09 February 2012Buildings or structures may become dangerous due to a variety of causes including general decay, storm damage, fire, vehicle impact, explosion or a general structural failure. Following an inspection, if the structure is found to be immediately dangerous and poses a potential threat to the general public, the Building Control Officer may take the necessary action to remove the danger or mitigate the danger by securing the area.
If there is no immediate danger, but action is required to make the building or structure safe in the short-term, the officer may apply to the Magistrates' Court for an order requiring the owner to carry out works. If the owner fails to respond, the Council may carry out the work in default. Any costs incurred may be recoverable from the owner.
If you wish to report a dangerous structure, please contact the Building Control Section, or for outside office hours, call the Council's out of hours emergency line on 01732 462222.
