In the news: Builder prosecuted following breaches of Building Control Regulations

On 17 September 2021, Mrs Hayley Wilson of New Century Road, Laindon, made an application to Basildon Council for "rear extension and internal alterations". Following approval, Mrs Wilson appointed Affordable Building to carry out the works.

The homeowner soon raised concerns with the council's Building Control team over the quality and standard of the work. An investigation was launched where it became apparent that the work provided by Mr Grafton fell well below the required standards.

Basildon Council issued the defendant with formal notices highlighting the contraventions and requiring details of proposed remedial works. The notices were not complied with, leaving the homeowner with an unfinished and inadequate extension.

Mr Grafton was found guilty of four offences relating to breaches of the Building Control Regulations 2010, contrary to the Building Act 1984, at Basildon Magistrates Court on 10 November 2023, following trial.

On 4 October 2024, Mr Grafton was sentenced at Basildon Crown Court to a fine of £10,000 for each charge, totalling £40,000. The Court also ordered the defendant to pay £45,000 in compensation to Mrs Wilson and £9253 towards the council's costs of bringing the prosecution. The Defendant was also ordered to pay a victim surcharge of £2000.

Councillor Aidan McGurran, Basildon Council's Cabinet Member for Environment and Leisure said: "Breaches of Building Control Regulations can pose a real risk to residents' safety, and cases like this demonstrate just how serious it is for works to fall below the required standards.

"I hope this prosecution sends a clear message to all traders in the borough that breaches of Building Control Regulations will not be tolerated, and there will be consequences that cost. Basildon Council will not hesitate to take firm enforcement action where a business lets our residents down and fails to meet the reasonable required standards."

Ends

Published 8 October 2024