Demolition - control and advice

Legislation relating to controlled demolitions is administered by the Building Control Section to ensure that the work is undertaken safely and that the relevant statutory undertakers and interested parties are notified of the proposed demolition.

This service has its legal basis set out in Sections 80, 81 and 82 of the 1984 Building Act. (In some cases, prior consent is also required from the Council under the Town & Country Planning Act). This legislation requires the person carrying out the demolition formally to notify the Council and any adjoining owners of the intention to demolish.

The Council can, when it is considered necessary, require any adjoining buildings that may have become exposed as a result of the demolition, to be shored up and weatherproofed. Requirements can also be made regarding the removal of materials and rubbish from the demolition site, the disconnection and sealing of drains and general making good of the surface of the ground previously occupied by the building.

Failure to give notice of intention of demolition, or to comply with the Council's requirements, is a serious matter. When these requirements are not complied with the Council can use its enforcement powers.

If you are going to demolish a building that is greater than 50m³ then you are required to give us 6 weeks notice by completing a  Section 80 Notice [31kb]. Please return the notice to building.control@exeter.gov.uk or post to

Building Control
Exeter City Council
Paris Street
Exeter
Ex1 1JJ