Building Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 4 February 2015

Wednesday, 4 February 2015

Questions (164)

Maureen O'Sullivan

Question:

164. Deputy Maureen O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government in relation to the building of a domestic extension for a family member and two small children who were made homeless and are on the housing waiting list for a private family home, if there is an exemption for the requirement of a design-and-assign certifier which involves a costly fee of €3,000 to oversee the works of the builder of the extension, which is under 60 sq. m; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5056/15]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government

In accordance with the Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2014, an extension to a dwelling involving a floor area greater than 40 square metres and which does not constitute exempted development for planning purposes, requires statutory certification by a registered professional for building control purposes. The fee for the professional services is determined by market forces and consumers are advised to shop around to get most favourable quote having regard to quality of service and cost. I have indicated that I am receptive to addressing concerns regarding the cost burden of the building control regulations in the case of one-off dwellings and extensions to dwellings. I have instructed my Department to review this aspect as a matter of priority and I expect to receive the outcome of this review this month.