Regular Building Control Inspections:

Your builder should schedule frequent inspections with the local authority Building Control Officer (BCO) at key stages of construction. Once the BCO approves the completed work, you’ll receive a crucial Completion Certificate. This document is essential to keep safe, as it will be required when you sell your property. Your architect and Contract Administrator will also monitor progress and quality throughout the project.

Essential Certifications:

To obtain the Completion Certificate, your builder must provide you and the local authority with specific certifications. These include an Electrical Installation Certificate such as those from a NICEIC-approved electrician and a Gas Safe Certificate from a registered installer if any gas equipment has been installed or altered.

Final Account and Retention:

Once all necessary paperwork is in order, including the Completion Certificate and relevant certifications, you can settle the builder’s final account with the help of your Contract Administrator. In some cases, a small percentage of the total cost (typically 2.5%) may be retained as a guarantee for a certain period. This retention is released once any post-completion issues have been resolved. Even without a formal retention, reputable builders will usually address any minor problems that arise within a reasonable timeframe, free of charge.