Welcome to Magherafelt District Council Building Control

The Building Control Department is responsible for enforcing building regulations that deal with all practical matters relating to the construction of a building/extension or works. Issues considered include fire safety, thermal insulation, structural stability, drainage, facilities for the disabled, and stairs. Street naming and numbering, dangerous structures, and property certificates for the conveyance of buildings being sold are also dealt with.

The Building Regulations help ensure that structures are built and can be used safely. Building Regulations approval is required when:

Building a new dwelling
Changing the use of a building to a dwelling
Building an extension, e.g. lounge, kitchen, etc
Changing the internal structure, by removing load-bearing supporting walls
Putting in a bathroom, shower, toilet or drains
Putting in heaters requiring flues, or unvented hot water systems

Adding a new chimney or flue
Converting roof space into living accommodation, or carry out structural alterations within the roof space
Putting new windows in the walls or roof
Putting in cavity wall insulation
Underpinning the foundations
Re-covering a roof with a heavier or lighter roofing material

Note: Any building work associated with most types of structures, or work that involves the change of use of buildings, usually requires Building Regulation approval.