Guidance on Completion Certificates for Construction Work

The Building Safety Regulator (BSR) has issued updated guidance on applying for completion certificates for construction work on higher-risk buildings (HRBs) in England. This guidance is essential for ensuring compliance with building safety standards and maintaining the integrity of construction projects.

Understanding Completion Certificates

Completion certificates are crucial documents that confirm building work complies with applicable building regulations. They are required for projects involving higher-risk buildings, which include structures with at least two residential units, hospitals, or care homes. According to the GOV.UK Building Safety Regulator, a completion certificate must be obtained before such buildings can be occupied.

Types of Completion Certificates

There are two types of completion certificates: full and partial. A full completion certificate is necessary when a new HRB is constructed or when building work on an existing HRB is completed. A partial completion certificate can be applied for if a partial completion strategy was included in the building approval control application. Any changes to this strategy must be submitted to BSR for approval.

Applying for Completion Certificates

To apply for a completion certificate, applicants must use the online service provided by BSR. This process requires the building control approval application reference and access to the email address used for the original application. Applicants must provide a summary of the completed work, including the completion date, and upload relevant documents such as the building regulations compliance statement and fire compliance statement, if applicable.

Additionally, compliance declarations signed by the principal designer and contractor, as well as a client confirmation statement, must be included. These documents affirm that the building work meets the relevant regulations. A statement confirming the handover of building information to the responsible person is also required.

Specific Guidance for Mobile Communications Mast Work

For contractors and installers working on mobile communications masts on existing HRBs, specific guidance is available. A completion certificate must be applied for after the installation is complete. This includes work related to the mast's structural components, fire stopping, and weatherproofing. The application process involves emailing BSR with the subject line ‘Mobile mast gateway 3’ and providing detailed supporting documents.

Practical Takeaways

• Ensure all building work on HRBs complies with the latest building regulations.

• Apply for the correct type of completion certificate (full or partial) based on your project.

• Use the online service for managing building control applications.

• For mobile communications mast work, ensure compliance with specific BSR guidance.