RBCA

A Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA) is sanctioned by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) to undertake building control services throughout England and Wales. Once known as ‘Approved Inspectors’, RBCAs play a critical role in ensuring the safety and compliance of buildings and structures. 

Building project management

RBCA, Registered Building Control Approver

Both private individuals and companies can be Registered Building Control Approvers and they offer a range of building control services, such as:

  • Review building plans to ensure compliance
  • Provide advice to clients and contractors regarding building compliance
  • Conduct site inspections to ensure work is carried out in accordance with relevant regulations
  • Issue certificates confirming work is compliance with relevant legislation or regulation

RBCA Regulations

In response to safety concerns, building control management was overhauled and updated as part of the Building Safety Act 2022. Prior to this Act, Approved Inspectors were able to inspect and certify building work, providing they were registered with the Construction Industry Council (CIC). However, the role of Approved Inspectors has now been replaced with Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs).

What Are RBCAs Permitted To Do?

RBCAs can supervise, inspect and certify non-higher-risk building work, providing they are registered with the BSR and adhere to its Code of Conduct. However, the Building Safety Regulator will have jurisdiction over higher-risk building work, which includes:

  • Buildings at least 18 metres in height
  • Buildings that have at least 7 storeys and contain two or more residential units
  • Care Homes
  • Hospitals

While the BSR has oversight of RBCAs, the Association of Building Control Approvers (ABCA) also represents professionals working in the industry and provides useful information about the role and limitations of an RBCA.

Although there are extensive laws and regulations applicable to building works in England and Wales, the recent Building Safety Act 2022 also gives the Building Safety Regulator the authority to set standards and enforce regulations. As such, RBCAs will be required to adhere to future regulations introduced by the BSR. 

Do You Need an RBCA?

If you’re undertaking non-higher-risk building works, then it’s highly likely you will need to access the services of a Registered Building Control Approver. At the very least, an RBCA will need to inspect the work and issue relevant certificates to confirm the work meets relevant standards. 

However, taking a proactive approach can help to eliminate delays and reduce costs. By working with an RBCA from out the outset of the project, you can access expert guidance regarding compliance and avoid having to undertake costly remedial works if you discover that work is non-compliant after it’s been completed.

RBCA Software

Many RBCAs use dedicated software and/or centralised platforms to deliver efficient building control services. A Registered Building Control Approver may rely on sector-specific software to manage multiple projects centrally, record correspondence and produce documentation, for example. Crucially, this type of software provides optimal traceability and transparency, which is advantageous for all parties if disagreements arise. 

Will RBCAs Improve Building Safety?

Building safety is a top priority for property owners, developers, occupants and the community as a whole. The introduction of RBCAs and the role of the BSR in relation to higher-risk works should help to enhance safety and accountability throughout the building sector. However, this is just one change that has been enacted in a bid to improve safety. The new building control regime, combined with new compliance requirements under the Building Safety Act 2022, will have a demonstrable effect on building safety. 

Learn More with TCL Chartered Surveyors

To find out more about the role of RBCAs or to ensure your latest project is fully compliant with relevant safety legislation, get in touch with out team now on 020 3176 0029, email us at info@tcl-surveyors.co.uk or send us a message here.