A poster campaign aimed at highlighting the importance of building control and the role it plays in creating a safe environment has been launched.
The monthly campaign will run over the next year, and begins with advice for owners of multi-fuel stoves, asking people to ensure they are installed and signed off correctly to prevent the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Topics in future months will cover loft conversions, security, condensation, fire safety and saving energy, as well as the building control process itself and the support available in applying for and gaining approval.
Posters will be available on the Planning and Building Control Facebook page and at public buildings and other locations appropriate to the particular topics.
Building control is distinct from planning permission. It regulates construction processes, ensuring that the building has a safe structure, and there are some instances where a building regulations application would be required and a planning application would not, and vice versa.
Standards must be met in the construction of all types of buildings, addressing matters such as the foundations, damp proofing, fire protection, disabled access and water use, with the ultimate aim of protecting the health and safety of people who will use the building.
The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture is engaged in promoting construction in the Isle of Man and hopes the poster campaign will lead to greater awareness of the legal requirements and support available to anyone undertaking a construction project, as well as fulfilling a commitment contained within the Programme for Government to support people to make their homes and businesses more energy efficient.
Geoffrey Boot MHK, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said: ‘Many people think of just planning permission and can overlook the requirements of building control when undertaking projects.
‘Officers are available to support people through applying for approval and we hope this year-long campaign will help make people more aware of what is legally required to see a project through successfully – and safely.’
For more information on building control, email buildingcontrol@gov.im or call 686446.
