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Dangerous Structures

What are they?

Where a building is in such a condition that it may put people in danger, local authorities have legal powers under Section 78 of the Building Act 1984 to investigate and require the owners to make the building safe.

Typical examples of dangerous structures include:

• vehicle impact
• fire damaged buildings
• 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 but may be dealt with under separate legislation.

What we will do?

The target of Stratford District Council is to respond to the report of a potentially dangerous building or structure within 1 hour during working hours, and 2 hours out of hours. This is measured from the point of first contact with the Building Control service to the arrival of an officer at the incident.

On arrival at the site the officer will assess the building or structure and take any necessary details. They will then decide on the necessary course of action having regard for the Building Act 1984. The immediate safety of people in and around the building or structure is the prime consideration.

View the Council's policy on dangerous structures

If you wish to report a potentially dangerous building or structure please contact the Building Control team on 01789 260626.

Alternatively please email buildingcontrol@stratford-dc.gov.uk

Examples of Section 78 action in the Stratford District

Building damaged by fire, Stratford upon Avon

The building was damaged by fire and as a result had to be demolished in order to make it safe.

Car crashed into side of building, Stratford upon Avon

The car was extracted and the building elevation was made good.

Downloads:
Dangerous Structure Policy (91KB PDF) | Help with PDFs

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