Conditions for self control - a certification scheme for building control

The traditional systems of building control, executed by local authorities within the building permit procedures are more and more replaced by systems in which private organizations control construction works on compliance with the technical requirements. The latest development in this respect is the introduction of self-control by architects and other organisations within the building industry. In various European countries we see a development towards more transparency. The building codes and technical requirements are formulated in performance terms and private companies within the industry carry out building control. This approach stimulates innovation and equivalence for people and companies that want to realise quality and efficient and effective procedures. The paper gives an actual insight in recent European developments and presents an outline of a draft guideline for the certification of architects and technical advisors for the process of checking building plans on compliance with the performance requirements of the Dutch Building Decree. The certified plan checking will soon function as an alternative for the traditional local authorities building control.