Building Control registration data shows a growing trend of professionals joining the registered ranks, highlighting the industry’s dedication to maintaining high standards.The extension of the transition period allowed industry professionals ample time to adapt to the new requirements at a reasonable pace, ensuring they could continue providing essential services without disruption.
As of 30th July 2024, there were 4,049 building professionals registered as building inspectors in England and Wales. These Registered Building Inspectors are committed to adhering to the Code of Conduct.
The registration breakdown is as follows:
- Class 1 (Trainee): 1,971
- Class 2 (Registered Building Inspector): 1,614
- Class 3 (Specialist Building Inspector): 464
- Class 4 (Building Inspector – Technical Manager): 516
Commenting on the latest figures, Ged Cooper, BSR Head of Building Control Professional Standards, stated, “We are encouraged by this steady increase in numbers and pleased to see consistent success in Class 2 and Class 3. It’s also heartening that many are progressing to Class 4 technical managers. We expect this positive trend to continue.”
“BSR is committed to being a fair and pragmatic regulator. The decision to extend the period for building inspectors to complete their competency assessments underscores our dedication to a supportive regulatory environment and ensuring fairness in building control.”
Building Control Bodies are required to seek regulatory advice from Class 2 or Class 3 RBIs to perform their duties effectively. The BSR has begun investigations and inspections of these bodies, requiring evidence to confirm they have the necessary resources to fulfil their regulatory responsibilities.
During the transition period, the BSR acknowledged the challenges faced by the sector. This included allowing a limited number of professionals who had completed the competency assessment process by the 6th July deadline, but were awaiting their results, to continue performing the restricted activities for which they had been assessed.
Looking ahead, Ged Cooper remarked, “As an enabling regulator, the BSR focuses on facilitating compliance and supporting building control professionals with clear regulatory pathways and frameworks. Building control plays a crucial role in the construction process, and we value the contribution of building inspectors in assisting Building Control Bodies.”
“The profession is entering a transformative era, with unified and consistent standards making it an attractive career choice. Enhanced professional standards will lead to stronger compliance with building regulations, setting high standards as the norm, rather than the exception.”
BSR believes that increased transparency and accountability within the building control sector will boost public confidence and trust, ensuring that building work is rigorously and consistently regulated. This improved status is expected to attract new professionals to the sector and help retain existing talent, contributing to a more robust and effective building control landscape.
