Building control officers or inspectors, sometimes known as building control surveyors, work in construction planning and inspection in the public and private sectors. Their job is to make sure that construction work conforms to Building Regulations.

Some of the main duties include:

• liaising with architects, designers, builders and engineers on planning proposals
• suggesting ways to improve cost-effectiveness of materials and energy use
• carrying out regular inspections at each stage of the building process
• maintaining records and issuing completion certificates.

Officers need an in-depth knowledge of regulations covering:

• public health
• fire safety and security
• construction technology
• energy conservation and environmental impact
• building accessibility.

If the building control officer decides the work no longer meets regulations, they can instigate legal proceedings to alter or stop the work.

Officers work on projects ranging from relatively small housing extensions through to large city centre redevelopment. As well as a comprehensive technical knowledge, officers need to appreciate the implications that their decisions have on contractors' time and costs.

Local authorities' building control officers also approve demolitions, and conduct surveys of potentially dangerous buildings damaged by fire or bad weather conditions. Other responsibilities include:

• administering entertainment licences
• safety at sports grounds and other open-air events
• cinema and theatre inspections.

Hours and Environment

Building control officers work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Some officers will be on 24-hour call-out in case the emergency services need them to inspect an unstable building. Flexi-time and job-sharing may be available.

Officers split their time between the office and on-site visits. They inspect buildings in all weathers, and wear safety equipment on-site. Some jobs involve working from heights on scaffolding or ladders.

A driving licence is normally required.

Skills and Interests

To be a building control officer, you should:

• have an excellent knowledge of Building Regulations
• have a good understanding of the technical aspects of construction
• have good problem-solving skills
• have strong IT skills
• have excellent communication and negotiating skills
• be able to explain technical terms to members of the public
• have time management skills and organisational ability
• be able to work alone and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Entry

Most new entrants have at least two A levels/H grades, a BTEC national diploma, a BTEC HNC/HND or a degree. However, entry requirements can vary so you need to check with employers.

Relevant subjects include:

• building studies
• civil engineering
• building control
• building surveying.

The minimum requirements for a HND are four GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) and one A level/two H grades. For a degree, you normally need five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) plus two A levels/three Highers. Equivalent qualifications or relevant experience may be accepted.

An Access to Higher Education award may be acceptable for entry to certain courses. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors’ (RICS)and LGcareers websites have information on training routes and the job role. See contacts below for details.

Training

As a building inspector you will normally receive on-the-job training. Depending on your qualifications and experience, you may also have day or block release to work towards a relevant qualification.

Once employed, you can study for:

• the NVQ/SVQ in Built Environment Development and Control at levels 3 and 4
• the NVQ/SVQ in Building Control Level 4.

For details, see the Association of Building Engineers (ABE). You can also study for the professional exams of the RICS or the ABE. After passing written exams, you are assessed to evaluate your professional competence.

The professional bodies run seminars and training courses, and distance learning options are also available. For more details, see their websites in Further Information.

Opportunities

Most building inspectors are employed by local authorities but there are also opportunities in the private sector, in government-appointed inspection bodies.

Promotion is linked to qualifications and experience. There are opportunities to specialise in a particular field, for example fire safety, or to move into technical and planning roles in other departments, such as town planning.

Experienced building control officers can become self employed and work as consultants.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only. Rates tend to be higher in the south-east, particularly in the private sector.

Initial salaries can range from £21,000 to £26,000 a year.
Experienced inspectors can earn between £27,000 and £38,000.
Senior inspectors can earn up to £50,000 a year.

Further information

Lutyens House
Billing Brook Road
Weston Favell
Northampton
NN3 8NW
Tel: 0845 126 1058 Englemere
Kings Ride
Ascot
Berkshire
SL5 7TB
Tel: 01344 630700 Surveyor Court
Westwood Way
Coventry
CV4 8JE
Tel: 0870 333 1600