Survey shows high level of Part L enforcement in Cambridgeshire
Enforcement of Part L (conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations by local-authority buildings controllers in Cambridgeshire runs a close second behind structure (Part A) and ahead of fire (Part B). The enforcement figures are 18.3% for Part L and 22.5% for Part A.
The survey in all six local authorities in Cambridgeshire in June 2009 found that all parts of the Building Regulations from A to P were enforced at some point during the 2306 inspections undertaken. Of the 3369 enforcements, 615 were for Part L.
The survey was conducted against a background of misunderstanding of the term ‘enforcement’. Many people believe that building control surveyors only enforce particular regulations when seeking a prosecution. However, the reality is that a more collaborative approach is used by local-authority building control, with guidance given at an early stage on any problems that are notices.
This ‘pre-contravention intervention’ occurs when building-control surveyors give any feedback about a project, whether it happens in the office looking at plans or on site. PCIs are said to save time and money for all parties, while ensuring compliance.
Commenting on the need for the research, LABC chief executive said. ‘For the last 25 years, Governments have required building-control teams to help and support industry by moving away from a rigid “tick box” mentality to one of help and advice. Working with architects and contractors as a team has many advantages, especially as there isn’t always just one answer to a problem.
‘Having made this change, it is ridiculous for commentators to criticise us for “not enforcing”. By this they mean not prosecuting.
‘This survey, along with others carried out in England and Wales, proves LABC enforces constantly but at the right time — before the building work takes place.’
