How to become an Approved Inspector, or be re-approved

There are four stages involved in the assessment process to become an Approved Inspector, or be re-approved:

1. Application

Applicant completes an application form including a detailed knowledge base. The knowledge base is the heart of the assessment and requires demonstration of how the applicant’s knowledge and experience equips them for the duties and responsibilities of an Approved Inspector. The knowledge base addresses six key areas as follows:

• Building Regulations & Statutory Control
• Law
• Construction Technology & Materials
• Fire Studies
• Foundation & Structural Engineering
• Building Service & Environmental Engineering

2. Pre-qualification verification

On receipt of an application, the CICAIR Registrar will check that all the information requested on the form has been provided.  Applicants will be asked to provide anything found to be missing, before the application can be progressed further.

3. Admissions Panel

On successful completion of Pre-qualification verification, the application is then considered by professional Assessors who decide whether the applicant has demonstrated the necessary experience and knowledge to merit a professional interview. Assessors include experts nominated from across the range of disciplines by CIC Members together with qualified Approved Inspectors. View Assessor list

4. Professional Interview

Applicants called for a interview will be seen by an Interview Panel consisting of three assessors, assisted by the CICAIR Registrar. The interview is the final stage of assessment. It is an opportunity for candidates to demonstrate their competence, and expand upon the information provided in their application.

Successful completion of the above assessment stages will result in the Applicant being invited to register subject to their adoption of the Code of Conduct for Approved Inspectors, including disciplinary procedures, which is a prerequisite to their entry onto the Register. Registration is for a period of five years.

Fees

The application fee for both initial approvals and for re-approvals is £3,500. The fee for registration following re-approval is 0.8% of the AI’s turnover in the financial year prior to re-approval. If the fee is less than £5,000, it will be paid in full prior to registration. If the registration fee exceeds £5,000, then it may be paid in 5 equal instalments, with the first instalment to be paid prior to registration and subsequent instalments paid annually prior to the anniversary of registration.

Unsuccessful applicant

If an applicant is unsuccessful at any stage in the assessment they will be given reasons. Further advice may be available on application to the Registrar. Opportunities for appeals against decisions are provided.

CICAIR Application Forms can be downloaded, see below:
(use the same form for approval or re-approval)

Corporate Approved Inspector

Individual Approved Inspector

Note to Individual Approved Inspector Applicants

Applicants are required to demonstrate their competence through post qualification experience. A proportion of that experience should have been gained in an appropriate position of responsibility. Full membership of a professional body in membership of CIC is required. Other evidence may also be acceptable.

Code of Conduct (applicable to both Corporate and Individual Approved Inspector applications)

Building Control Performance Standards

You should also have knowledge of the Building Control Performance Standards, ‘the Green Book’. Click here to view 'the Green Book'

Insurance

There are three CLG approved schemes of insurance for Approved Inspectors:

the "Griffiths & Armour Scheme" ;

the “NHBC” Scheme; and

the "PYV Limited Scheme".

Since the introduction of the Warranty Link Rule on 31 October 2005 there are four CLG schemes approved for provision of warranties:

the "Building LifePlans Scheme" ;

the “NHBC” Scheme;

the “Premier Guarantee” Scheme; and

the “Zurich” Scheme.

Circular letters about these schemes may be found on the CLG website.

Note: NHBC Building Control Services Ltd is insured by its parent, the National House-Building Council, under two schemes approved in 1985 and 1996 respectively.

Contact for the Approved Inspectors Register.