The role and responsibilities of the Building and Construction Agency

The Building and Construction Agency (BCA) was set up to create stability and accountability in the building and construction sector that fosters a better environment for all.

Set up in 2019, as per Legal Notice LN192, the primary role and responsibility of the Agency is to help create better management of the building and construction sector. BCA is responsible for the initiation of designs, as well as, the implementation and dissemination of policies.

It is also responsible for the consolidation and review of laws and regulations, the compilation of the minimum standards and best practices for the industry forming the national building code. These building and construction regulations deal with the constructional details of buildings and present the minimum required standards which safeguard all third parties that may be affected by the works.

The Agency also regulates construction related implementation methods, in-building physical infrastructure and that buildings are energy-efficient. Excavation works, demolition or removal of existing structures, building of additional storeys or load-bearing structures and construction of new buildings all form part of these regulations.

When a planning permission is issued, it gives the applicant the right to build, modify, or retain a structure.

This includes planning permissions regarding the use of land and buildings and the impact such developments have on the environment. After an applicant has been granted a planning permission, but prior to the commencement of the works on site, the BCA steps in to regulate the construction method.

An architect must present a list of the individuals responsible for the execution of the project to the BCA, as well as, various other documents such as the Method Statement.

One must engage a warranted architect to ensure that the proposal complies with the building regulations. The Agency will then communicate the clearance to the architect and developer responsible for the development/project; which document is available to the public on the EApps portal which can be found on the website of the Planning Authority.

The Agency collaborates with other agencies, corporations, authorities, government and non-government entities to carry out its functions efficiently.

The Agency is engaged in all the preparations to set up the Building and Construction Authority, envisioning a self-regulating building and construction sector with the aim of promoting peace of mind in the Maltese islands.

For more information about BCA one may visit: https://bca.org.mt