Dangerous Structures & Public Safety
The term 'dangerous structure' covers buildings or parts of buildings. It also includes garden walls, fences or hoardings, in fact any built structure that because of its condition could endanger the public.
Buildings, like people, suffer from an ageing process, which can result in the structure becoming weaker. Buildings or structures can become dangerous as a result of poor maintenance, fire, storm, vehicle impact or explosion.
Reporting a possible dangerous structure
You need to report the problem by calling 01643 703704. West Somerset Council is here to help and ensure the safety of the public when a dangerous structure or building is identified. The council's building control officers can offer advice and guidance to property owners.
Where necessary the council can require the owner of the dangerous structure to make it safe or, in an emergency, take direct action to remove the danger under powers contained in Sections 77 and 78 of The Building Act 1984.
If you are a building owner or their agent, what will the building control officer do?
A building control officer will visit the site to inspect the structure and arrange for the appropriate action to be taken to maintain public safety.
If the structure is considered potentially dangerous, the owner of the building or structure will be contacted and asked to arrange for removal of it or for repairs to be carried out. A letter to confirm what action is needed and by when will be sent to you.
If the structure is considered to be in imminent danger of collapse or part has already collapsed, the building control officer will try to contact the owner of the building or structure to require their urgent action in removing the danger. If the owner is unavailable, unable or unwilling to arrange for the danger to be removed, the officer will arrange for the council's contractors to take the minimum action necessary to remove the danger. This action can often involve putting up barriers or fencing to keep people away from the dangerous area until a more permanent solution is found. All actions taken will be confirmed in writing and if available, the owner will be advised of the likely cost involved.
To report a dangerous structure, please complete the online Dangerous Structures Notification form.
Out of hours emergencies
In the event of an emergency (dangerous structures, flooding issues, etc) the following telephone number can be called: Magna Careline (who administer the calls) tel: (01305) 266821, the duty officer will then be contacted and will call you back.
Feedback
We are always looking for ways to improve the Building Control service. Please let us know what you think about our service by completing the Building Control satisfaction survey on our West Somerset Says website.