Establish what is missing
List the concealed items, when they were installed and which inspection was missed. Identify whether the issue concerns foundations, drainage, structural connections, insulation or fire protection. Provide the application reference and the relevant drawing revision so the inspector can assess the actual question.
Do not assume that one missed visit makes the entire project unapprovable. Equally, do not assume that a builder's assurance settles an item that building control needed to examine. The required evidence must be agreed with the body responsible for the project. [3] [4]
Gather the available evidence
Collect dated photographs, installation records, delivery information, calculations, test results and relevant certificates. Explain what each item shows and where it relates to the building. A close-up image without a location or construction context may not answer the inspector's question; present the records as an organised account rather than a large unsorted folder.
The post-2023 procedural guidance includes powers to require tests and information where needed for compliance assessment. That means evidence should be offered for consideration, not described as a guaranteed substitute for seeing the work. [1]
Agree any opening up before starting it
Ask building control to identify which areas need exposing and what it needs to see. Coordinate the method with the builder and relevant designer, particularly where opening up could affect structure, waterproofing or fire protection. These are design and construction responsibilities, not tasks automatically undertaken by the inspector. [5] [6]
Record the agreed scope and arrange the inspection before the work is reinstated. Also identify who is responsible for the cost under the project arrangements rather than allowing the regulatory question and a contractual disagreement to become confused.
Distinguish missed inspection from unauthorised work
If the project has an existing application or initial notice, explain the missed inspection within that process. Where eligible work was carried out without the necessary approval arrangements, a council regularisation application may instead be relevant. GOV.UK confirms that regularisation is a local-authority route and may require alterations. [3]
Avoid repeating the problem
Review the remaining inspection stages and booking responsibility with the builder. A start notice does not book inspections automatically. Add hold points before concrete, backfill, boards or finishes cover important work. [7] [2]
The objective is to establish compliance and complete a reliable record. Do not accept a promise of a future certificate as a reason to continue concealing unresolved work. [8]