Building Control Approved Inspector: What you need to know about registered building control approvers

As the construction landscape evolves, the role of the building control approved inspector (now known as a Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA)) has never been more critical.

In the industry, many people use the old phrase out of habit. Either way, the job remains vital in guiding a construction project through the thicket of regulations and responsibilities that need to be met.

At enevo Building Control, we’re proud to serve as one of the leading privately owned Registered Building Control Approvers in England. But before we talk about what we do, let’s take a step back and unpack what the role actually involves.

What does a building control approved inspector do?

In simple terms, we help make sure buildings are safe, compliant, and built to last.

A building control approved inspector (now RBCA!) isn’t someone who turns up to catch people out. We can be useful partners,  from the very start of a project, who can offer insight and formal approvals and ensure your development meets the latest requirements of the Building Regulations.

We’re authorised by the Building Safety Regulator (BSR), which means we operate under strict rules of competence and impartiality. Our team includes qualified Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) who carry out:

• Plan checking – review of architectural drawings, structural calculations, and fire strategies to make sure designs comply before work begins.
• Site inspections – these happen at agreed stages throughout construction, whether it’s a foundation pour, a frame check, or final completion.
• Certification – once everything checks out, we issue a Final Certificate to confirm compliance.

Through a project, while we can’t offer design advice, we can offer guidance, clarify complex regulations, offer tailored recommendations, and work collaboratively with clients to resolve regulatory issues and ensure compliance. Wherever possible we actively help resolve issues, often catching potential non-compliances early and aim to save time, money, and stress further down the line.

Why use a private RBCA over the local authority?

There’s nothing wrong with going through the local council. But some clients prefer working with private RBCAs for a few simple reasons:

• Continuity and personal service – you deal with the same inspector (or team) throughout your project.
• Faster response times/better availability – especially helpful when you’re up against tight deadlines or programme changes.
• Sector expertise – private RBCAs like enevo tend to bring specialist experience across a range of projects, from one-off builds to complex commercial schemes.

At enevobuildingcontrol.co.uk, we work with developers, architects, contractors, and homeowners across England. From care homes and schools to high-rise apartments and small extensions, we bring the same level of rigour, clarity, and professionalism every time.

What does the service actually cover?

It varies depending on the project, but here’s a snapshot of how we support our clients:

Commercial Building Control

From hotels and offices to industrial sites and shops – we help commercial teams navigate fire strategy approvals, means of escape, accessibility, energy compliance and more.

Residential Building Control

Whether it’s a single dwelling, a housing estate, a barn conversion or a loft extension, our RBIs provide proactive guidance and inspections to keep things moving while ensuring full compliance.

Structural Warranty Inspections

While we don’t provide warranties directly, we regularly work alongside leading warranty providers, conducting inspections that help reduce risk and support successful certification.

Why enevo Building Control?

In short – we know what we’re doing, and we’re good to work with.

Our team brings over 100 years of combined experience in Building Control. We’re ISO 9001 accredited, fully registered with the BSR, and have a team who are approachable, responsive, and thorough. We work closely with you, not just to get approval, but to help create better buildings.

If you’re planning a project and wondering whether to go with local authority or a private inspector, it’s worth considering the difference a good RBCA can make. You want someone who understands the regulations, but also someone who communicates clearly, solves problems quickly, and wants the build to succeed.

That’s what we aim for at enevo Building Control.

Drop us a message if you’ve got a project or any questions in mind. Whether it’s your first build or your fiftieth, we’d be happy to talk things through.