You can do a higher national diploma, foundation degree or degree in a subject like:

• building studies
• civil engineering
• structural engineering
• building control surveying
• building surveying

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

You could do a college course, which may help when you apply for trainee jobs as an assistant in building control. 

Courses include:

• construction and the built environment
• building control surveying
• T Level in Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for these courses vary.

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level

You can apply to do a Building Control Surveyor Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship.

This can take around 4 years to complete and combines on-the-job training with off-site study.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

• 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship

You may be able to move into building control if you have qualifications and extensive experience in a related area, such as construction management, structural or civil engineering, or surveying.

You'll need:

• knowledge of building and construction
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• customer service skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• knowledge of public safety and security
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

You'll need to:

• have a full driving licence

As a building control officer, you'll:

• assess construction plans and carry out site inspections
• advise building owners and the public on Building Regulations
• work closely with architects, builders and engineers
• check that projects meet design, safety, energy conservation and accessibility standards
• carry out enforcement actions where required
• survey unsafe buildings and advise on remedial work or demolition
• maintain accurate records of issues and decisions taken

You could work in an office or on a construction site.

Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers and at height.

You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.