring a plans certificate stating that the condition in subsection (1A)(a)(ii) is met to include prescribed information about the further plans that the registered building control approver considers need to be provided.]

(8) [F39 If it appears to a local authority by whom a plans certificate has been accepted that the work to which the certificate relates has not been commenced within the period of three years beginning on the date on which the certificate was accepted, the authority may rescind their acceptance of the certificate by notice, specifying the ground or grounds in question, given—

(a) to the approved inspector by whom the certificate was given, and

(b) to the person shown in the initial notice concerned as the person intending to carry out the work.]

Textual Amendments

F32 S. 50(1)-(1D) substituted for s. 50(1) (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 49(2)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(e) (with reg. 3)

F33 Words in s. 50(1)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(4)(a)

F34 S. 50(2) substituted for s. 50(2)(3) (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 6 para. 8; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(o)(i) (with regs. 6, 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xii) (with regs. 3, 4, 7-12)

F35 Words in s. 50(4) substituted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 49(2)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(e) (with reg. 3)

F36 Words in s. 50(5)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(4)(b)

F37 Words in s. 50(7) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 6; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F38 S. 50(7A) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 49(2)(c), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(e) (with reg. 3)

F39 S. 50(8) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(4), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

51 Final certificates. E+W

[F40 (1) Where [F41 a registered building control approver] is satisfied that any work to which an initial notice given by [F42 them] relates has been completed, [F43 they] shall give to the local authority by whom the initial notice was accepted such certificate with respect to the completion of the work and the discharge of [F44 their] functions as may be prescribed (called a “final certificate”).]

(2) Section 50(5) to (7) above has effect in relation to a final certificate as if any reference in those subsections to a plans certificate were a reference to a final certificate.

(3) Where a final certificate—

(a) has been given with respect to any of the work [F45 to which an initial notice relates], and

(b) has been accepted by the local authority concerned,

the initial notice ceases to apply to that work, but section 48(1) above continues to apply, by virtue of this subsection, in relation to that work as if the initial notice continued in force in relation to it.

Textual Amendments

F40 S. 51(1) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art.4

F41 Words in s. 51(1) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 7(a); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F42 Word in s. 51(1) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 7(b); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F43 Word in s. 51(1) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 7(c); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F44 Word in s. 51(1) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 7(d); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F45 Words in s. 51(3)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3 S. 51(1) restricted (prosp.) by Smoke Detectors Act 1991 (c. 37, SIF 15), ss. 5(3), 7(3).

[F46 51A Variation of work to which initial notice relates. E+W

[F47 (1) This section applies where—

(a) it is proposed that the work to which an initial notice relates should be varied, and

(b) the work as varied is not higher-risk building work.]

(2) If—

(a) a notice in the prescribed form (called an “amendment notice”)—

(i) is given to the local authority by whom the initial notice was accepted, and

(ii) is jointly given by the [F48 registered building control approver] who gave the initial notice and by the person shown in the amendment notice as the person intending to carry out the relevant work,

(b) the amendment notice is accompanied by such plans of the proposed variation as may be prescribed,

F49 (c) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(d) the amendment notice—

(i) is accepted by the local authority giving notice of acceptance within the prescribed period to each of the persons by whom the amendment notice was given, or

(ii) is deemed to have been accepted by the local authority by virtue of subsection (5) below,

the work to which the initial notice relates shall be treated as varied as proposed in the amendment notice.

(3) A local authority to whom an amendment notice is given—

(a) may not reject the notice except on prescribed grounds, and—

(b) shall reject the notice if any of the prescribed grounds exists.

(4) Where the relevant work is of such a description that, if [F50 plans of it had been deposited with] [F50 an application for building control approval in respect of it had been made to] the local authority, the authority could, under any enactment, have imposed requirements as a condition of [F51 passing the plans] [F51 granting the application], the local authority may impose the like requirements as a condition of accepting the amendment notice.

(5) Unless, within the prescribed period, the local authority to whom an amendment notice is given give notice of rejection, specifying the ground or grounds in question, to each of the persons by whom the notice was given, the authority is conclusively presumed to have accepted it and to have done so without imposing any such requirements as are referred to in subsection (4) above.

[F52 (5A) Subsection (5) does not apply in prescribed circumstances.]

(6) Section 47(5) shall apply in relation to the form prescribed for an amendment notice as it applies in relation to the form prescribed for an initial notice.

(7) In this section, references to the relevant work are to the work to which the initial notice, as proposed to be varied, relates.]

Textual Amendments

F46 Ss. 51A, 51B, 51C inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 2

F47 S. 51A(1) substituted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with regs. 4, 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F48 Words in s. 51A(2)(a)(ii) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 8; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F49 S. 51A(2)(c) omitted (28.7.2022) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 48(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 4; S.I. 2022/774, reg. 2

F50 Words in s. 51A(4) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 42(2)(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xv)

F51 Words in s. 51A(4) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 42(2)(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xv)

F52 S. 51A(5A) inserted (6.4.2023 except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 42(3); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(w)(iv); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xiii), Sch. para. 17

[F53 51B Effect of amendment notice E+W

(1) For the purposes of the enactments specified in section 48(3) above—

(a) the giving of an amendment notice accompanied by such plans as are referred to in section 51A(2)(b) above shall be treated as the [F54 deposit of plans] [F54 making of an application for building control approval],

(b) the acceptance or rejection of an amendment notice shall be treated as the [F55 passing, or, as the case may be, the rejection of plans] [F55 approval or rejection of the application],

(c) where an initial notice is varied by an amendment notice, the [F56 deposited plans] [F56 plans treated as accompanying the application for building control approval] shall be treated—

(i) as including the plans accompanying the amendment notice, and

(ii) as excluding such of the plans previously treated as [F57 the deposited plans] [F57 accompanying the application] as are superseded by the plans accompanying the amendment notice, and

(d) where an initial notice has been varied by an amendment notice[F58 , the cancellation of the initial notice under section 52(5) below shall be treated as a declaration under section 32 above that the deposit of plans constituted by the giving of the amendment notice is of no effect.] [F58 and the initial notice ceases to be in force under section 53A, the application for building control approval (treated by virtue of paragraph (a) as made) is to be treated as if it was not made (and the approval was not given).]

F59 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F53 Ss. 51A, 51B, 51C inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art.2

F54 Words in s. 51B(1)(a) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 43(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xvi)

F55 Words in s. 51B(1)(b) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 43(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xvi)

F56 Words in s. 51B(1)(c) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 43(c)(i); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xvi)

F57 Words in s. 51B(1)(c)(ii) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 43(c)(ii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xvi)

F58 Words in s. 51B(1)(d) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 43(d); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xvi)

F59 S. 51B(2) repealed (1.10.2006) by Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (S.I. 2005/1541), art. 1(3), Sch. 2 para. 33(3), Sch. 4 (with art. 49) (as amended by The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Subordinate Provisions Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/484), arts. 1(1), 2)

[F60 51C Change of person intending to carry out work E+W

(1) This section applies where it is proposed that the work to which an initial notice relates should be carried out by a different person.

(2) If—

(a) the [F61 registered building control approver] who gave the initial notice, and

(b) the person who now proposes to carry out the work to which the initial notice relates,

jointly give written notice of the proposal to the local authority by whom the initial notice was accepted, the initial notice shall be treated as showing as the person intending to carry out the work to which it relates the person mentioned in the notice under this section.]

Textual Amendments

F60 Ss. 51A, 51B, 51C inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art.2

F61 Words in s. 51C(2)(a) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 9; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

52 Cancellation of initial notice. E+W

(1) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force—

(a) the [F62 registered building control approver] becomes or expects to become unable to carry out (or to continue to carry out) [F63 their] functions with respect to any of the work [F64 to which the initial notice relates],

(b) the [F65 registered building control approver] is of the opinion that any of the work is being so carried out that [F66 they are] unable adequately to carry out [F67 their] functions with respect to it, F68 ...

(c) the [F69 registered building control approver] is of the opinion that there is a contravention of any provision of building regulations with respect to any of that work and the circumstances are as mentioned in subsection (2) below,

[F70 (d) the registered building control approver is given a disciplinary order under section 58U(2)(b) (variation of registration) such that the registered building control approver is no longer able to carry out the registered building control approver’s functions with respect to the work to which the initial notice relates,

(e) the registered building control approver is given a disciplinary order under section 58U(2)(c) (suspension of registration) or an order under section 58V (interim suspension for suspected serious contravention), or

(f) it appears to the registered building control approver that a prescribed circumstance exists,]

the [F71 registered building control approver, or in the case of paragraph (e) the person shown in the initial notice as the registered building control approver, must] cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to the local authority concerned and to the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work.

(2) The circumstances referred to in subsection (1)(c) above are—

(a) that the [F72 registered building control approver] has, in accordance with building regulations, given notice of the contravention to the person carrying out the work [F73 or intending to carry out the work], and

(b) that, within the prescribed period, [F74 the prescribed steps are not taken by the person who, in accordance with building regulations, is required to take them].

[F75 (3) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work to which the notice relates that—

(a) the registered building control approver is no longer willing or able to carry out the registered building control approver’s functions with respect to any of that work, or

(b) a prescribed circumstance exists,

the person must cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to the local authority concerned and, if it is practicable to do so, to the registered building control approver.]

(4) If a person fails without reasonable excuse to give to a local authority a notice that he is required to give by subsection [F76 (1) or] (3) above, he is liable on summary conviction to a fine F77 ....

(5) [F78 If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the local authority by whom the initial notice was accepted that the work to which the initial notice relates has not been commenced within the period of three years beginning on the date on which the initial notice was accepted, the authority may cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given

(a) to the approved inspector by whom the initial notice was given, and

(b) to the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work.]

[F79 (5A) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the local authority concerned that a condition in subsection (5B) is satisfied, the authority must cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to—

(a) the person shown in the initial notice as the registered building control approver, and

(b) the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work.

(5B) The conditions are—

(a) the registered building control approver is given a disciplinary order under section 58U(2)(b) (variation of registration) such that the registered building control approver is no longer able to carry out the registered building control approver’s functions with respect to the work to which the initial notice relates;

(b) the registered building control approver is given a disciplinary order under section 58U(2)(c) (suspension of registration) or an order under section 58V (interim suspension for suspected serious contravention);

(c) the registered building control approver is given a disciplinary order under section 58U(2)(d) (cancellation of registration);

(d) the registered building control approver has their registration cancelled under section 58Z6(2) (serious contravention notices);

(e) a prescribed circumstance exists.]

(6) A notice under subsection (1), (3) or [F80 (5A)] above has the effect of cancelling the initial notice to which it relates with effect from the day on which the notice is given.

[F81 (7) Before cancelling an initial notice under subsection (5A) based on a condition in subsection (5B)(a), (b) or (e), the local authority must—

(a) give the person shown in the initial notice as the registered building control approver a notice in the prescribed form at least seven days before the day on which the initial notice is to be cancelled, and

(b) have regard to any representations made to the local authority during that period.]

Textual Amendments

F62 Words in s. 52(1)(a) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(a)(i); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F63 Word in s. 52(1)(a) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(a)(ii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F64 Words in s. 52(1)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(6)(a)

F65 Words in s. 52(1)(b) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(b)(i); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F66 Words in s. 52(1)(b) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(b)(ii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F67 Word in s. 52(1)(b) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(b)(iii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F68 Word in s. 52(1) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(2)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F69 Words in s. 52(1)(c) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(2)(c); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F70 S. 52(1)(d)-(f) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(2)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F71 Words in s. 52(1) substituted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(2)(c), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F72 Words in s. 52(2)(a) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 10(3); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F73 Words in s. 52(2)(a) inserted (1.2.2006) by Sustainable and Secure Buildings Act 2004 (c. 22), ss. 8(3)(a), 11(3); S.I. 2006/224, art. 2(c)

F74 Words in s. 52(2)(b) substituted (1.2.2006) by Sustainable and Secure Buildings Act 2004 (c. 22), ss. 8(3)(b), 11(3); S.I. 2006/224, art. 2(c)

F75 S. 52(3) substituted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F76 Words in s. 52(4) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(4), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F77 Words in s. 52(4) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 44(2); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xviii); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F78 S. 52(5) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(5), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

F79 S. 52(5A)(5B) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(5), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F80 Word in s. 52(6) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 44(3); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(j)(ii) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F81 S. 52(7) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 50(6), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vi) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

[F82 52A Cancellation of initial notice when work becomes higher-risk building work E+W

(1) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the registered building control approver that some or all of the work has become higher-risk building work, the registered building control approver must, as soon as is reasonably practicable, cancel the relevant part of the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to—

(a) the local authority concerned, and

(b) the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work.

(2) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work that some or all of the work has become higher-risk building work, the person must, as soon as is reasonably practicable, cancel the relevant part of the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to—

(a) the local authority concerned, and

(b) the registered building control approver.

(3) Where a person is required to give a notice under subsection (1) or (2) in relation to higher-risk building work in England, the person must, as soon as is reasonably practicable, give a copy of that notice to the regulator.

(4) If, at a time when an initial notice is in force, it appears to the local authority concerned that some or all of the work has become higher-risk building work, the authority must cancel the relevant part of the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to—

(a) the registered building control approver, and

(b) the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work.

(5) Where a local authority is required to give a notice under subsection (4) in relation to higher-risk building work in England, the local authority must give a copy of that notice to the regulator.

(6) A person commits an offence if they fail without reasonable excuse to—

(a) give to a local authority a notice that the person is required to give by subsection (1) or (2);

(b) give to the regulator a copy of a notice that the person is required to give by subsection (3).

(7) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (6) is liable on summary conviction to a fine.

(8) Where a notice is given under any of subsections (1), (2) and (4) (a “cancellation notice”)—

(a) the part of the initial notice to which the cancellation notice relates is cancelled with effect from the day on which the cancellation notice is given, and

(b) a new initial notice may not be given in relation to any of the work to which the cancelled part of the initial notice related.

(9) In this section “the relevant part of the initial notice” means so much of the initial notice as relates to work that has become higher-risk building work.

Textual Amendments

F82 Ss. 52A, 52B inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with reg. 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

52B Effect of initial notice ceasing to be in force where work becomes higher-risk building work E+W

(1) This section applies where an initial notice ceases to be in force, whether in whole or in part, by virtue of section 47(4)(b)(ia) (higher-risk building work).

(2) If, before the day on which the relevant part of the initial notice ceased to be in force, a final certificate—

(a) was given in respect of part of the work to which the relevant part of the initial notice relates, and

(b) was accepted by the local authority,

the fact that the relevant part of the initial notice has ceased to be in force does not affect the continuing operation of section 51(3) in relation to that part of the work.

(3) The building control authority in relation to any of the uncertified work is—

(a) in England, the regulator, and

(b) in Wales, the relevant local authority (within the meaning of section 121A(2)).

(4) In subsection (3), the “uncertified work” means any of the work—

(a) to which the relevant part of the initial notice relates, and

(b) in respect of which no final certificate has been accepted by the local authority as mentioned in subsection (2).

(5) Sections 91(3) (duties of the regulator) and 121A(1) (meaning of “building control authority”) apply as if, in each case, the reference to section 91ZA or 91ZB were a reference to section 52B, 91ZA or 91ZB.

(6) In any case where this section applies, the reference in subsection (4) of section 36 to the date of the completion of the work in question has effect, in relation to a notice under subsection (1) of that section, as if it were a reference to the date on which the relevant part of the initial notice ceased to be in force.

(7) In this section “the relevant part of the initial notice” means so much of the initial notice as was cancelled by a notice under section 52A (cancellation of initial notice when work becomes higher-risk building work).]

Textual Amendments

F82 Ss. 52A, 52B inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with reg. 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

53 Effect of initial notice ceasing to be in force. E+W

(1) This section applies where an initial notice ceases to be in force by virtue of section 47(4)(b)(i) or (ii) above.

(2) Building regulations may provide that, if—

(a) a plans certificate was given before the day on which the initial notice ceases to be in force, [F83 and]

(b) that certificate was accepted by the local authority (before, on or after that day), [F84 and

(c) before that day, that acceptance was not rescinded by a notice under section 50(8) above,]

then with respect to the work specified in the certificate, such of the functions of a local authority referred to in section 48(1) above as may be prescribed for the purposes of this subsection either are not exercisable or are exercisable only in prescribed circumstances.

(3) If, before the day on which the initial notice ceased to be in force, a final certificate—

(a) was given in respect of part of the work [F85 to which the initial notice relates], and

(b) was accepted by the local authority (before, on or after that day),

the fact that the initial notice has ceased to be in force does not affect the continuing operation of section 51(3) above in relation to that part of the work.

(4) Notwithstanding anything in subsections (2) and (3) above, for the purpose of enabling the local authority to perform the functions referred to in section 48(1) above in relation to any part of the work not specified in a plans certificate or final certificate, as the case may be, building regulations may require the local authority to be provided with plans that relate not only to that part but also to the part to which the certificate in question relates.

[F86 (4A) For the purpose of enabling the local authority to perform the functions referred to in section 48(1), the local authority may by notice require the person shown in the initial notice as the registered building control approver to give the local authority—

(a) any information the authority would have obtained if the authority had performed the function of enforcing building regulations in relation to the work to which the initial notice relates during the period in which the initial notice was in force, and

(b) any other information the local authority may reasonably require.

(4B) Where a person is required to give information under subsection (4A), the information must be given before the end of the prescribed period.

(4C) The person shown in the initial notice as the registered building control approver (the “outgoing approver”) must, before the end of the prescribed period, give the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work to which the initial notice relates—

(a) any information given to a local authority under subsection (4A),

(b) any other information that the outgoing approver obtained or created in relation to the work during the period in which the initial notice was in force, and

(c) any other information that the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work may by notice reasonably require for the purpose of enabling a person other than the outgoing approver to perform the functions referred to in section 48(1) in relation to the work.

(4D) A notice under subsection (4C)(c)—

(a) may only require information to be given in relation to work carried out during the period in which the initial notice was in force;

(b) may require information to be provided in a specified format.]

(5) In any case where this section applies, the reference in subsection (4) of section 36 above to the date of the completion of the work in question has effect, in relation to a notice under subsection (1) of that section, as if it were a reference to the date on which the initial notice ceased to be in force.

(6) [F87 Subject to any provision of building regulations made by virtue of subsection (2) above, if, before the initial notice ceased to be in force, an offence under section 35 above was committed with respect to any of the work [F88 to which that notice relates], proceedings for that offence may be commenced by the local authority at any time within six months beginning with the day on which the function of the local authority referred to in section 48(1) above became exercisable with respect to the provision of building regulations to which the offence relates.]

[F89 (6A) [F90 Subsection (6) above is without prejudice to any ability which, after that function has become exercisable, the local authority may have under section 35A above to commence proceedings for the offence after the end of that period of six months.]]

[F91 (7) A new initial notice relating to any of the work to which the original initial notice related (the “original work”) may be given only if—

(a) in the case of an initial notice that ceases to be in force by virtue of—

(i) being cancelled under section 52(1)(d) or (e),

(ii) being cancelled under section 52(5A) based on a condition in section 52(5B)(a) to (d), or

(iii) such other provision as may be prescribed,

the conditions in subsection (8) are met, or

(b) in any other case, the conditions in subsection (9) are met.

(8) The conditions referred to in subsection (7)(a) are that the new initial notice—

(a) is given before the end of the period of seven days beginning with the day on which the original initial notice ceased to be in force or such other period as may be prescribed,

(b) relates to all of the original work, except for any work in respect of which a final certificate has been accepted by the local authority, and

(c) is not a combined initial notice and plans certificate given in accordance with section 50(4).

(9) The conditions referred to in subsection (7)(b) are that—

(a) before the original initial notice ceases to be in force, the original registered building control approver has given a final certificate under section 51 in respect of any part of the work which they are satisfied has been completed, and

(b) the new initial notice relates to all of the original work, except for any work in respect of which a final certificate has been accepted by the local authority.

(10) Where—

(a) a plans certificate has been given in respect of any of the original work,

(b) the conditions in paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (2) are fulfilled with respect to that certificate, and

(c) a new initial notice as referred to in subsection (7) is accepted,

section 50(1C) does not apply in relation to so much of the work to which the new initial notice relates as is work specified in the plans certificate.

(11) Section 53B applies in relation to a new initial notice given in accordance with subsection (7)(a).

(12) The appropriate national authority may issue guidance about the process for—

(a) the giving of a new initial notice under subsection (7);

(b) the giving of a transfer certificate and a transfer report under section 53B;

(c) the consideration of a transfer certificate and a transfer report under section 53C.

(13) The appropriate national authority may revise or withdraw any issued guidance.

(14) The following must have regard to guidance issued under subsection (12)—

(a) a local authority;

(b) a registered building control approver;

(c) a person carrying out or intending to carry out work to which a new initial notice given under subsection (7) relates.]

Textual Amendments

F83 Word in s. 53(2)(a) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(6)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

F84 S. 53(2)(c) and word omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(6)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

F85 Words in s. 53(3)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(7)(a)

F86 S. 53(4A)-(4D) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 52(1), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(h) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(viii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F87 S. 53(6) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 45; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xix)

F88 Words in s. 53(6) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(7)(b)

F89 S. 53(6A) inserted (21.8.2006) by Climate Change and Sustainable Energy Act 2006 (c. 19), ss. 13(2), 28(1)

F90 S. 53(6A) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 45; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xix)

F91 S. 53(7)-(14) substituted for s. 53(7) (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(1), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

[F92 53A Lapse of initial notice E+W

(1) This section applies where—

(a) on any day (“the relevant day”) an initial notice is given in respect of any work, and

(b) the initial notice is accepted.

(2) Where the work relates to one building and is not commenced within 3 years from the end of the relevant day—

(a) the initial notice ceases to be in force, and

(b) if a plans certificate relating to the work (or any part of it) has been accepted, the relevant provisions have effect as if the certificate had not been given (or accepted).

(3) Where the work relates to more than one building, and the work in relation to one or more of the buildings (“the relevant work”) is not commenced within 3 years from the end of the relevant day—

(a) the initial notice ceases to be in force so far as it relates to the relevant work, and

(b) if a plans certificate relating to the relevant work (or any part of it) has been accepted, the relevant provisions have effect as if, as regards the relevant work, the certificate had not been given (or accepted).

(4) For the purposes of subsection (3)(b) it does not matter whether the plans certificate also relates to work other than the relevant work.

(5) In this section “the relevant provisions” has the meaning given by section 32.

(6) Building regulations may make provision about when work, or work relating to a building, is to be regarded as commenced for the purposes of this section.]

Textual Amendments

F92 S. 53A inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(7), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

[F93 53B New initial notice: change of registered building control approver E+W

(1) This section applies where a new initial notice is given in accordance with section 53(7)(a) (change of registered building control approver in certain cases).

(2) Where the new initial notice is accepted by the local authority the registered building control approver must take all reasonable steps to determine whether the unfinished work contravenes any provision of building regulations (including where necessary by carrying out inspections and laying open any work).

(3) If the registered building control approver determines that the unfinished work does not contravene any provision of building regulations, the approver must give a transfer certificate and a transfer report to the local authority before the end of the relevant period.

(4) If the registered building control approver is unable to make the determination referred to in subsection (3), the approver must—

(a) give the person carrying out or intending to carry out the work a notice setting out why they were unable to make the determination, and

(b) give a copy of that notice to the local authority.

(5) A transfer certificate must—

(a) confirm that the registered building control approver has determined that the unfinished work up to the date of the certificate does not contravene any provision of building regulations, and

(b) contain the prescribed information.

(6) A transfer report must contain any plans, documents or other information related to the confirmation in subsection (5)(a).

(7) In this section the “relevant period” means—

(a) the period of 21 days beginning with the day on which the new initial notice is accepted or such other period as may be prescribed, or

(b) such longer period as may be agreed by the local authority following a request from the registered building control approver.

(8) A transfer certificate given by a registered building control approver—

(a) does not impose any liability, whether civil or criminal, on the registered building control approver for any work carried out by the previous registered building control approver, and

(b) does not affect any liability, whether civil or criminal, of the previous registered building control approver for work carried out by that approver.

(9) In this section “unfinished work” means all of the work to which the original initial notice related, except for any work in respect of which a final certificate was accepted by the local authority.

Textual Amendments

F93 Ss. 53B-53E inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

53C Consideration of transfer certificate and report E+W

(1) This section applies where a registered building control approver gives a transfer certificate and a transfer report to a local authority in accordance with section 53B(3).

(2) The local authority must, by notice, accept or reject the certificate and report before the end of the relevant period.

(3) The local authority may reject the certificate and report only if—

(a) any of the prescribed grounds exist, or

(b) the registered building control approver fails to comply with a requirement in subsection (4) to give information to the local authority.

(4) During the period of 21 days beginning with the day on which the transfer certificate and transfer report is given to the local authority or such other period as may be prescribed, the local authority may, by notice, require the registered building control approver to give to the local authority such information as may be specified in the notice.

(5) The registered building control approver must give the information specified in the notice to the local authority before the end of the period of seven days beginning with the day on which the notice is given or such other period as may be prescribed.

(6) In this section the “relevant period” means—

(a) the period of 21 days beginning with the day on which the transfer certificate and transfer report is given to the local authority or such other period as may be prescribed, or

(b) such longer period as is determined in accordance with subsection (7).

(7) Where—

(a) a local authority requires a registered building control approver to give information to the local authority under subsection (4), and

(b) the day by which the information is required to be given would (but for this subsection) fall within the final seven days of the relevant period or would fall outside the relevant period,

the relevant period is to be extended to the end of the period of seven days beginning with the day after the day by which the information is required to be given.

(8) Where a local authority requires a registered building control approver to give information to the local authority under subsection (4), the local authority must give a copy of the notice to the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work.

Textual Amendments

F93 Ss. 53B-53E inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

53D Cancellation of initial notice: change of registered building control approver E+W

(1) This section applies where—

(a) a new initial notice is given in accordance with section 53(7)(a) (change of registered building control approver in certain cases), and

(b) the notice is accepted by the local authority.

(2) If, at a time when the initial notice is in force—

(a) the registered building control approver does not give the local authority a transfer certificate and transfer report in accordance with section 53B(3), or

(b) the local authority rejects the transfer certificate and transfer report in accordance with section 53C,

the local authority must cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to the registered building control approver and the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work.

(3) The person carrying out or intending to carry out the work to which the initial notice relates may, at a time—

(a) when the initial notice is in force, and

(b) before the local authority accepts or rejects the transfer certificate and report in accordance with section 53C,

cancel the initial notice by notice in the prescribed form given to the local authority and, if it is practicable to do so, to the registered building control approver.

(4) A notice under subsection (2) or (3) has the effect of cancelling the initial notice to which it relates with effect from the day on which the notice is given.

(5) Where an initial notice ceases to be in force by virtue of subsection (2) or (3), a new initial notice may not, except in prescribed circumstances, be given in relation to any of the work to which the cancelled notice related.

(6) Where an initial notice ceases to be in force by virtue of subsection (2) or (3)—

(a) for the purpose of enabling the local authority to perform the functions referred to in section 48(1) in relation to any part of the work, building regulations may require the local authority to be provided with plans that relate to that part of the work, and

(b) section 53(5) applies in relation to the notice as it applies in relation to an initial notice that ceases to be in force as referred to in section 53(1).

(7) This section is without prejudice to any other provisions of this Part relating to when an initial notice ceases to be in force.

Textual Amendments

F93 Ss. 53B-53E inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

53E Restriction on functions of registered building control approvers E+W

(1) This section applies where—

(a) a new initial notice is given in accordance with section 53(7)(a) (change of registered building control approver in certain cases), and

(b) the notice is accepted by the local authority.

(2) During the period in respect of which—

(a) the notice is in force, but

(b) a transfer certificate and a transfer report have not been accepted by the local authority,

the registered building control approver may not exercise the relevant functions.

(3) In this section the “relevant functions” are the functions of a registered building control approver under, or under regulations made under—

(a) section 50 (plans certificates);

(b) section 51 (final certificates);

(c) section 51A (amendment notices).]

Textual Amendments

F93 Ss. 53B-53E inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

Supervision of their own work by public bodies E+W

54 Giving, acceptance and effect of public body’s notice. E+W

(1) This section applies where a body (corporate or unincorporated that acts under an enactment for public purposes and not for its own profit and is, or is of a description that is, approved by the [F94 appropriate national authority] in accordance with building regulations (in this Part of this Act referred to as a “public body”)—

(a) intends to carry out in relation to a building belonging to it work to which the substantive requirements of building regulations apply.

(b) considers that the work can be adequately supervised by its own servants or agents, and

(c) gives to the local authority in whose district the work is to be carried out notice in the prescribed form (called a “public body’s notice”) together with such plans of the work as may be prescribed.

[F95 (1A) A public body’s notice is of no effect to the extent that it relates to higher-risk building work in England (and accordingly Schedule 4 does not have effect in relation to such work).]

(2) A public body’s notice is of no effect unless it is accepted by the local authority to whom it is given; and that local authority—

(a) may not reject the notice except on prescribed grounds, and

(b) shall reject the notice if any of the prescribed grounds exists,

and, in a case where the work to which the public body’s notice relates is work of such a description that, if [F96 plans of if had been deposited with] [F96 an application for building control approval in respect of it had been made to] the local authority, the authority could, under an enactment, have imposed requirements as a condition of [F97 passing the plans] [F97 granting the application], the local authority may impose the like requirements as a condition of accepting the public body’s notice.

(3) Unless, within the prescribed period, the local authority to whom a public body’s notice is given give notice of rejection, specifying the ground or grounds in question, the authority is conclusively presumed to have accepted the public body’s notice and to have done so without imposing any such requirements as are referred to in subsection (2) above.

(4) Section 48 above has effect for the purposes of this section—

(a) with the substitution of a reference to a public body’s notice for any reference to an initial notice, [F98 and]

(b) with the substitution, in subsection (2)(a), of a reference to subsection (1)(c) of this section for the reference to section 47(1)(b) [F99 , and

(c) with the substitution, in subsection (2)(d), of a reference to paragraph 4A of Schedule 4 for the reference to section 53A.]

(5) The form prescribed for a public body’s notice may be such as to require the public body by whom it is to be given—

(a) to furnish information relevant for the purposes of this Act, Part II or IV of the M3 Public Health Act 1936 or any provision of building regulations, and

(b) to enter into undertakings with respect to consultation and other matters.

(6) Where a public body’s notice is given and accepted by the local authority to whom it is given, the provisions of Schedule 4 to this Act have effect, being provisions that correspond, as nearly as may be, to those made by the preceding provisions of this Part of this Act for the case where an initial notice is given and accepted.

Textual Amendments

F94 Words in s. 54(1) substituted (28.6.2022 for E., 5.9.2023 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 46(2); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 3(f), Sch. para. 25; S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xiii), Sch. para. 18

F95 S. 54(1A) inserted (1.10.2023) by The Building (Public Bodies and Higher-Risk Building Work) (England) Regulations 2023 (S.I. 2023/504), regs. 1(2), 3; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(f) (with reg. 4)

F96 Words in s. 54(2) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 46(3)(a); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xx)

F97 Words in s. 54(2) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 46(3)(b); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xx)

F98 Word in s. 54(4)(a) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(8)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

F99 S. 54(4)(c) and words inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 36(8)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(o); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(iii); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5)

Marginal Citations

M3 1936 c. 49.

[F100 54A Public bodies and higher-risk building work E+W

(1) The appropriate national authority may by regulations make such amendments of the provisions listed in subsection (2) as the authority considers appropriate in connection with higher-risk building work.

(2) The provisions are—

(a) section 5;

(b) section 54;

(c) Schedule 4.]

Textual Amendments

F100 S. 54A inserted (1.4.2023 except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 47, 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 2(1)(e); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xi)

[F101 Registered building control approvers: restricted activities and functions E+W

Textual Amendments

F101 S. 54B and cross-heading inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 44(3), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(t); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(ix); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(c) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(iv) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

54B Registered building control approvers: restricted activities and functions E+W

(1) This section applies to a registered building control approver who is not a registered building inspector.

(2) The approver may carry out a restricted activity in relation to any work only through a registered building inspector, acting on the approver’s behalf, whose registration has effect in relation to work of that description.

(3) Before each exercise of a restricted function in relation to any work, the approver must obtain and consider the advice of a registered building inspector whose registration has effect in relation to work of that description.

(4) The registered building inspector who carries out the restricted activity, or advises on the exercise of the restricted function, may (but need not) be employed by the approver.

(5) In this section—

• “restricted activity” means an activity that is prescribed for the purposes of this section;

• “restricted function” means a function of a registered building control approver under this Part, or regulations made under this Part, that is prescribed for the purposes of this section.

(6) A registered building control approver who contravenes subsection (2) or (3) without reasonable excuse commits an offence.

(7) An offence under this section is punishable on summary conviction by a fine.]

Supplementary E+W

55 Appeals. E+W

(1) A person aggrieved by the local authority’s rejection of—

(a) an initial notice [F102 , amendment notice] or a public body’s notice, F103 ...

(b) a plans certificate, a final certificate, a public body’s plans certificate or a public body’s final certificate, [F104 or

(c) a transfer certificate and a transfer report,]

may appeal to [F105 the appropriate court or tribunal] F106 ....

(2) On an appeal under subsection (1) above, the court [F107 or tribunal] shall—

(a) if it determines that the notice [F108 , report] or certificate was properly rejected, confirm the rejection, and

(b) in any other case, give a direction to the local authority to accept the notice [F109 , report] or certificate.

[F110 (2A) Where a local authority cancels an initial notice, in whole or in part, by giving a notice (a “cancellation notice”) under section 52A(4)—

(a) the person shown in the initial notice as the person intending to carry out the work, or

(b) the registered building control approver,

may appeal to the appropriate court or tribunal.

(2B) On an appeal under subsection (2A), the court or tribunal must determine whether the relevant part of the initial notice was properly cancelled.

(2C) In a case where the court or tribunal determines that the relevant part of the initial notice was not properly cancelled—

(a) the determination does not have the effect of reinstating the relevant part of the initial notice;

(b) section 52B(2) and (6) continue to apply in relation to the relevant part of the initial notice;

(c) a new initial notice relating to any of the work to which the relevant part of the original initial notice related (the “original work”) may be given only if the new initial notice—

(i) is given before the end of the period of seven days beginning with the day on which the appeal is determined or such other period as may be prescribed, and

(ii) relates to all of the original work, except for any work in respect of which a final certificate has been accepted by the local authority;

(d) the court or tribunal may give such directions as it considers appropriate in consequence of the determination (which may include giving directions to the regulator).

(2D) Where—

(a) a plans certificate has been given in respect of any of the original work,

(b) the conditions in paragraphs (a) and (b) of section 53(2) are fulfilled with respect to that certificate, and

(c) a new initial notice as referred to in subsection (2C)(c) is accepted,

section 50(1C) does not apply in relation to so much of the work to which the new initial notice relates as is work specified in the plans certificate.

(2E) Where—

(a) a new initial notice is given in accordance with subsection (2C)(c), and

(b) the registered building control approver shown in the new initial notice is different to the registered building control approver shown in the original initial notice,

sections 53B to 53E apply as if any reference in those sections to a new initial notice given in accordance with section 53(7)(a) were a reference to a new initial notice given in accordance with section 55(2C)(c).

(2F) In this section the “relevant part of the initial notice” means so much of the initial notice as was subject to the cancellation notice.]

(3) Where a person is aggrieved by a determination, confirmation, direction or other decision of a magistrates’ court under this section, he may appeal to the Crown Court.

[F111 (4) On an appeal under subsection (1), the local authority must give the specified information to the regulator.

(5) In this section “specified” means specified in regulations made by the Secretary of State under this section.

(6) The Secretary of State may make regulations under this section only in relation to England.]

Textual Amendments

F102 Words in s. 55(1)(a) inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(8)

F103 Word in s. 55(1) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(4)(a)(i), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F104 S. 55(1)(c) and word inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(4)(a)(ii), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F105 Words in s. 55(1) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 6 para. 9(i); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(o)(i) (with reg. 6); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F106 Words in s. 55(1) repealed (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), s. 110(1), Sch. 8 para. 280, Sch. 10; S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

F107 Words in s. 55(2) inserted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 6 para. 15; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(o)(i) (with reg. 6); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F108 Word in s. 55(2)(a) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(4)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F109 Word in s. 55(2)(b) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 51(4)(c), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(g) (with regs. 3, 5); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(vii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F110 S. 55(2A)-(2F) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 1.10.2023 in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 46(5), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(u); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(x); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(l) (with reg. 8); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(v) (with regs. 3-5, 8-12)

F111 S. 55(4)-(6) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(2), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(i) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(ix) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

56 Recording and furnishing of information. E+W

(1) Every local authority [F112 in Wales] shall keep, in such manner as may be prescribed, a register containing such information as may be prescribed with respect to initial notices [F113 amendment notices, notices under section 51C above,], public body’s notices [F114 , transfer reports] and certificates given to them, including information [F115 (where applicable)] as to whether such notices [F116 , reports] or certificates have been accepted or rejected.

F117 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3) The reference in subsection (1) above to certificates is a reference to plans certificates, final certificates [F118 , transfer certificates] [F119 and public body’s final certificates.]

(4) Every register kept under this section [F120 by a local authority in Wales] shall be available for inspection by the public at all reasonable hours.

(5) Where an initial notice or a public body’s notice has continued in force for any period, the local authority by whom it was accepted may require the [F121 registered building control approver] or public body by whom it was given to furnish them with any information that—

(a) they would have obtained themselves if during that period their function of enforcing building regulations had continued to be exercisable in relation to the work [F122 to which the notice relates], and

(b) they require for the purpose of performing their duty under section 230 of the M4 Local Government Act 1972 (reports and returns),

and that section shall have effect as if during that period that function had continued to be so exercisable.

Textual Amendments

F112 Words in s. 56(1) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(3)(a)(i), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v)

F113 Words in S. 56(1) inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(9)(a)(i)

F114 Words in s. 56(1) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(3)(a)(ii), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(i) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(ix) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F115 Words in s. 56(1) inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(9)(ii)

F116 Word in s. 56(1) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(3)(a)(iii), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(i) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(ix) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F117 S. 56(2) omitted (28.7.2022) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 48(4), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2022/561, reg. 4; S.I. 2022/774, reg. 2

F118 Words in s. 56(3) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(3)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(i) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(ix) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F119 Words in s. 56(3) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 47; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xxi); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F120 Words in s. 56(4) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(3)(c), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v)

F121 Words in s. 56(5) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 11; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F122 Words in s. 56(5)(a) substituted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(9)(c)

Marginal Citations

M4 1972 c. 70.

[F123 56A Giving information by electronic means: England E+W

(1) The regulator must establish and maintain a facility (the “facility”) to enable a specified person to give specified relevant information to another person by electronic communication.

(2) The Secretary of State may by regulations require or authorise a specified person to use the facility when giving specified relevant information to another person.

(3) Any information given to a person in accordance with regulations made under subsection (2) is to be treated for the purposes of section 56B (requirement to keep register) as also having been given to the regulator.

(4) Regulations under this section may require a person who is given specified relevant information otherwise than through the facility to give that information to the regulator using the facility.

(5) Regulations under this section may make provision treating specified relevant information that is given using the facility as having been given in the prescribed form for the purposes of this Part.

(6) In this section—

• “relevant information” means information that is required or authorised to be given by this Part or regulations made under it;

• “specified” means specified in regulations made by the Secretary of State under this section.

(7) In this section and section 56B—

• “information” includes documents;

• “documents” includes notices, certificates, orders, consents, demands and plans.

(8) The Secretary of State may make regulations under this section only in relation to England.

Textual Amendments

F123 Ss. 56A-56C inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(1), 170(4)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v)

56B Requirement to keep register: England E+W

(1) The regulator must keep a register of specified relevant information.

(2) The information that may be specified for the purposes of subsection (1) includes in particular information given, or treated as having been given, to the regulator using the facility established under section 56A(1).

(3) The regulator—

(a) must maintain the register in electronic form;

(b) must ensure that any specified parts of the register are available for inspection by members of the public;

(c) must, in specified circumstances, provide to members of the public, on request, copies of information kept in the register.

(4) In this section—

• “relevant information” means information that is required or authorised to be given by this Part or regulations made under it;

• “specified” means specified in regulations made by the Secretary of State under this section.

(5) The Secretary of State may make regulations under this section only in relation to England.

Textual Amendments

F123 Ss. 56A-56C inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(1), 170(4)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v)

56C Delegation of functions E+W

(1) The regulator may by written notice delegate to a person, to such extent and subject to such conditions as the regulator considers appropriate, the functions conferred on the regulator by—

(a) section 56A(1);

(b) section 56B(1) and (3) (including the ability to charge fees in connection with the exercise of those functions).

(2) In subsection (1) “fees” means fees that are prescribed by, or determined by the regulator in accordance with, regulations under section 105B.

(3) The regulator may delegate different functions to different persons under subsection (1).

(4) The regulator may delegate functions under subsection (1) only with the consent of the Secretary of State.

(5) The regulator may revoke a delegation of functions to a person by giving a written notice to the person.

(6) The regulator may revoke a delegation under subsection (5) only with the consent of the Secretary of State.

(7) Schedule 3 to the Building Safety Act 2022 (information sharing) applies as if references to the regulator included references to a person to whom the regulator has delegated functions under subsection (1)(b).]

Textual Amendments

F123 Ss. 56A-56C inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 53(1), 170(4)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v)

57 Offences. E+W

(1) If a person—

(a) gives a notice or certificate that—

[F124 (i) purports to comply with the requirements of this Part [F125 or a provision of building regulations that is designated by the regulations for the purposes of this section,] and]

(ii) contains a statement that he knows to be false or misleading in a material particular, F126 ...

[F127 (aa) fails without reasonable excuse to comply with a requirement under section 53(4A) to give information, or]

(b) recklessly gives a notice or certificate that—

(i) purports to comply with those requirements, and

(ii) contains a statement that is false or misleading in a material particular,

he is guilty of an offence.

(2) A person guilty of an offence under subsection (1) above is liable—

(a) on summary conviction, to a fine F128 ... or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or both, and

(b) on conviction on indictment, to a fine or imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years or both.

[F129 (3) Where a registered building control approver is convicted of an offence under this section, the court by or before which they are convicted must, within one month of the date of conviction, forward a certificate of the conviction to—

(a) the regulatory authority, or

(b) if the regulatory authority has delegated its functions in relation to the register of building control approvers to another person under section 58Y, that person.]

Textual Amendments

F124 S. 57(1)(a)(i) substituted (1.2.2006) by Sustainable and Secure Buildings Act 2004 (c. 22), ss. 8(4), 11(3); S.I. 2006/224, art. 2(c)

F125 Words in s. 57(1)(a)(i) substituted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 48(2); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xxi); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F126 Word in s. 57(1) omitted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 52(2)(a), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(h) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(viii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F127 S. 57(1)(aa) inserted (6.4.2023 for specified purposes except in relation to W., 5.9.2023 for W. for specified purposes, 6.4.2024 in force in so far as not already in force except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W. in so far as not already in force) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), ss. 52(2)(b), 170(4)(b)(c); S.I. 2023/362, reg. 3(1)(v); S.I. 2023/914, reg. 2(b)(xii); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(h) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(viii) (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F128 Words in s. 57(2)(a) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 48(3); S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xxi); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F129 S. 57(3) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 12; S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

58 Construction of Part II. E+W

(1) In this Part of this Act—

[F130 ’amendment notice’ has the meaning given by section 51A(2) above;]

• “final certificate” has the meaning given by section 51(1) above;

• “initial notice” has the meaning given by section 47(1) above;

• “plans certificate” has the meaning given by section 50(1) above;

• “public body” and “public body’s notice” have the meanings given by section 54(1) above;

• “public body’s final certificate” has the meaning given by paragraph 3 of Schedule 4 to this Act;

• “public body’s plans certificate” has the meaning given by paragraph 2 of Schedule 4 to this Act.

F131 (2) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3) A reference in this Part of this Act to an initial notice given by [F132 a registered building control approver] is a reference to a notice given by [F133 them] jointly with another person as mentioned in section 47(1)(a) above.

Textual Amendments

F130 Words in s. 58(1) inserted (14.10.1996) by S.I. 1996/1905, art. 3(10)

F131 S. 58(2) omitted (1.10.2023 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by virtue of Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 5 para. 49; S.I. 2023/993, reg. 2(n)(xxi); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(xi), Sch. (with regs. 3, 4, 8-12)

F132 Words in s. 58(3) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 13(a); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)

F133 Word in s. 58(3) substituted (6.4.2024 except in relation to W., 6.4.2024 for W.) by Building Safety Act 2022 (c. 30), s. 170(4)(b)(c), Sch. 4 para. 13(b); S.I. 2024/104, reg. 2(b) (with reg. 3); S.I. 2024/207, reg. 2(d)(x) (with regs. 3, 4, 6, 8-12)