Building control Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Why should I choose Local Authority Building Control?

• We believe in sound working relationships based on understanding and support
• We are committed to maintaining the highest standards and ensuring that the built environment in which we all live, work and play is safe and healthy
• We will work with you to achieve quality construction that meets the building regulations. Whether you are an Architect, builder or householder carrying out DIY, you can rely on us
• We give value for money and achieve high standards whilst still being impartial
• We are publicly accountable
• We will work with other representatives of the Local Authority and associated agencies to assist your project
• We have a vast archive of local knowledge of sites in our district and can utilise this to offer knowledge-based pre-application advice
• We are locally based so we can respond very quickly to on site construction needs if required
• We can offer inspection plans and progress reports for your project
• We can accept applications electronically
• We have professionally qualified staff.

2. What are the advantages of a Full Plans application?

There are several advantages to using a Full Plans application:

• The process of preparing the plans allows you to carefully consider your proposals and receive professional advice
• You can see your proposals on plan giving you a clear indication of how they will affect your property and if the works will meet your needs
• It will be easier for the builder to prepare an accurate quotation since they will have detailed plans to refer to
• It will be easier to explain to your builder what works you are proposing and there will be less room for error and disputes
• The plans will form part of a contract between you and your builder
• If you are borrowing money in order to finance your proposals, you may need to have plans to show the bank or building society
• You will receive an Approval Notice for the works
• If your Contractor builds in accordance with the approved plans, you can be confident of compliance with the Building Regulations
• The plans will form a historical record of the works that have been carried out and can be lodged with the deeds of your property.

3. What types of applications are suitable for Building Notice?

Minor works such as Internal alterations involving the removal of one or two walls, installation of boilers or other heating appliances, insertion of windows, installation of bathrooms and other drainage, garages / carports (not exempt from building regulation), and the underpinning of foundations.

4. How can I talk to a Building Control Surveyor?

Without appointment, Surveyors are generally out visiting sites between 10am and 3pm and do not take calls whilst driving or on site for safety reasons. However, they will check for messages later in the day either received on the phone or email. You can talk to our Customer Service Officers on 01865 249811 for general enquires. For enquires about your application call us on 01865 252876 or email buildingcontrol@oxford.gov.uk.

5. Will I get a completion certificate?

You must notify Building Control when the work on site are satisfactorily completed and arrange for a completion inspection to be undertaken. If the work undertaken are in accordance to the Approved Plans and in compliance with the Building Regulations,  you will be issued a Certificate of Completion. However, applicants should note that a request to inspect completed building works should be received by the Council within 3 years from the last inspection. If a request is received outside of this time, an inspection may be made at the absolute discretion of the Council and additional fees maybe payable at this stage.

6. How do I get a copy of a completion certificate?

If you are the owner of the property or their agent, you request a copy at buildingcontrol@oxford.gov.uk there is a charge for electronic copies, please see our fee page. When requesting this please allow 5 working days for a reply. To help us find the information you will need to provide us with:

• The address of the property
• The reference number - you can locate this here: View Building Control Applications 
• Agent contact details (if applicable)
• Owner name and contact details

7. How long is the building regulation application valid for?

A 'building notice' or a 'full plans' application are only valid for three years from the date the application was submitted to the local authority, after which it will automatically lapse if the building work has not commenced on site, or the Council have not been given a notice of commencement.