Dangerous Structures

Section 77 of the Building Act empowers a Local Authority to deal with a building or structure which is in a potentially dangerous condition. The definition of a building or structure has been the subject of numerous legal debates, but may include the whole building or only part of it.

The Building Standards and Control Department has responsibility under the Building Act 1984 for ensuring that dangerous structures reported to them are dealt with so that no threat is posed to people in the vicinity.

Once a report is received, an experienced Building Control Officer will visit the site as soon as possible to assess the danger and associated risks. If immediate action is needed to remove the danger, e.g. a wall is in danger of collapse, Section 78 of the Act gives us the power to have the danger removed, e.g. the structure demolished or barricaded off. If (as is often the case) the structure is found to be in poor condition but not dangerous at the time of inspection, we can advise the owner, or serve notice under Section 77, to have him/her undertake repairs within a reasonable time.

This public protection service is a 24 hour service, 365 days a year. Most call-outs out of office hours are requested via the Police or Fire Service.

For more information or advice contact us.