Ireland Building Control Amendment Regulations S.I. 9: BCMS Compliance Guide
Updated 6 September 2026 · By SolarNevs Research Desk, Dealer surveys + verified sources · 1 source · Method ↗
Key Takeaways
- S.I. No. 9 of 2014, formally the 'Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014,' came into operation on 1 March 2014.
- Commercial building works in Ireland require online assessment via the Building Control Management System (BCMS).
- A mandatory Assigned Certifier must be appointed, and they prepare a preliminary Inspection Plan.
- Certificates of Compliance on Completion are subject to a 21-day statutory validation period by local authorities.
Understanding S.I. No. 9 of 2014 and BCMS Compliance
The 'Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014,' known as S.I. No. 9 of 2014, introduced mandatory statutory oversight for commercial building works in Ireland. These regulations came into operation on 1 March 2014. They establish new requirements for documentation, certification, and inspection throughout the construction process.
A central component of these regulations is the Building Control Management System (BCMS). This online platform facilitates the lodgement of required documentation. For commercial rooftop solar projects, particularly those needing fire safety certificates or compliance validation, documentation must be lodged via this national BCMS portal.
Failure to comply with the requirements of the Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2014 constitutes an offence. This is specified under section 17 (2) of the Building Control Act. The Minister may also publish a 'Code of Practice for Inspecting and Certifying Buildings and Works' to guide compliance.
We have not verified the specific penalties for non-compliance, so we do not publish them.
Frequently asked questions
What is S.I. No. 9 of 2014?
S.I. No. 9 of 2014 is formally titled the 'Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2014.' These regulations introduced mandatory statutory oversight for commercial building works in Ireland (August 2026).
What is the BCMS online assessment obligation?
The regulations require the completion of an online assessment via the Building Control Management System (BCMS). This assessment details the proposed approach to comply with the requirements of the Second Schedule (August 2026).
Who is an Assigned Certifier and what is their role?
An Assigned Certifier must be a registered architect, chartered engineer, or registered building surveyor. They are responsible for preparing a preliminary Inspection Plan and submitting a Notice of Assignment of Person to Inspect and Certify Works (Assigned Certifier) (August 2026).
Is there a statutory validation period for completion certificates?
Yes, local building control authorities must consider the validity of a Certificate of Compliance on Completion within **21 days** of its receipt. This period allows for review against statutory requirements (August 2026).
What are the consequences of non-compliance with S.I. No. 9 of 2014?
Failure to comply with the requirements of the Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2014 constitutes an offence. This is specified under section 17 (2) of the Building Control Act (August 2026).
Key Compliance Requirements
Compliance with S.I. No. 9 of 2014 involves several specific submissions and appointments:
The 21-Day Validation Period and Statutory Offences
Once a 'Certificate of Compliance on Completion' is submitted, local building control authorities consider its validity within **21 days** of its receipt. This period allows the authority to review the submission against statutory requirements.
References
- Irish Statute Book — accessed 23 August 2026
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