Tag: Building Control

DBCP Triumphs at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprentice Awards

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Derbyshire Building Control Partnership (DBCP) is celebrating a night of success after being name SME Employer of the Year at the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprentice Awards, held on 2 October at the Village Hotel in Nottingham.

The glittering awards ceremony, hosted by Capital FM DJ Tom Watts, recognised achievements across 14 categories and celebrated the very best of apprenticeships in the region.

Individual Success for Harvey and Charlotte

DBCP’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of building control professionals was also highlighted as two of its apprentices received recognition on the night.

Harvey Ellis, a Level 5 Building Control Apprentice was shortlisted in the Higher Apprentice category.

Charlotte Gladwin, also a Level 5 Building Control Apprentice, was shortlisted in the Health and Public Service Apprentice category.

Both were up against strong competition, demonstrating the strength of DBCP’s apprenticeship programme.

A Major Win for DBCP

The spotlight shone brightest, however, when DBCP was announced as the winner of SME Employer of the Year, cementing its reputation as a leading force in training and development within the sector.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised at the awards. To have two of our apprentices – Charlotte and Harvey – shortlisted was amazing and testament to the strength of our apprentice training programme which we have built from the ground up over the last seven years. It is wonderful to see many of our original apprentices now becoming fully qualified building inspectors, particularly in an industry that is suffering from an acute skills shortage.”

Apprenticeships at the Heart of DBCP

Apprentices now make up a quarter of DBCP’s workforce, with nine apprentices employed across a range of disciplines and levels – from Level 3 Business Administration to Level 6 Building Control Surveying Degree Apprenticeships.

Working both alongside experience and qualified surveyors on-site and in technical roles within the office, DBCP’s apprentices are not just learning – they are making meaningful contributions to real projects that shape communities across Derbyshire and the Staffordshire Moorlands.

David added: “Apprenticeships are not an add-on at DBCP; they are embedded in our long-term strategy. We view apprentices not only as valuable contributors today, but as the future leaders of Building Control. Their development supports our goal of future-proofing the workforce, ensuring service excellence, and adapting to an increasingly complex regulatory landscape.”

Positive Impact on DBCP and Its Clients

The benefits of DBCP’s apprenticeship programme are far reaching. Apprentices bring fresh energy and new perspectives to the company, provide support to DBCP’s Registered Inspectors and technical teams, increase capacity and bring new talent to the sector.

Clients have also recognised the value of the programme. Ama Mandeir, Managing Director of Falcon Homes, commented: “With all of the recent changes in Building Control, there’s been a mass exodus of personnel and experience from the sector. DBCP is investing in the next generation with apprentice inspectors. That’s great to see – it brings fresh talent into Building Control and keeps the profession strong.”

Start Your Career in Building Control with LABC and DBCP

DBCP is proud to work in close partnership with LABC (Local Authority Building Control) – the national organisation representing all local authority building control teams in England and Wales. Together, they are training the next generation of building inspectors through the LABC Academy, launched in 2023.

The Academy has already created more than 150 placements, including one with Harvey Ellis, who began as an LABC Trainee before joining DBCP permanently. His journey shows the real opportunities available for those starting out in Building Control.

LABC is now recruiting for its next intake of trainees, beginning in December 2025. The two-year Academy programme combines studying for Level 4 and Level 5 Diplomas in Building Control Surveying with invaluable hands-on experience at local authority building control departments. As part of this, some trainees will undertake their practical training with DBCP, gaining direct experience on real projects that shape communities across Derbyshire and the Staffordshire Moorlands.

If you’re interested in a career in Building Control, take the first step here

Registered Building Inspector Luke Merrey joins DBCP

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Registered Building Inspector Luke Merrey has joined DBCP’s inspections team. In his new role, Luke will work alongside DBCP’s team of Registered Building Inspectors covering West Derbyshire, which includes High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands.

His key responsibilities will include plan checking and site inspections to ensure work complies with building regulations. He will also provide advice and support to applicants to ensure developments comply with Building Regulations as well as maintaining detailed records of inspections and project details.

Luke joins DBCP from Nottingham City Council, where he was on secondment as a Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Trainee Building Control Surveyor. As part of his training, he also spent time at Leicester City Council, developing his skills in regulatory compliance and building safety.

He achieved 2A Registered Status with the Building Safety Competence Foundation (BSCF) earlier this year. In addition to the industry-recognised qualification, Luke was also awarded a Distinction in the CIOB Level 4 Diploma in Building Control Surveying. He is also soon to complete his Level 5 Diploma, with his sights set on achieving 2F status.

In addition to being a Level 2A Registered Building Inspector, Luke boasts a previous career in property sales and lettings, giving him a strong overview of the sector’s requirements. Prior to entering the building control profession, Luke spent six years in residential sales, rising to the position of Sales Manager for an East Midlands franchise of a national network of independently owned estate and letting agents.

Luke said: “I’m thrilled to start my new role and continue my journey in Building Control. I wish I’d found out about Building Control when I was at school, I am genuinely passionate about all areas of the sector. Seeing my knowledge grow through the LABC Academy Scheme has been amazing and I am delighted to bring my learning and experience to architects, builders and property owners throughout High Peak and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

Luke’s appointment underscores DBCP’s continued focus on strengthening building control services in the region through investment in skilled and qualified professionals. Nationally, the sector is suffering a skills shortage due to the introduction of tightened regulations following the Grenfell tragedy and the subsequent inquiry.

DBCP is the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, having the largest team of qualified registered inspectors.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, welcomed Luke to the team saying: “We are delighted to have Luke on board. He has a deep understanding of the sector from both an inspector and property manager perspective. He is a great addition to our growing team of qualified building control surveyors.”

Outside work, Luke enjoys walks in the hills around his hometown of Belper with his wife and their Glen of Imaal Terrier, Nora. He is also a season ticket holder at Derby County and can often be found spoiling a good walk on the golf-course.

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team here or call 0333 880 2000. 

DBCP’s Apprenticeship Programme Recognised with Triple Shortlisting at the 2025 Apprenticeship Awards

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The success of DBCP’s apprenticeship programme has been recognised in the prestigious Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025.

Two Level 5 Building Control apprentices, as well as the company have been shortlisted in three award categories:

  • Charlotte Gladwin – Health & Public Service Apprentice of the Year
  • Harvey Ellis – Higher Apprentice of the Year
  • DBCP – SME Employer of the Year

The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on Thursday 2 October 2025 at The Village Hotel, Nottingham

As the leading firm of building control services for Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands, the recognition highlights DBCP’s commitment to investing in talent and nurturing future professionals within the Building Control sector. 

Launched in 2018, DBCP’s apprenticeship programme is playing a vital role in addressing industry-wide skills shortages and safeguarding the future of the Building Control profession.

Apprentices now represent a quarter of DBCP’s workforce. We currently employ 9 apprentices across a range of disciplines and levels, from Level 2 Business Administration to Level 6 Building Control Surveying Degree Apprenticeships.

This latest awards shortlisting builds on a year of recognition for DBCP. In January, David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager, was awarded the Public Service Superstar title at the LABC Building Excellence Awards Grand Final, a national honour that underscores his dedication to professional development and apprenticeship leadership.

David was praised by LABC judges for setting the bar high and inspiring team members, implementing the apprenticeship schemes, and championing continuous learning across the organisation. 

Additionally, DBCP won Team of the Year, while Charlotte Gladwin was named LABC Newcomer of the Year 2024 just 12 months after starting her apprenticeship. Judges recognising her “exceptional proactivity, dedication, and customer-focused approach.”

Chalotte’s mentor, Building Control Surveyor Nigel Cassidy, commented: “Charlotte’s changed the way I work and think about apprentices. Now, I wouldn’t be without one.”

Delighted to be shortlisted in the Derbyshire & Nottinghamshire Apprenticeship Awards 2025, David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, said: “I could not be prouder of Charlotte and Harvey. They’ve both come such a long way since starting with us, showing real commitment to learning and growing in their careers. These nominations reflect their efforts, but also the dedication of the whole DBCP team, from admin through to our senior surveyors, who support and mentor our apprentices every step of the way. It’s fantastic recognition for the culture of learning and development we’re building here at DBCP.”

Find the full list of finalists here.

Building a Legacy: Salinda Kaur’s 40-year blueprint for success in Building Control

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A member of DBCP’s team is celebrating a significant career milestone this year. 2025 sees Business Operations Manager, Salinda Kaur reach 40 years in the building control sector delivering building control services across Derbyshire.

She has been a key part of DBCP’s technical team since the business was established in 2017, joining from Derby City Council, where she began her career in Building Control.

David Pratt, DBCP’s Building Control Manager, added: “Salinda’s dedication and hard work have made a significant impact not only on our team but also on the many clients that she has guided over the years. We are incredibly grateful for her unwavering commitment.

Starting Out

For any young person soon to leave school and considering a career path, read about Salinda’s route which is as relevant today as it was in 1985.

Salinda’s journey began on 15 April 1985, when she joined the finance department at Derby City Council. On her second day in the job, she was asked to assist the Building Control admin team due to a staffing shortage. Over 14,600 days later, Salinda is still happy at her work, supporting clients and colleagues.

Salinda recalled: “Initially I had no idea what Building Control was all about. I was soon up to speed and I knew really quickly that it was a great fit for me. I’ve always loved all things property and development. Seeing what is happening in the neighbourhoods around me, getting insights into architects plans and designs – I was in my element. I didn’t know it at the time, but I had just stepped into my forever career.”

A Sinking Feeling

Having spent 40 years helping deliver Building Control services across Derbyshire, it will come as no surprise that Salinda has experienced ups and downs. Early in her career, Salinda was taken on a site visit to see for herself the steps during a construction build and to gain understanding of the stages of inspection required.

This trip, on a winter’s day, would go on to play a defining role in Salinda’s career choices moving forward. Salinda recalled: “For any new starter in this sector, it is vital to get out on site and see for yourself the role of Building Control in action. It was such an important part of my training; knowing the processes and procedures meant that I would be able to understand the concerns and requests of both the clients and the inspectors.”

Salinda found this trip to be enlightening in more than one way. She explained: “As my colleague went across the site to have a word with the contractors, I waited patiently for them to come back. Before I could do anything about it, I realised that my wellington boots were quickly sinking into the winter mud, with me in them! The builders kindly pulled me out, however, my wellington boots remained in the mud. I was soon back in the warm, wearing my own mud-free stiletto heels. From that moment on, I knew that I wanted to work ‘off-site’ in the Building Control HQ.”

Despite the initial ‘sinking feeling’, Salinda’s determination and willingness to learn quickly made her an invaluable asset to the team. Her ability to handle situations with efficiency and sense of humour set the stage for her future success.

Unsurprisingly, Salinda has been office-based since. In her role of Operations Manager she provides logistical support to ensure the smooth operation of DBCP, helping to manage applications and inspections, as well as overseeing the IT database systems, Accounts, reporting, and communication with stakeholders.  

Cornerstone Moments

Over the past four decades, Salinda’s expertise and guidance have been invaluable to both her colleagues and the many clients she has assisted through the building control process.

Salinda’s career to date has spanned a significant period of change in the industry. Firstly, the formation of Derbyshire Building Control Partnership (DBCP) in 2017. DBCP came to life through the successful amalgamation of expertise from six Local Authority building control departments into one cohesive organisation.

DBCP has since expanded to include two further building control departments – Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and High Peak Borough Council, making it the leading provider of building control services across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

This transition aimed to streamline services and enhance efficiency across the region by providing consistent, high-quality building control services, ensuring safety and compliance in construction projects.

As Business Operations Manager, Salinda played a crucial role during this complex process, with the administration challenges not to be underestimated. Each Local Authority had their own IT database systems and these had to be integrated into a single one. With the help and support of her colleagues, Salinda rose to the challenge

Salinda explained: “Within six months, we had ensured a smooth and successful integration of the various systems into one, centralised IT database system. I really enjoyed working on this project. I enjoy a challenge and won’t let anything stop me when I’ve set my mind to it.”

The second seismic change to the sector during Salinda’s career came post-Grenfell disaster with the introduction of the The Building Safety Act 2022. This regulatory framework demanded several key changes to building regulations; aiming to enhance safety to ensure compliance with modern standards.

Salinda and her colleagues, had to re-evaluate the processes of gathering and logging information, as well as collating a range of inspector qualifications and documents required by the law.

The changes and their impact have required clear communication by DBCP, with Salinda and her colleagues, providing assistance to builders, architects and homeowners, advising the best way to get their paperwork in order.

Salinda explained: “The Building Safety Act 2022 changed so much of our role within the construction industry. The landscape of our remit was redefined and I have been proud to be part of the dynamic team at DBCP who have risen to the challenge and ensured that the quality service that we provide to our communities has continued into this new era.”

Next Move

As Salinda celebrates her 40-year career milestone, she reflects on her Building Control journey, Salinda shared: “I am grateful for the opportunities and experiences I have had over the past 40 years. Working with such a dedicated team and helping our clients navigate the building control process has been immensely rewarding. I look forward to continuing to contribute to our team’s success and supporting our community.”

Congratulating Salinda on her career milestone, David Pratt added: “Thank you for everything you do for us at DBCP.”

For expert building control advice and guidance, please get in touch with the DBCP team here or call 0333 880 2000. 

Laying solid foundations for a successful build – 12 tips for choosing the right builder for your project

Posted on by DBCP.anna.melton

Choosing the right builder for your project will significantly impact the outcome of your renovation, extension, or new build, says DBCP, the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

With an ageing population and the growth in home working in the UK, many homeowners are choosing to adapt their existing homes and increase accessibility, like Joanna Peace, a Chesterfield homeowner who used DBCP for her recent home extension.

She said: “I wanted a builder and architect who both understood how important it was to me to remain in my home in later life as we love the location. As well as being practical and adaptable, it also had to look good inside and out. Build quality was absolutely key for me as it was a huge financial investment.”

Whether it’s a small home improvement or a large construction project, selecting a skilled, reliable, and trustworthy builder can save you time, money, and stress at every stage.

Collaboration between homeowners, builders, architects and building control is now absolutely critical as DBCP’s Building Control Manager David Pratt explained: “Recent changes to Building Regulations mean that builders, architects, and building control professionals now share responsibility for the build quality, longevity, and safety of a structure. This collaboration is essential to ensuring projects meet the highest standards.”

Here are DBCP’s top tips to help you choose the right builder for your project:

1. Know what you need

Before contacting builders, define the scope of your project. Are you extending your home, renovating a room, or building from scratch? Knowing your requirements will help you select a builder with the appropriate expertise. Determine whether your project requires a specialist builder or a general contractor.

2. Check credentials and qualifications

Ensure your builder has the necessary qualifications and certifications. For instance:

3. Review past work and references

Ask for examples of completed projects and contact past clients for feedback. Joanna Peace, a Chesterfield homeowner who recently completed an extension with DBCP oversight, shares her experience: “I really liked that my builder engaged with DBCP from the start. It gave me confidence that I had chosen the right person. My architect, Martin Rix from MAD Architects LLP, emphasised the importance of using a builder who worked with DBCP because of their reputation for being thorough.”

David Pratt also advises: “Always go and see the past work undertaken by any builder you may be thinking of engaging. I would also recommend that you look to see if they are also members of professional bodies like Trading Standards, and the Federation of Master Builders.”

4. Get multiple quotes

Request quotes from several builders and compare them. Avoid choosing solely based on price—consider the quote’s detail, including materials, labour, timeline, and potential additional costs. Always get quotes in writing.

“I got three quotes in total,” said Joanna, “and I choose my builder because I felt his quote was realistic rather than cheap, my architect had worked with him before, he used DBCP for inspections, and I liked him as a person which was important as I knew that he was going to be in my home for six months doing the build.”

5. Check insurance and warranties

Verify that your builder has public liability insurance, employer’s liability insurance, and building insurance. Ask about warranties on work and materials to protect against potential issues after completion.

6. Understand the timeline

Discuss start and completion dates with your builder. Reliable builders provide realistic schedules and stick to them. Be cautious of promises to complete work unusually quickly, as it may indicate poor planning.

7. Evaluate communication skills

Effective communication is critical throughout the project. Choose a builder who listens, responds promptly, and provides clear explanations. Good communication builds trust and ensures a smooth process.

8. Consider local, independent builders

Local builders often have better knowledge of local regulations and suppliers and maintain strong relationships with professionals like architects and tradespeople. They’re also invested in their community reputation.

9. Beware of red flags

Watch for warning signs, such as:

  • Reluctance to provide references or qualifications.
  • Requests for large upfront payments.
  • Lack of a written contract.
  • Unrealistically low quotes.

If something feels off, trust your instincts and explore other options.

10. Check contracts and agreements

Ensure all agreements are documented in a contract outlining the scope of work, timeline, payment schedule, and dispute resolution procedures. Both parties should sign the contract, and you should retain a copy.

11. Consider accessibility needs 

If your project involves creating or renovating a space, it’s important to prioritise accessibility, especially for individuals with disabilities or limited mobility. Discuss with your builder the inclusion of features such as: 

  • Ramps or step-free access. 
  • Wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs. 
  • Accessible bathrooms with grab rails and non-slip flooring. 
  • Lever-style door handles for ease of use. 

A builder experienced in designing for accessibility can help you ensure that the finished project is inclusive and future-proof. 

12. Ensure the builder has an existing relationship with a building control services provider 

Choose a builder who already has an established relationship with a registered and recognised building control services provider, like DBCP. This ensures that the highest standards of safety and building control are upheld throughout your project. This will benefit your project in the following ways:

  • Proven Compliance: Builders with existing relationships are more likely to be familiar with and adhere to building regulations, ensuring your project meets all legal requirements.
  • Streamlined Inspections: Regular inspections by a trusted building control provider can be more efficiently coordinated, helping to identify and address issues promptly.
  • Reliable Certification: Builders who work closely with building control services can ensure that your project is properly certified, which is crucial for legal compliance and future property transactions.

By selecting a builder with a strong connection to a recognised and respected building control services provider, you can have greater confidence in the quality and safety of your construction project.

building control for builders

Selecting the right builder is essential for the success of your project. By researching thoroughly, verifying credentials, and fostering strong communication, you can ensure your project is in safe hands.

DBCP is here to support you every step of the way. As David Pratt highlights, “Working closely with a reputable building control provider like DBCP ensures compliance, safety, and peace of mind for homeowners and builders alike.”

To find out more about how DBCP can support with your construction or renovation project, or to arrange a building regulations inspection in Derbyshire or Staffordshire Moorlands, get in touch with our team here

Apprenticeship puts Amy on path to develop a career in Building Control

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DBCP’s successful apprenticeship scheme is helping address the chronic shortage of building inspectors.

In a drive to foster in-house talent and address industry skill shortages, DBCP has celebrated yet another of its apprentices successfully completing their apprenticeship and moving on to the next level.

Amy Walton (18), a member of DBCP’s technical team, has achieved her Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship. The completion of the apprenticeship has now put her on the career path to eventually becoming a Building Control inspector.

Amy will start the LABC Level 3 Technical Support for Public Service Building Standards Certificate in the New Year.

She said: “I knew nothing about Building Control when I started working at DBCP. It is fascinating. I’ve asked so many questions this year because I’ve wanted to learn about the inspection process and the various roles within it. I love the fact that DBCP is helping to shape the built environment around us. Having that insight helped me consider becoming a building inspector as a career. I can’t wait to start my LABC training.”

Amy joined DBCP last year, making the transition from a college course in make-up artistry to Building Control. She explained: “My dad is a builder and works with DBCP to complete projects. He thought I’d find Building Control interesting so encouraged me to apply for the apprenticeship. He was right.”

Delighted that Amy has chosen to continue her career development at both DBCP and within the Building Control sector, DBCP’s Building Control Manager, David Pratt explained: “Identifying and retaining talent has always been a priority for DBCP. It is essential to have a current and future skilled workforce to ensure that Building Regulations continue to be adhered to for the safety of all throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.”

David added: “Amy’s apprenticeship has delivered on so many levels – for her and us. Qualifications aside, it has introduced her to her future career and enabled us to retain an enthusiastic and promising individual within the sector. It’s a win-win for everyone concerned. She has a very bright future ahead of her.”

Amy is currently one of a number of apprentices at DBCP, which is the leading provider of building control services in Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. DBCP is supporting nine members of staff through a range of industry-related qualifications, including Technical Support for Public Service Building Standards and Building Control Surveying, as part of its continued commitment to the ‘learning while earning’ model of training.

Earlier this year, Construction News revealed that the Building Control sector was facing an exodus of building inspectors following the introduction of the need to be certified by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) as part of the new post-Grenfell building safety regime.

In addition to apprenticeships, DBCP has invested significantly in staff training across the board. Most recently its team of inspectors have all successfully completed the new competence certification.

David was recently recognised in the LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024 for his ‘unwavering dedication to professional development and his commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning. Along with apprentice Building Control Surveyor Charlotte Gladwin who won the Newcomer of the Year Award, David won the Public Service Superstar title at the prestigious awards.

He continued: “Nationally, there is a shortage of qualified building inspectors and as an award-winning provider of Building Control services, we take our responsibility seriously to recruit and retain talented professionals in the sector who will ensure the next generation of safe buildings.”

To find out more about potential career opportunities at DBCP visit here.

DBCP looks to the future with latest  apprentice appointment

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Eighteen-year-old Lucy Cockle has embarked on the next stage of her career with an apprenticeship at DBCP, the leading provider of building control services throughout Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands. 

Lucy, who lives in Barlborough, is the latest apprentice appointment at DBCP. Based at the firm’s Chesterfield office, Lucy has joined DBCP’s technical support team where she will undertake an 18-month Level 2 Business Administration Apprenticeship. 

In her new role Lucy will support DBCP’s field-based building inspectors, processing Building Regulations applications and arranging inspections with builders, architects and property owners. 

A former Worksop college student, Lucy completed her A Levels at the prestigious school earlier this year ahead of deciding to follow the apprenticeship route. 

Lucy explained: “I knew that I wanted to work, earn and learn as well as explore a range of business roles. The apprenticeship at DBCP was a perfect fit for me as there are a range of pathways and avenues to go down within the company after I complete my qualification. 

DBCP provides training opportunities from Level 2 through to degree level and fully qualified Building Control Surveyor status. 

Lucy added: “Becoming a building control surveyor wasn’t a career I was aware of at school but starting my apprenticeship at DBCP has sparked my interest and I’m looking forward to seeing how my career progresses here as I learn more about the business and the industry.” 

Lucy joins a number of apprentices at DBCP which has run a successful programme since 2018. Most recently, Charlotte Gladwin a Level 4 building control apprentice at DBCP, was named as the Newcomer of the Year in the LABC East Midlands Building Excellence Awards 2024. 

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, established the company’s apprenticeship scheme. He welcomed Lucy to her new role, saying: “Building control is not an industry that comes to mind when someone is leaving school. This, unfortunately, has created an industry skills shortage. Our apprenticeships, however, enable us to attract more young people like Lucy to both the industry and DBCP.” 

If you’re interested in a future apprenticeship with DBCP, get in touch with David Pratt by emailing david.pratt@dbcp.co.uk   

Shining a spotlight on Building Control during National Apprenticeship Week 2024

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With National Apprenticeship Week 2024 (5 – 11 February) upon us, the thoughts of many young people will be turning to their future careers.

DBCP currently employs a number of apprentices and trainees, ranging from Level 3 to Degree level across its office-based technical and field-based building control teams.

A number of former apprentices and trainees in DBCP have since gone on to become Assistant Building Control Inspectors within the organisation.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, outlines below why young people should consider a career in building control. Read on to find out why…

“Building Control is only a small section of the construction industry and not an industry that comes to mind when leaving school.

In fact, what is Building Control? Building regulations help ensure that new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions (domestic or commercial) are going to be safe, healthy and high-performing. This means ensuring they are structurally sound, energy efficient and that occupants have the means of escape should a fire occur. Building Control is there to ensure that Building Regulations are adhered to.

Admittedly, the career and subject were not in most people’s line of vision until the terrible Grenfell tragedy. This brought building control under public scrutiny and the widespread agreement that the very highest standards of building control were necessary to ensure the safety of buildings for their users.

A career in building control is a bespoke blend of work, combining construction with the built environment, and interacting with a range of professions from architects to fire officers, builders to police officers. If you like variety then this is a career for you and one I can say, hand on heart, has never held a dull moment for me in the 30+ years I have worked in building control.

DBCP’s current and former apprentices and trainees

It is one of the reasons that many in the industry are continuing to work past their retirement age. When you ask them “why have you not retired yet?” they reply “I enjoy the job, meeting people and sorting out their problems every day is different.”

However, with the raft of building regulation changes on the horizon, it is clear that this attitude is changing, with many building surveyors throughout the country, choosing to retire or change occupations, in some cases leaving before retirement age taking their wealth of experience with them.

Failure to train and an ever-aging environment has created an industry skills shortage. Such is the shortage of skilled and qualified Building Control inspectors that we now need to act urgently across the sector.

At DBCP we have a robust apprenticeship programme in place – from intermediate to degree level,  and we are growing our team of Assistant Building Control Inspectors with the help of LABC.

Two of our Business Administration Apprentices, Lucy Jones and Amy Walton also hope to progress onto the Level 3 Certificate In Technical Support For Public Service Building Standards once they have completed their apprenticeship.

We are using apprenticeships to attract local young people to the sector and train them, alongside them gaining qualifications and accreditations required to do this important job. We are extremely fortunate that a number of our building control inspectors are willing to stay past retirement age, passing on their knowledge and experience to apprentices.

Through apprenticeships we intend to change industry’s current ‘Dead man’s shoes’ culture by providing a progressional ladder for employees.

This culture of career development through training within DBCP is also helping us attract new employees from related sectors like former site manager Catherine Potiphar who is now an Assistant Building Control Inspector.

To ensure staff at all levels within DBCP have access to industry-recognised training, we have entered into a training partnership with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).  We share the CIOB’s commitment to driving up professional standards within the industry through education and, because of this, are investing heavily in the development of all DBCP staff.

We have always taken our commitment to skills, training and the development of our employees seriously. Providing real life experiences to students is critical to get the next generation interested in the industry prior to leaving school. As I see it, everyone working in the construction industry, not just building control, has a duty to pass on their experience and knowledge if we want to ensure that our built environment is safe, fit for purpose for this generation and future ones.

There is no doubt that our industry is going through a period of change, but I say to surveyors of all ages, embrace the opportunities this change is presenting and work together to build a brighter future for the regulatory industry.

If you’re interested in a future apprenticeship with DBCP, get in touch with David Pratt by emailing david.pratt@dbcp.co.uk  

Apprenticeship charts career change for Charlotte

Posted on by DBCP.anna.melton

Charlotte Gladwin has said goodbye to retail management and has embarked on a brand-new career in building control thanks to an apprenticeship.

Previously working as a store manager at a pet shop for three years, Charlotte (21) now joins DBCP as a Level 4 Building Control Surveyor apprentice.

As an apprentice Charlotte will undertake practical on-the-job learning at construction sites throughout Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, working alongside DBCP’s team of experienced and knowledgeable Building Control Inspectors.

During her five-year apprenticeship, she will also combine her practical training with completing industry-recognised exams, which will ultimately see her qualify as a Building Control Surveyor.

As a qualified Building Control Surveyor, Charlotte will have responsibility for completing site inspections independently and ensuring buildings are safe, energy efficient and adhere to building control standards.

A former pupil of Wales High School in Rotherham, Charlotte entered retail following her A’ Levels. Keen to move out of retail and, with an interest in construction and the outdoors, she identified Building Control as the ideal profession in which to build a career.

She explained: “I really enjoyed studying Geography, Psychology and Business at A-Level and, together with my love of the outdoors, I felt that a career in building control aligned with my future ambitions.  At DBCP I’ll be part of the process that creates positive change in the local landscapes for our communities.

“Being in the position to check that building work is correct and architectural drawings have been followed is a significant responsibility. I’m really excited by the fact that at the end of my training, assignments and intense exams, I’ll be carrying out these tasks and be trusted to do so.”

DBCP’s long-running apprenticeship programme is helping the business attract local young people who want to progress their careers within the field of building control. The company currently employs seven apprentices who are at different stages of their training, including degree level.

“The opportunities provided by the team at DBCP are so exciting. I really enjoying being out on site and I’ve already found the team so supportive,” she added.

Delighted to welcome Charlotte to the team, David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, said: “Building Control Surveyors are in high demand. We look forward to sharing our industry knowledge and best-practice with Charlotte as she embarks upon her five-year training. I know from personal experience that building control offers a long and varied career. I am certainly never bored!”

If you’re interested in a future apprenticeship with DBCP, get in touch by emailing david.pratt@dbcp.co.uk.

Lucy celebrates A Level success with a DBCP apprenticeship

Posted on by DBCP.anna.melton

A former Tupton Hall Sixth Form student is celebrating her A level success by embarking on an apprenticeship.

Lucy Jones, who achieved three A’ Levels this August, including an A in Art, has secured a Level 3 Business Administration apprenticeship with DBCP, the leading provider of building control services across Derbyshire and Staffordshire Moorlands.

She has joined DBCP’s Chesterfield-based technical team which supports the company’s team of building inspectors.

She explained: “I am really excited to start my career at DBCP. University wasn’t for me; I wanted to get a job and start working immediately. DBCP has given me the opportunity to continue my learning with an apprenticeship. There is also the option to go on and do a degree level apprenticeship in building control and eventually become an inspector which really appeals to me.”

DBCP’s long-running apprenticeship programme is helping the business attract local young people who want to progress their careers within the field of building control. The company currently employs seven apprentices who are at different stages of their training, including degree level.

David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, welcomed Lucy to the business saying: “Apprentices like Lucy are key to the building control industry addressing its current skills shortage. We’re delighted to have Lucy onboard and very much hope she chooses to build her career within the field of building control beyond her level 3 apprenticeship. There are many opportunities at DBCP and within the industry to build a long and very rewarding career.”

A career in building control is a bespoke blend of work, combining construction with the built environment, and interacting with a range of professions from architects to fire officers, builders to police officers.

Addressing the industry’s shortage of qualified building control inspectors, DBCP is investing heavily in the development of all its staff. Earlier this year, DBCP entered into a training partnership with the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) as part of the company’s commitment to drive up professional standards within the industry through education.

If you’re interested in a future apprenticeship with DBCP, get in touch by emailing david.pratt@dbcp.co.uk.