About the building control team
A day in building control is never the same there is so much variance in the differing roles of the job. This includes time in the office carry out plan checks which is where plans and specifications are checked for compliance with the building regulations, answering telephone enquiries, responding to emails, supporting our business support team and other administrative processes.
Other parts of the job include visiting live construction sites, we deal with a variety of projects from small domestic projects such as extensions, installing a steel beam and garage conversions, through to multi-million pound developments which could include new schools, industrial buildings and shopping complexes. Our service has dealt with many exciting projects from the new grandstand at Cheltenham Racecourse, new schools such as the new SEN school in Brockworth and currently involved in the new designer outlet retail park at J9 in Tewkesbury. Other aspects of the job include public protection where by we can get called out to visit dangerous structures for example a leaning wall or falling roof tiles.
This is a fantastic career which is very rewarding, a good balance between being in the office and out on sites. There is never a dull day in building control.
What previous apprentices say
Matt Groves, building control technician
"The degree apprenticeship in building control surveying has been a fulfilling experience, offering a blend of practical, on-site learning and academic study. Beginning my apprenticeship at Cheltenham Borough Council in 2021, I have been able to develop a solid foundation in construction technologies and the building regulations.
"Balancing full-time work and academic study has undoubtedly been challenging, but the apprenticeship has proven incredibly rewarding. The real-world application of my studies has deepened my understanding and significantly improved my skills in building control, which is evidenced through my promotion from apprentice to building control technician in 2024. This promotion was a direct result of my successful registration as a Class 2A domestic surveyor with the Building Safety Regulator, a milestone that I’m particularly proud of.
"The apprenticeship has not only provided me with invaluable professional experience but has also given me the confidence to take on more responsibility and grow within my field. It has provided me with a unique set of skills that I can continue to build on throughout my career in building control."