Public safety and dangerous buildings

Structures may become gradually dangerous with old age or by storms, fire or impact by vehicles. We respond to all reports of dangerous buildings, walls and structures and take action to safeguard the occupants and passers-by. If we find that the building is immediately dangerous, we have legal powers to evacuate the building and/or surrounding area and make safe. The Building Standards team has a responsibility to deal with dangerous building situations whether the building is empty or still in use.

A defective building is a building showing obvious signs of deterioration such as cracks in a chimney which whilst in need of repair are not immediately dangerous.  If these problem areas are left unattended to they could end up becoming dangerous. We inspect and advise all owners of what works require to be carried out to avoid potential future danger.

The Building Standards office co-ordinates this work and consequently Building Standards staff are closely involved in the technical assessment and regular site inspection of Sports Grounds and stands.

Building Standards acts in an advisory capacity to the Council’s Licensing Board. Premises such as public houses, restaurants, cinemas, theatres and betting offices are covered. The service gives consideration to several areas including means of escape, emergency lighting, WC provisions, occupant capacity and more.

An application is required for a temporary raised structure erected 600 mm or more above ground level. This includes, raised/terraced seating, a stage and any other structure to where the public have access.

We are responsible for inspecting raised structures and issuing consent to use such structures in our geographic area under section 89 of the Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982.

This consent is required for all raised structures which take the form of a platform, stand, staging or other similar structures, common examples of structures requiring permission are:

• temporary tiered seating at sporting events or circuses;
• staging at rock festivals and concerts;
• media platforms e.g. for cameramen;
• siting of trailers for use as a stage.

Before you demolish all or part of a structure, you will nearly always need a building warrant to demolish. You may also need planning permission.

We administrate the delivery of the grant funded disabled adaptation scheme.

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) panels have been identified in four Fife Council properties. The panels are in good condition, there are no immediate concerns regarding the buildings, and mitigation plans are being put in place to manage these.

For more information see Update on RAAC in Fife Council buildings