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Q&As
Builder did not get inspections
We hired a builder to build a 3x5metre single storey extension to the back of our house, which was completed in November 2016…he was supposed to take care of everything. I bought all the best materials after much research, so I know that it was built using the best stuff, and I took photos throughout the build…however, we never received a completion certificate, and the builder has disappeared from the planet! I don’t think he has had any inspections done (he said he had) we were living at parents whilst the work was done. So I’m now worried about what we need to do next to make it all legal…any advice?
Answers
I have forwarded your query to our project management expert, who should get back with his advice soon. In the meantime, you can take a look at our guide to Building Regulations, including inspections, here:
Andrew (Build It’s Digital Assistant Editor)
You won’t be the first or the last person to be in this situation and you’ll be glad to know it can be resolved. I would recommend you get in touch with your local building control officer and ask for a Certificate of Regularisation. It’s a bonus that you have photographs of the build as this will help the inspecting officer determine what lies below the plasterboard and may well minimise the need for invasive investigation. There will be a charge for this service, but it is worth doing now. The usual time for an issue like this to surface is when you come to sell the house, and it can result in expensive legal bills between vendor and buyer, so getting everything sorted now will pay dividends later.
Mike Hardwick (Build It expert)
