Dangerous structures
Where a building is in such a condition that it may put people in danger, we have legal powers to investigate and require that it be made safe.
Dangers can vary from loose drainpipes or roof coverings as a result of poor maintenance, to a building collapsing as a result of fire, storm damage or a road traffic accident. The most common problem is unstable boundary walls.
To report a dangerous structure:
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Contact our Building Control Team on 01452 396771 during office hours
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Out of hours please contact the emergency call centre on 01452 396220
What happens next?
Once we’ve been notified of a dangerous structure one of our building control surveyors will visit the site. They will examine the level of danger and may have the structure made safe or demolished, depending on the severity. If it is considered that a structure is immediately dangerous Building Control can require immediate evacuation of a building and require, or take, any action necessary to protect the public and adjacent property. Such action may involve temporary road closure, barricading, shoring, scaffolding, repairs or demolition.
The owner of any building or structure that becomes dangerous is responsible for all the costs involved in making it safe. We will try to contact them to remove the danger. In an emergency we may have to correct the problem – they will be liable for any costs incurred.
If the owner is unavailable, unable or unwilling to arrange for the danger to be removed, we will do the minimum necessary to safeguard the area. This could involve putting up fencing to keep people away from the danger area until a more permanent solution is found. All actions will be confirmed in writing and, if available, the owner will be advised of the likely cost involved.
Last Modified: Wednesday 21 March 2012