ABSTRACT
The Building Act 1984 is the mechanism by which the Secretary of State ensures that the health, welfare and convenience of persons living in or working in or near buildings is secured. Under the terms of the Building Act 1984, local authorities are responsible for ensuring that any building work that takes place in their area conforms to the requirements of the associated Building Regulations. In Scotland, the requirements for buildings are controlled by the Building Regulations 2004 as amended by the Building Amendment Regulations 2010. In Northern Ireland the primary legislation for buildings is the Building Regulations Order 1979 under which Building Regulations 2000 are made. Part of the local authority's duty is to make regular checks that all building work being completed is in conformance with the approved plan submitted and the Building Regulations themselves. The cost of carrying out these tests will normally be charged to the owner or occupier of the building.
