A Commencement Notice is a notification to a Building Control Authority that a person intends to carry out works or a material change of use to which the Building Regulations apply. The notice must be given to the authority not more than 28 days and not less than 14 days before the commencement of works or the change of use.

The Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014 states that a Commencement Notice should be applied for online using the Building Control Management System (BCMS). The BCMS will allow building owners to nominate an Assigned Certifier and Builder for the development works. Each party must be registered with the BCMS to fill in or sign their respective parts.

Before submitting a Commencement Notice, it is recommended that you:

  • Consider the requirements set out in the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014
  • Engage with the BCMS on www.localgov.ie and where necessary complete the online assessment and submit the Commencement Notice and supporting documentation.