Building Regulations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 24 March 2015

Tuesday, 24 March 2015

Questions (908, 917)

Shane Ross

Question:

908. Deputy Shane Ross asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when the proposed review of the building standards regulations Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014, SI 9 of 2014, will take place; with particular emphasis on whether the need for a B(C)AR certifier will continue under the reviewed regulations; his views on the heavy costs associated with the B(C)AR certifier, especially for those who own small private properties (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11927/15]

Patrick O'Donovan

Question:

917. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the progress made in reviewing the inspection process for the new building regulations; when a decision is due to be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12024/15]

Written answers

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

I propose to take Questions Nos. 908 and 917 together.

My Department has given preliminary consideration to the arrangements in place for oversight of new single dwellings and extensions to existing dwellings in advance of the anticipated full formal review of the broader operation of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No. 9 of 2014).

While costs are determined by market forces and are therefore outside of the scope of my regulatory powers, I recognise the importance of ensuring that the regulations do not impact unduly on one-off housing and extensions to dwellings, particularly in relation to cost. I expect to announce the commencement of the review very shortly.