Dangerous structures

Where a building is in such a condition that it may put people in danger, we have legal powers to investigate and require that it be made safe.

Typical examples of dangerous structures include:

• walls leaning over or being unstable
• roof tiles being blown off in high winds
• chimneys damaged by storms

Buildings that are simply dilapidated or run down would not necessarily be considered dangerous.

Reporting dangerous structures

Report a dangerous structure online

Alternatively, you can contact us on 01865 252860.

Procedure and Costs

The owner of any building that becomes dangerous is responsible for making the building safe (including any costs) and if notification of a dangerous structure is given to our Building Control team, the owner of the building will be contacted and required to remove the danger.

If the danger is immediate and/or life threatening and the owner cannot be contacted, Building Control will arrange for the minimum action necessary to remove the danger and will claim the costs back from the owner.

All actions taken will be confirmed in writing and if available, the owner will be advised of the likely costs involved.

Page last reviewed 1 May 2012