Report a dangerous structure or demolition
Contents
- Report a dangerous structure or demolition
- Demolition
Report a dangerous structure or demolition
Report a dangerous structure
Dangerous buildings and structures are primarily the responsibility of their owners but we are here to protect the public and, if the safety of local people is affected by a dangerous structure, we will take action.
Dangerous structures vary from collapsing boundary walls, falling masonry and tiles, vehicle impact into buildings, fire damage, wind and weather damage, neglect and poor maintenance.
For the purpose of Building Regulations, there are three types of dangerous structures:
Immediate threat to public safety (e.g. collapsing walls, loose masonry over footpaths, fire-damaged buildings).
Requires urgent attendance, within hours.
May involve police, fire service, highways, and out-of-hours callout.
Not collapsing at the moment but could fail without action.
Requires rapid but not immediate intervention (within 24 hours).
Structural concern exists but not yet dangerous.
Often picked up through complaints, inspections, or long-term degradation.
When a dangerous structure is reported a Building Control surveyor will visit the site to inspect the structure and arrange for appropriate action to be taken to remove any danger.
In some cases, we may have to take urgent and direct action ourselves to safeguard the public. Where we can, we will let an owner know what we are doing and give them an opportunity to carry out emergency repairs. If we have to carry out the work we may have to charge the owner for our reasonable costs.
If action required by an owner is not taken we can consider legal action and apply for a Magistrates Court order. We can carry out the work and seek to recover the reasonable expenses back from the owner if the court order is ignored.
If you have any doubts as to whether the building you are dealing with is dangerous please contact us immediately. Our online form, listed above, is the best way to contact the team Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm.
Unless called upon by the emergency services we do not operate an out of hours service.
Last updated 31 July 2025