Deadline extension for building inspectors in the UK

The UK building inspection industry has missed the crucial deadline set by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to ensure a sufficient number of qualified building inspectors are available to meet high demand.

As reported by Construction News, the initial deadline for inspectors to demonstrate their competency was extended by three months in March, following concerns raised by the Local Authority Building Control (LABC).

In response to ongoing challenges, the BSR has temporarily amended competency rules for certain class two and three building inspectors.

These inspectors, who are authorised to assess a building’s safety unsupervised, were required to apply for certification by Saturday, 6 July.

However, those still awaiting their certification results will be permitted to inspect buildings during this interim period.

In a letter dated 3 July, the BSR stated: “We have been alerted to concerns in the profession that there will still be insufficient class two and three RBIs [registered building inspectors] by the end of the extension period, and that some organisations will struggle with the resulting supervision requirements when those who have not completed their assessment revert to class one, only able to work under supervision.”

Amendments to competency rules

The BSR has communicated the amendments to all affected inspectors, allowing a limited cohort to carry out inspections unsupervised despite not having received their certification results.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities supports this decision, recognising the necessity of maintaining inspection capabilities during this period.

Class three inspectors are uniquely qualified to inspect higher-risk buildings of any height, while class two inspectors are limited to buildings under 18 meters and not considered high-risk.

Class one inspectors, who require supervision, do not need to complete competency assessments to perform their duties.

A spokesperson for the Health and Safety Executive, which encompasses the BSR, commented: “We have taken the decision to allow that limited cohort of individuals to continue to undertake the restricted activities for which they have completed the assessment process.”

Communication with affected inspectors

Inspectors who have not received notification from the BSR will need to revert to class one status and work under supervision.

Upon receipt of their certification results, they are required to contact the BSR to upgrade their registration.

This measure aims to ensure continued safety and compliance in building inspections while addressing the shortage of qualified inspectors.

LABC Chief Executive Lorna Stimpson expressed support for the decision, stating she “welcomed the pragmatic decision” from the BSR.

Challenges facing the building inspection industry

The building inspection industry in the UK continues to face challenges in meeting the demand for qualified inspectors.

The recent extension of the certification deadline highlights the ongoing issues within the sector.

The BSR’s decision to temporarily amend competency rules reflects an effort to balance the need for safety with the realities of inspector availability.

While the temporary measures provide some relief, the industry must address the root causes of the shortage of qualified inspectors to ensure long-term compliance and safety.

The support from various regulatory bodies indicates a collaborative effort to overcome these challenges.