Dangerous Structures

STG Dangerous Wall.gif

The Partnership has a responsibility under the Building Act 1984 to carry out remedial action to deal with any structure, public or privately owned that is judged to be in a dangerous condition.

A dangerous building or structure is any part of a building or structure that could pose a danger to members of the public, including:

  • Loose or falling roof tiles;
  • Walls or fences that are in danger of collapse;
  • Unstable chimneys;
  • Buildings damaged by fire or vehicle collision.

Our experienced building surveyors are on call out of business hours 365 days a year. They will inspect the building and help the owner of the building decide on the course of action required to protect the safety of the public. This may vary from closing a street to instructing the immediate demolition of the property, or helping the owner find a builder to make the property safe. We aim to inspect reported dangerous structures within 4 hours of notification.

Whose responsibility is it to remove the danger?

The owner of a structure is responsible for preventing or removing any danger to the public in or around the structure.

What if there is no immediate danger?

If there is no immediate danger but action is required to make the building or structure safe in the short term, the surveyor will apply to a magistrates court for an order requiring the owner to carry out works. If the owner fails to respond, the Partnership may carry out the work in default. Any costs incurred by the Partnership following this procedure or where emergency action is undertaken are recoverable from the owner.

How do I report a dangerous structure?

If you wish to report a dangerous structure in the Gravesham, Medway or Swale area, please telephone the Partnership on numbers below or email us.


Reception open
Monday - Thursday
8.30am - 5.15pm
Friday
8.30am - 4.45pm

By Post
STG Building Control Partnership
Compass Centre,
Pembroke
Chatham Maritime,
Kent
ME4 4YH
By Phone
Telephone: 01634 331133
Minicom: 01634 333111
Fax: 01634 331299
Out of Hours service
01634 304400
Electronically
E-mail: building@stgbc.org.uk