Glossary of terms

Building regulations are a set of design rules and standards that all new buildings must meet. They include fire safety, structures, sound, ventilation, electrical safety, materials and workmanship. The Building Control Inspector is responsible for regular reviews during the build before the final Building Regulation Certificate is issued.

Snagging inspections are carried out on individual properties to check workmanship just before practical completion. A schedule of remaining works is presented to the contractor to make good.

A final check that the original snagging list of defects have been rectified and that nothing has been further damaged during the repairs.

Also referred to as 'we' or 'our'.

A process and document that assesses the potential fire risks in a building or property. It identifies hazards, assesses the likelihood of a fire, and provides recommendations for improving fire safety. 

Oversees and administers the build contract on behalf of Southern Housing. 

An insurance policy issued by the warranty provider (NHBC, Premier, LABC, etc). It usually lasts for 10 years and protects homeowners and mortgage lenders from structural defects caused by design issues, faulty materials, or poor workmanship.

This is confirmation that the warranty provider (NHBC etc) has inspected the building and is satisfied the building has been constructed to industry standards and therefore lenders are willing to lend against the property.

These form part of a planning consent which set out a number of conditions to be followed. They need to be discharged / approved by the local authority during construction, for example the materials used on the external façade. 

See also s278

This is when the building is finished and ready for you to move in. We get a certificate from our Employers Agent to confirm this.

This is when the Construction team are happy the properties are ready for occupation and hand over the keys to the Sales team who then serve notice to buyers to complete.