History

The origins of Building Control
Attempts to control builders can be traced back to ancient times.
In ancient times builders put to death if buildings collapse.
The fear of loss of life and property from fire brought about the first formal controls
Great Fire of London 1666 destroyed 4/5ths of London.
Brought about the London Building Acts 1667 and 1774
"An Act to control the construction of new buildings in London."

Requires all external walls to be brick or stone, rules for foundations, wall thicknesses, timber sizes and types and Chimneys.

Large houses need external balconies to facilitate rescue from fire.

Building Surveyors appointed for the first time.

Surveyors appointed to enforce the Acts.
Fines imposed for none compliance.
London Acts copied by other major cities.
1840 Bristol Building Act.
The designs in the Acts were used to by builders throughout the country to produce better buildings.
The Surveyors Oath from the Bristol Act
"Being one of the Surveyors appointed in pursuance of the Act of Parliament, passed in the twenty eighth year of the Reign of King George the Third, for regulating Buildings and Party Walls, do swear that upon receiving Notice of any building - to do the utmost of my ability - to cause the Restrictions to be strictly observed without Favour or Affection, Prejudice and Malice."