Government Proposal Would See Residential Construction (Self-Build Homes & Extensions) Exempt from New Building Regulations
The Building Control Amendment Regulations 2013 were introduced early last year to give protection to home buyers following the major controversy generated following such Residential Construction schemes as the Priory Hall Development.
Critics of the regulations have pointed to the additional costs – up to €16,000 for inspections according to the Irish Independent – as being an unfair burden on home builders. It is this light that the government are proposing exemptions.
It must be highlighted that should the regulations be lifted buyers would have very little in the way of protection.
Alternatives to proposed exemptions to the regulations include broadening the range of professionals qualified as ‘assigned certifiers’ to certify that buildings are compliant during the construction phase, as well as giving owners an opt-out clause.
According to a spokesman for the Housing Minister Paudie Coffey, there have been no firm decisions taken at this stage and the matter is still under public consultation.
For further information on all Residential Construction projects currently in planning, approved or commenced visit the Building Information Ireland website and register for a free 10 day trial to our building projects app.
Building Information Ireland research and publish data on all residential construction activity as well as all other building sectors and across all 32 counties in Ireland.
