Dangerous structures
Dangerous Structures
The term dangerous structure covers any building, part of building or structure, which is in such condition, or used to carry such loads, that it possess a serious danger to the public.
The danger can be due to various reason like:
- Age of the building/structure
- Vehicle impact
- Weather damage
- Fire damage
- Vandalism
- Poor maintenance or neglect.
Building Control will not deal with any of the below examples as another department will deal with these:
To submit your Dangerous Structure report, please use the link below,
Report a dangerous structure
However, if the structure is in need of urgent repair contact us on 01304 872495 between 9am-5pm Monday to Friday and if you are reporting outside of this timeframe contact our out of hours team on 01304 821199.
Section 77 (Building Act 1984) of the Building Act 1984 empowers Local Authorities to deal with a building or structure which is in a potentially dangerous condition. We have responsibility under the Building Act to ensure dangerous structures in the Dover District, which are reported to us, are dealt with so that no threat is posed to people in the vicinity.
Following a report of a potentially dangerous structure, one of our Building Control surveyors will visit the site as soon as possible to assess the danger and associated risks. If immediate action is needed to remove the danger, such as a wall that could collapse, Section 78 (Building Act 1984)of the Act gives us the power to have the danger removed i.e. the structure demolished or barricaded off. If the structure is found to be in poor condition but not dangerous at the time of inspection, we will advise the owner or serve notice under Section 77 (Building Act 1984) by applying to the Magistrates’ Court, to have them carry out repairs within a reasonable time.