Dangerous Structures

Dangerous Structures

Building Control Surveyors will investigate reports of dangerous buildings and structures. Our aims are to:
- Inspect reported dangerous structures within 24 hours (2 hours where reported by the emergency services) and,
- to ensure buildings and structures are made safe and their condition does not put at risk or cause injury to members of the public

Reporting a Dangerous Structure

- Simply complete and submit the Report Form. This will be forwarded to a Surveyor who will investigate and take any necessary action to resolve the matter.
- Out of hours emergencies must be reported to the Out of Hours Service - Telephone: (023) 8023 3344

Typical Dangerous Structures

- Leaning garden walls
- Storm damaged buildings
- Loose roofing materials
- Cracked and bulging walls
- Buildings damaged by vehicle impact / fire Leaning chimney stacks
- Overloaded retaining walls etc

Likely Course of Action

Firstly, the reported building or structure will be inspected / investigated.
- Where the structure is in a dangerous condition the Surveyor may, if the circumstances require, take immediate action to remove the danger.
- Alternatively, a Court Order may be sought from the Magistrates` Court requiring the owner to either carry out necessary work or demolish the building (or part) to make the building safe.
- In certain cases, it may be necessary to carry out further investigations and monitoring to quantify the dangerous nature of the building / structure and to help determine the appropriate course of action.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral which has been mined and processed. It has been widely used in a variety of building and household products due to its unique properties, which include: high tensile strength, thermal stability and resistance to chemicals and electricity. There are three main types of asbestos which have been used commercially.