Commencement Notices and 7 Day Notices
In accordance with the Building Control Regulations, a Commencement Notice or a 7 Day Notice with a 7 Day Statutory Declaration needs to be submitted prior to commencement of the development.
Please note: In accordance with the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations (S.I. 9 of 2014) from the 1st March 2014 new Commencement Notice procedures apply.
Notices should be completed online on the National Building Control Management System (BCMS)
A Commencement Notice must be received by the Building Control Authority not less than 14 days and not more than 28 days before work commences.
Requirements for a Commencement Notice
Commencement Notices are required for the following:
- Construction of a building
- A material alteration of a building
- An extension to a building
- A material change of use of a building
- Works in connection with the material alteration (excluding minor works) of a shop, office or industrial building where a Fire Safety Certificate is not required
However, you DO NOT need to submit a Commencement Notice if:
- the works are exempt from the Building Regulations OR
- you Do Not require Planning Permission and also Do Not require a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC)
Single Dwellings and Extensions to Dwellings
Under S.I. 365 of 2015, which came into effect on the 1st September 2015, owners of new single dwellings, on a single development unit, and domestic extensions, may opt out of the requirements for statutory certification. Compliance with Building Regulations must still be achieved and Building Control Procedures still apply.
For more information please visit the BCMS website.
Information and further guidance can be found on the information note for owners of new dwellings and extensions who opt out of Statutory Certification for building control purposes.
Related Links
Guide to Building Control System - FAQS
BCMS - FAQS
Code of Practice for inspecting and certifying buildings and works