Behind the Regs

In this episode of Behind the Regs, Jack Calveley and Nader Hassan are joined by architect Níall Hedderman from Real Life Architecture for a practical conversation about home extensions, renovations, planning permission, Building Regulations, and the common mistakes homeowners make before a project even starts.

Níall works closely with homeowners across the UK and has built a strong online presence through Real Life Architecture, helping people understand the building process in a clear and accessible way. In this episode, he shares his experience of guiding clients through the early stages of domestic projects and explains why the right professional advice at the right time can save homeowners significant stress, cost and delay.

A major theme of the conversation is the difference between planning permission and Building Regulations. Many homeowners assume that once planning approval is granted, the project is ready to build. Níall explains why this is not the case, how the two systems operate separately, and why a design that achieves planning approval may still need to change to satisfy Building Regulations.

The episode also explores permitted development, exemptions, garden rooms, loft conversions, home extensions, and the risks of relying on poor advice or online assumptions. Níall warns that “exempt” does not mean safe to ignore, and explains why homeowners should be careful about who they rely on when deciding whether Building Regulations apply.

Jack, Nader and Níall also compare the systems in Scotland and England, including the different approaches to Building Control, approval before construction, building notices, private sector Registered Building Control Approvers, and the pressures currently affecting local authority services.

Looking ahead, the conversation turns to future standards, including Passive House thinking, higher energy performance expectations, airtightness, insulation, and the increasing complexity facing architects, builders, homeowners and Building Control professionals.

Topics covered include:

• Planning permission vs Building Regulations
• When homeowners should involve Building Control
• Why early professional advice is so important
• Common misconceptions around home extensions and exemptions
• The risks of relying on informal or incorrect advice
• Scotland vs England and how the systems differ
• Building notices and the challenges they can create
• Future energy standards and Passive House principles
• Why the right architect, builder and project team make all the difference

This episode is ideal for homeowners planning building work, architects, designers, builders, surveyors, Building Control professionals, and anyone who wants to better understand how domestic construction projects should be approached from the start.

The key message is simple: good projects are rarely built on guesswork. They start with the right advice, at the right time, from the right people.

“The future of Building Control depends on the people we encourage into it today.”

In this episode of Behind the Regs, we are joined by Chido Muswere, a Class 2A Registered Building Inspector, for a conversation focused on the journey into Building Control from the perspective of the next generation entering the profession.

At a time when the industry continues to discuss resources, competence, and attracting new talent, understanding the experience of those coming through the system is more important than ever.

Chido shares his journey:

🔹 Discovering Building Control as a career
🔹 The LABC training pathway
🔹 The importance of mentors and supportive teams
🔹 Moving from training into independent inspections
🔹 Building confidence and professional judgement
🔹 The challenges faced by new inspectors entering the industry

Behind every experienced professional was once someone asking questions, learning, and trying to find their place.

Building Control is not just about regulations, inspections, and technical knowledge.

It is also about people, development, and passing knowledge on to those who will carry the profession forward.

A brilliant insight into what it means to start your journey as a Registered Building Inspector.

Recorded live at Sweco’s Building Standards annual training event at The Belfry, this episode of Behind the Regs brings together hosts Jack Calveley and Nader Hassan with two brilliant guests: Paul McSoley and Douglas Masterson.

This conversation looks beyond the surface of compliance and asks what building safety really depends on in practice.

A certificate, label or product test is only part of the picture. The real outcome depends on the full chain: design intent, specification, product compatibility, test evidence, installation, workmanship, inspection, maintenance and ongoing responsibility.

In this live episode, Paul and Douglas explore fire doors, escape doors, architectural ironmongery, building services systems, dampers, penetrations, ventilation, Regulation 7, competence and the importance of evidence that actually supports the installed arrangement.

The discussion highlights a central message:

Building safety is not created by isolated products or paperwork alone. It is created by the way products, people, systems and evidence come together in the real world.

A huge thank you to Sweco and Neil Badley for inviting Behind the Regs to record its first live episode, and to Paul McSoley and Douglas Masterson for bringing such depth, clarity and practical insight to the conversation.

In this episode of Behind the Regs, Jack Calveley and Nader Hassan are joined by Adam Wallis and Daniel Knight for a fascinating discussion on communication, collaboration, and the often-overlooked roles that help protect consumers and improve standards across the property industry.

The conversation explores the disconnect that can exist between surveyors, damp specialists, mortgage brokers, conveyancers, estate agents, and other professionals involved in property transactions. Adam and Daniel share their experiences of working within these sectors and discuss why greater collaboration and understanding between professions could lead to better outcomes for clients and safer, higher-quality buildings.

Topics covered include:

• The divide between the damp industry and the wider residential sector
• Why communication between professionals is often lacking
• The role of surveyors in property transactions
• Common misconceptions about surveying and specialist inspections
• The risks of relying solely on minimum standards
• How better collaboration can improve outcomes for consumers
• Lessons from industry experience and practical examples

This episode is a reminder that no profession operates in isolation, and that some of the best outcomes are achieved when specialists work together, share knowledge, and focus on the bigger picture.

Whether you're a surveyor, building inspector, contractor, estate agent, designer, or property owner, this conversation offers valuable insight into the importance of communication across the built environment.

Navigating the Building Control Landscape: Insights from John Miles

Learn about the journey of John Miles in building control, his insights on public vs. private sectors, and the importance of collaboration in ensuring safe buildings.

In the complex world of construction and building regulations, understanding the nuances of building control can be crucial for ensuring safety and compliance. In this post, we explore the insights of John Miles, a seasoned professional in the field, as he shares his journey and key learnings from his experiences across both public and private sectors.

About John Miles

John Miles has a rich background in building control, embarking on his journey in the mid-90s. With a degree in building surveying from Sheffield Hallam University, he has worked in various capacities within different organisations, including local councils and private firms. His current role as a consultant at Hounsler Council in London allows him to integrate his extensive knowledge with practical applications in the field.

The Shift from Private to Public Sector

John’s transition from the private sector to local authority work has been enlightening. He emphasises that working in the public sector offers a more holistic approach to building control. Unlike the private sector, where roles can be more siloed, the public sector fosters collaboration across departments. This interconnectedness is vital in addressing issues like substandard housing and ensuring that building regulations are followed.

Key Takeaway: Holistic Approaches Matter

- Why it matters:A holistic approach ensures that safety is prioritised, as building control professionals collaborate to address various issues.

- Common mistake: Relying solely on regulations without considering broader implications can lead to safety oversights.

The Importance of Collaboration in Building Control

One of John’s significant insights is the need for collaboration within the building control sector. He reflects on the lessons learned from the recent struggles of Ascent, highlighting that no organization is too big to fail. The industry must work together to ensure safety and compliance, sharing knowledge and resources effectively.

Key Takeaway: No One is Too Big to Fail

- Why it matters: The construction sector must recognize the importance of collaboration and community responsibility to prevent failures.

- Common mistake: Underestimating the value of cooperative relationships can lead to significant risks and oversights.

Lessons from Structural Warranties

John discusses his experience with structural warranties, noting the differing risk appetites between warranty providers and building regulations. He stresses that achieving the minimum standards is not enough; the industry should strive for excellence in construction practices.

Key Takeaway: Striving for Excellence

- Why it matters: Building to minimum standards can lead to compromised safety and quality.

- Common mistake: Assuming that meeting regulations alone guarantees safety and quality in construction.

Key Takeaways from John Miles

- Collaboration is crucial: Building control professionals must work together across sectors to enhance public safety.

- Understand your role: Recognising the broader implications of your work is essential for effective building control.

- Aim for more than minimums: Strive for high standards in construction to ensure safety and longevity.

In conclusion, John Miles’ insights highlight the importance of collaboration, a holistic approach, and striving for excellence in the building control sector. As professionals, we must remain vigilant and proactive in ensuring that our buildings are not just compliant but safe and sustainable for future generations.

Summary

In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, host Jack Calveley and co-host Nader engage with Darren Ettles, a seasoned professional in building control. They discuss Darren's extensive background, the role of the ABCA, the importance of a collective voice in the industry, and the impact of recent changes in building regulations, particularly the Building Safety Act. The conversation also touches on the sustainability of the private sector building control model, the effectiveness of competency assessments, and the need for collaboration across the sector. Darren emphasises the importance of communication and understanding within the industry to navigate future challenges effectively.

Takeaways

Darren Ettles has 35 years of experience in building control.

ABCA represents private sector building control professionals.

Building control requires a strong administrative foundation.

The industry must adapt to changing regulations and standards.

Competency assessments need to focus on practical understanding.

Collaboration between local authorities and private sector is essential.

The Building Safety Act has introduced significant changes.

There is a need for a collective voice in the industry.

Communication is key to resolving industry challenges.

Future success depends on working together as a unified sector.

Titles

Navigating the Future of Building Control

The Role of ABCA in Modern Building Regulations

sound bites

"Building control is 70% process."

"The local authority has the teeth now."

"We should all appreciate what we do."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Building Control and Darren's Background

07:29 Understanding ABCA and Its Role in the Industry

12:27 The Importance of a Collective Voice in Building Control

18:27 Challenges and Changes in Building Control Post-Building Safety Act

26:57 The Future of Private Sector Building Control

33:06 Sustainability of the Current Commercial Model

39:05 The Evolution of Building Control Approvals

40:31 Understanding Final Certificates and Competence Schemes

42:28 The Role of RBI in Building Regulations

45:39 The Need for Updated Guidance in Building Practices

50:45 Collaboration Across the Sector: A Path Forward

54:22 Bridging the Gap: The Role of ABCA

01:01:54 Navigating Future Challenges in Building Control

Summary

In this episode of Behind the Regs, Jack and Nader engage with Stuart Hammond to explore the multifaceted role of Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs) within the building control industry. The conversation delves into Stuart's background, the importance of career progression, the current state of competency and stabilisation in the industry, and the critical responsibilities of RBIs.

They discuss the need for collaboration between local authorities and Registered Building Control Approvers (RBCAs), the challenges of maintaining competency, and the future of building control amidst regulatory changes.

Stuart emphasises the importance of professional memberships and the need for a cultural shift in the industry to foster collaboration and support for RBIs. The episode concludes with valuable advice for RBIs navigating their careers in this evolving landscape.

Takeaways

Stuart Hammond shares his journey into building control.

Career progression in building control is vital for the next generation.

The industry is stabilising but still faces competency challenges.

RBIs play a crucial role in ensuring regulatory compliance.

Collaboration between local authorities and RBCAs is essential.

Competency assessments are becoming the primary focus for RBIs.

Professional memberships enhance career prospects and industry respect.

The disconnect between local authorities and RBCAs needs to be addressed.

Future success in building control requires more staff and collaboration.

RBI's should prioritise their career goals and well-being.

Titles

Understanding the Role of RBIs in Building Control

Navigating Career Progression in Building Control

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Building Control and RBI Perspectives

04:11 Stuart Hammond's Journey in Building Control

07:25 The Role of Management in Building Control

10:15 Stabilization and Competency in Building Control

13:06 Challenges in Class 3 Competency

16:22 The Importance of Collaboration in Building Control

19:14 Understanding the Role of an RBI

22:22 Accountability and Support for RBIs

25:10 Defining a Good RBI

29:14 Local Authorities vs RBCAs: Bridging the Gap

34:40 Generational Change in Building Control

36:02 Collaboration Between Authorities

39:11 Competence vs. Professional Memberships

44:38 Adapting to Regulatory Changes

52:29 Future of Building Control

54:51 Advice for Building Inspectors

In this episode of Behind the Regs, hosts Nader and Jack engage with Dr. Michael Kinsey, a chartered fire engineer and researcher specialising in human behaviour during fire emergencies. Dr. Kinsey shares his journey from a background in computer science to his current focus on evacuation modelling and human behaviour in fire scenarios. He emphasises the gap between theoretical fire safety design and actual human behaviour, highlighting how assumptions made by designers often do not align with real-world reactions during emergencies. Through his research, he aims to bridge this gap by understanding decision-making processes and group dynamics in crisis situations.

The conversation delves into the complexities of fire safety design, particularly the reliance on compliance with fire design guidance, which can lead to unsafe outcomes if practitioners do not critically assess human behaviour. Dr. Kinsey discusses the importance of evacuation modelling as a tool for stress-testing designs rather than a definitive answer to safety. He also addresses the challenges of using lifts for evacuation, the need for better education in fire engineering, and the importance of fostering curiosity and courage among engineers to question compliance and advocate for safer designs. This episode provides valuable insights into the intersection of engineering, human behavior, and fire safety.

In this insightful interview, Gary Cass shares his extensive journey through the building control industry, highlighting leadership, industry collaboration, and future challenges. Discover how his diverse roles and experiences shape his vision for the sector's evolution.

keywords

building control, leadership, industry collaboration, regulation, career development, UK construction

key topics

Gary's career progression and leadership journey

Industry collaboration between public and private sectors

Challenges and future of building control resource management

Titles

From Trainee to CEO: Gary's Building Control Journey

Leadership and Collaboration in Building Control with Gary

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Gary's Industry Background

03:32 Gary's Career Path and Key Milestones

05:28 Transition from Technical Roles to Leadership

08:24 Impact of Legislation and Industry Response

11:13 Building Control Sector Challenges and Opportunities

14:31 Balancing Public and Private Sector Building Control

18:25 Leadership Principles and Ethical Approach

21:18 Industry Collaboration and Organizational Structure

25:16 Working with Industry Organizations and Challenges

34:11 Current Industry Concerns: Resources and Fees

39:06 The Future of Building Control and Sector Evolution

52:05 Vision for Industry Improvement and Professional Growth

59:14 Gary's Role in CABE and Industry Contribution

01:03:59 no-copyright-music-394971.mp3

Resources

Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) - https://www.cabe.org.uk/

Construction Industry Council (CIC) - https://cic.org.uk/

NHBC (National House Building Council) - https://www.nhbc.co.uk/

CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building) - https://www.ciob.org/

Building Control Alliance (BCA) - https://www.bca.org.uk/

Guest links

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-cass-08160188/

In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, Jack and Nader engage with Jon Cumberlidge, a prominent figure in building control and competence discussions. The conversation explores Jon's extensive background in construction, the establishment and role of the Industry Competency Committee (ICC), and the evolving landscape of competence within the building control profession. Key themes include the importance of professional judgment, the impact of regulatory reforms, and the need for cultural change in the construction industry to rebuild trust and ensure public safety. John emphasizes the significance of collaboration among building inspectors and the necessity of maintaining high standards of competence as the industry navigates through significant changes.

Takeaways

Competence should be integrated into daily practices.

Re-registration in 2028 is approaching quickly.

Building inspectors must prepare for ongoing changes.

Professional judgment is crucial in building control.

The ICC aims to set competence standards for the industry.

Collaboration among building inspectors is essential.

Cultural change is needed to rebuild trust in construction.

Regulatory reforms can lead to unintended consequences.

Fire engineering is moving towards professionalization.

Public safety is a primary concern in building control.

Titles

Navigating the Future of Building Control

The Importance of Competence in Construction

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Building Control and Competence

04:13 The Role of the Industry Competency Committee (ICC)

07:32 Competence in Practice for Registered Building Inspectors (RBIs)

10:51 Understanding Good Competence in Building Inspection

13:37 Building Control Working Group and Its Focus

16:21 Challenges in Construction Regulation and Responsibilities

19:32 Pressure and Professional Judgment in Building Inspection

23:10 Protecting Professional Judgment Amidst Oversight

27:35 Government Proposals and the Single Construction Regulator

32:06 Building Control and Regulatory Changes

39:10 The Future of Fire Engineering

46:38 Cultural Change in Construction

54:34 The Path Forward for Building Control Professionals

Most companies overlook a simple truth: clarity in building safety can save lives and prevent costly disasters. Gareth Grimes, a construction veteran and expert in building safety, reveals how stripping away legal jargon and embracing plain language dramatically improves understanding and accountability in a complex industry.

In this eye-opening episode, Gareth shares over 26 years of construction experience, from demolitions in Liverpool to high-rise projects in Dubai.

He explains why building safety is often misunderstood not by accident, but by design and how this systemic complexity leaves residents, duty holders, and even professionals guessing instead of acting.

You'll discover how ambiguous language on site leads to dangerous delays, recognize the pitfalls of overcomplication, and learn how humour and simplicity can be powerful tools for real change.

We break down concrete strategies Gareth uses, including his free e-books that demystify legislation, the importance of clear fire strategies, and responsible roles within the building safety framework.

Summary

In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, Jack and Nader engage with Carrie Good, a seasoned professional in building control. Carrie shares her journey from a technical admin to a registered building inspector, discussing the challenges and changes in the industry, particularly in light of the Building Safety Act. The conversation delves into the roles and responsibilities of duty holders, the relevance of building notices, the impact of AI, and the complexities of the registration process. Carrie emphasizes the importance of competence in the industry and the need for better communication and understanding among all stakeholders. The episode concludes with insights on attracting new talent to building control and the future of the profession.

In this episode of Behind the Regs, hosts Jack and Nader interview David Barley, a seasoned professional in the construction and education sectors. David shares his extensive career journey, highlighting the importance of competency assessments and the re-registration process for Registered Building Inspectors (RBI's). The conversation delves into the challenges faced by RBI's, common misconceptions about the re-registration process, and the significance of continuous professional development (CPD). David emphasizes the support available through Total Training Development (TTD) and encourages RBI's to actively engage in their professional growth. The episode concludes with practical advice for preparing for re-registration and the resources TTD offers to assist professionals in the building control sector.

In this episode, Nader and Jack discuss the intricacies of building control recruitment with Paul Tomkies, the founding director of BRG. Paul shares his extensive experience in the industry, addressing the value of recruitment agencies, misconceptions about the recruitment process, and the impact of new regulations on staffing. The conversation delves into the current skill shortages, the future of talent in building control, and the role of professional associations. They also explore salary trends, the potential of AI in recruitment, and the challenges posed by the upcoming 2028 registration requirements. Throughout the discussion, Paul emphasizes the importance of collaboration between local authorities and the private sector, as well as the need for employers to adapt to a competitive market.

In this episode of the Behind the Regs podcast, Aaron Bridges shares his journey from military service to becoming a building control surveyor. He discusses the challenges and opportunities faced by service leavers transitioning into civilian roles, particularly in building control. The conversation highlights the importance of purpose, awareness, and mentorship in attracting military personnel to the profession, as well as the misconceptions that exist about building control. Aaron emphasizes the need for greater awareness and recruitment efforts to bring more service leavers into the industry, ultimately enhancing public safety and building standards.

In this episode of Behind the Regs, hosts Jack Calveley and Nader Hassan engage with Andy Crooks, a seasoned expert in building control with over 35 years of experience. The conversation delves into the complexities of building control, focusing on the BICoF competency assessment, the importance of management competence, and the need for procedural compliance among registered building inspectors. Andy emphasizes the necessity for enhanced education and training in the field, advocating for a national careers agency to promote construction careers and improve the industry's image. The discussion also touches on the challenges posed by inconsistencies in competency assessments and the implications of new regulations and fees for the private sector. Andy shares his insights on the future of building control and the critical role of competent professionals in ensuring safety and compliance in the industry.

This conversation delves into the critical aspects of fire safety in high-rise buildings, particularly focusing on the Grenfell Tower tragedy. It discusses the importance of fire compartmentalization and the maintenance of buildings to ensure safety. The dialogue highlights the failures in the Grenfell case, emphasizing the need for proper building practices to prevent fire propagation.

We discuss the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the role of an RBI (Risk-Based Inspection), highlighting how the industry often fails to clearly define and communicate its professional responsibilities.

New Trailer for the Behind the Regs podcast