The building control process
Six stages, start to certificate.
Stage 1 of 6Initial Enquiry, Quotation and Scope of Works
Every project starts with a conversation. We'll discuss your proposed works, understand your requirements and establish the information needed to assess your project.
Based on the details provided, we'll work towards agreeing an appropriate description of the works and identifying the relevant building control application route. We'll then provide a quotation outlining the proposed service and associated fees.
What to expectA clear starting point, an agreed scope of works and a better understanding of the next steps.
Stage 2 of 6Initial Notice Submission
Once the quotation and scope have been agreed, the relevant information can be prepared for submission of an initial notice to the local authority, where this route is applicable.
An initial notice is used under the applicable building control process to notify the local authority of the proposed work and the involvement of the relevant registered building control approver. The notice must meet the applicable requirements before the work can proceed under that route.
We'll help coordinate the necessary project information and explain any outstanding requirements so that the submission can progress appropriately.
What to expectGuidance on the information required and coordination of the initial notice submission. We will also require further information at this stage on the principal designer and principal contractor.
Stage 3 of 6Plans Review and Relevant Consultations
The proposed works and supporting documentation are reviewed to help identify relevant building regulations requirements and any areas that may need further information or clarification.
Depending on the nature of the project, this may involve architectural drawings, structural information, fire safety provisions, access arrangements, energy performance details and other technical documents. Relevant consultations may also be necessary where requirements apply.
Where issues or omissions are identified, we'll help communicate the outstanding matters and coordinate responses with the appropriate project professionals.
What to expectClear communication about the information required, outstanding design matters and the steps needed to progress the project through a clear Building Regulation Tracker.
Stage 4 of 6Site Inspections at Key Construction Stages
Building control inspections take place at relevant stages of construction to assess the work against the applicable building regulations requirements.
The inspection stages will depend on the type, scale and complexity of the project. They may include foundations, drainage, structural elements, damp-proofing, insulation, fire safety provisions and other critical elements of the build.
We'll help coordinate the relevant inspection arrangements and maintain communication throughout the process. It's important that the appropriate inspections are requested at the correct stages, before work is covered up or becomes inaccessible for inspection.
What to expectClear guidance on inspection arrangements, relevant construction stages and any matters requiring further attention.
Stage 5 of 6Final Inspection and Completion Documentation
As the project approaches completion, a final inspection will be required to review the completed work and identify any outstanding matters that need to be addressed.
Relevant post-construction information may also need to be collated. Depending on the project, this can include commissioning information, test results, installation certificates, product information, declarations and other supporting documentation.
We'll help identify and coordinate the information required for the applicable completion process, keeping communication clear between the relevant parties and helping to resolve outstanding items.
What to expectGuidance on final inspection arrangements, outstanding work and the documentation needed to progress towards completion.
Stage 6 of 6Final Certification
Once the applicable requirements have been satisfied and the necessary inspections, information and documentation have been accepted by the relevant building control body, the final certificate can be issued by the party legally responsible for issuing it under the applicable route.
We'll help coordinate outstanding matters and communicate with the relevant parties to support progress towards completion.
The timing of certification will depend on the project, the information provided and whether any outstanding matters remain.
What to expectClear communication on outstanding requirements and support through the final stages of the building control process.
Most people meet building control halfway through a build, and only then find out what is expected of them.
Navigating an application can feel complicated, particularly when you are coordinating a project alongside builders, designers and other professionals. Working alongside Midlands Building Control & Consultancy Ltd, we help coordinate the relevant stages, from your initial enquiry through to the completion of the project.
What you end up with
One point of contact. One certificate. No loose ends.
At MKSB CO Ltd we understand the value of having someone who knows your project, understands its progress and can help you navigate the next steps.
A final certificate
The document you will be asked for when you sell, remortgage or insure the property. Keep it somewhere safe.
A regulation tracker
Outstanding design matters and the steps needed to progress, set out clearly rather than buried in an email chain.
The same person throughout
No chasing updates, and no explaining your project again to somebody new halfway through it.
Who we are
A Personal Approach to Building Control.
Over 8 years of industry experience, with one consistent point of contact throughout your project.
Working alongside Midlands Building Control & Consultancy Ltd.
Meet your point of contact →
Projects and feedback
The work behind the words.
The collaboration with Mo has definitely been professional and effective. He showed a proactive approach with the ICT UK1 project at Deeside, Wales, from the beginning of his involvement and through the period spent working together until the achievement of the Practical Completion certificate. I am happy to recommend Mo for any other similar project; moreover, I can confirm ICT will seek his services whenever a second phase of our development in Deeside should take place.
- Project
- Erection of a new paper processing mill comprising two industrial units, link bridge and office buildings.
- Client
- Industrie Cartarie Tronchetti UK
I have worked with Mo over the past three years and have consistently found him to be professional, knowledgeable, and approachable. As a building control inspector, he is thorough, reliable, and always willing to provide clear guidance and advice throughout the inspection process. Mo has excellent attention to detail and communicates effectively, making the whole process smooth and straightforward. His professionalism, experience, and helpful attitude make him a pleasure to work with. I would highly recommend Mo to anyone looking for a knowledgeable, reliable, and professional building control inspector. Excellent service over the past three years!
Darryl TocockSenior Project Manager, N Family Club- Project
- All N Family Club conversions, fit out and change of use projects to form nurseries.
- Client
- N Family Club
Frequently asked questions
The things people ask first.
What does MKSB CO Ltd do?
MKSB CO Ltd provides building control project support, helping homeowners, builders, developers and construction professionals navigate the building control process with greater clarity and confidence.
With over eight years of experience in the building control industry, we understand the importance of clear communication, practical guidance and reliable support throughout a project. Working alongside Midlands Building Control & Consultancy Ltd and its wider network of inspectors, we help coordinate the relevant stages of the process, from initial enquiries and application arrangements through to site inspections and completion requirements.
Our approach is built around providing a personal service, responsive communication and one consistent point of contact who understands your project.
What types of projects do you work with?
We welcome enquiries for a range of building projects, including new-build homes, residential extensions, loft conversions, property alterations, change-of-use projects and larger residential or commercial developments.
Whether you're a homeowner planning an extension, a builder managing a new development or a professional working on a more complex project, we can discuss your requirements and the support you need.
Every project is different, so we'll take the time to understand your proposals and establish whether our services are suitable for your needs.
When should I contact you?
Ideally, you should contact us during the early planning or design stages of your project, before construction begins. Early discussions can help establish the appropriate building control route, identify the information that may be required and clarify the next steps.
However, if your project is past this stage, it's still worth getting in touch. We can discuss the current position, any existing building control arrangements and what support may be available.
The earlier we understand your project, the better we can help you plan the process and identify potential issues before they cause unnecessary delays.
Will I have one point of contact throughout my project?
Yes. Our approach is built around providing you with one consistent main point of contact who understands your project, keeps you informed and helps coordinate communication as the work progresses.
We know how frustrating it can be to chase updates or repeatedly explain your requirements to different people. That's why we place a strong emphasis on continuity, responsiveness and building a good working relationship with every client.
Where input from other inspectors or professionals is needed, we'll help coordinate communication with the relevant parties, so you have a clear point of contact and a better understanding of what happens next.
Who will I be dealing with?
You'll deal directly with our main point of contact, a Registered Building Inspector with over eight years of experience in the building control industry, holding Class 3G and Class 4 specialist registration.
By working directly with you, we aim to provide a more personal and responsive service, with someone who understands your project and can help guide you through the relevant stages.
MKSB CO Ltd also works alongside Midlands Building Control & Consultancy Ltd and a wider network of inspectors across the UK. This collaborative approach combines personal service with access to broader professional support where required.
Do you work across the UK?
Through our working relationship with Midlands Building Control & Consultancy Ltd and its wider network of inspectors, we can discuss projects in different parts of the UK.
The arrangements available will depend on the project's location, nature and requirements, as well as the appropriate building control route. Get in touch with your site location and a brief description of your proposed works, and we'll discuss how we may be able to assist.
Where formal building control functions are required, the relevant registered building control approver or other legally responsible building control body will be identified as appropriate.
What is an initial notice?
An initial notice is a formal notification used in England for eligible building work where a registered building control approver is undertaking the relevant building control functions. It is submitted to the local authority and sets out the proposed work and the building control arrangements.
The notice must meet the applicable legal requirements before work can proceed under this route. The project information, supporting documents and any relevant consultations will depend on the nature and complexity of the proposed works.
We can help explain the process, identify the information needed and coordinate the relevant arrangements alongside the appropriate building control professionals.
What happens during site inspections?
Site inspections take place at relevant stages of construction to assess the work against applicable building regulations requirements. The inspection stages will depend on the type and complexity of your project.
Depending on the works, inspections may involve foundations, drainage, structural elements, damp-proofing, insulation, fire safety provisions and other key construction details. Inspections may also be required when the project is nearing completion.
It's important to arrange inspections at the appropriate stages, particularly before work is covered up or becomes inaccessible. We'll help clarify the relevant inspection arrangements and communicate any matters requiring further information, investigation or remedial work.
The precise inspection arrangements and any formal decisions remain the responsibility of the relevant building control body.
How much does building control cost?
The cost depends on the type and scale of your project, its complexity, the stage it has reached and the level of consultancy or project support required.
Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach, we aim to understand your requirements before providing a quotation based on the agreed scope of services. Any applicable building control fees or charges should be clearly distinguished from our consultancy fees and identified in the quotation where relevant.
For an accurate quotation, contact us with a brief overview of your project. We'll discuss your requirements and explain the proposed service and associated costs before you decide how to proceed.
What information do you need to provide a quote?
To help us understand your project and prepare an appropriate quotation, it would be useful to provide the site location, a description of works, an anticipated programme of works to assist with inspection planning, any available drawings, and the project team details. Client, principal designer and principal contractor details are key, as this information needs to be reflected on our initial notice to the local authority.
Don't worry if you don't have all this information yet. An initial enquiry is a good place to start. Tell us what you know about your project, and we'll help identify any further information needed.
Ready to discuss your project? Request a quotation →