IrelandThe builder didn't comply with building regulations.
If a builder fails to comply with building regulations in Ireland, the local authority can issue an enforcement notice under section 152 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to require remedial works or demolition.
What the Law Says
The Planning and Development Act 2000 gives local authorities the power to enforce compliance with building regulations when unauthorised development occurs — including failure to meet statutory building standards.
Under section 152 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, a local authority may serve an enforcement notice on the owner or occupier of land or a building where it appears that unauthorised development has taken place. This includes construction that does not comply with building regulations — for example, unsafe structural design, inadequate fire safety measures, or non-compliant accessibility features.
The enforcement notice must specify the breach, the steps required to remedy it (such as carrying out remedial works or demolishing part or all of the structure), and a reasonable timeframe for compliance — usually not less than 21 days.
Crucially, the Act states that no enforcement action may be taken more than two years after the unauthorised development was substantially completed — unless the breach involves ongoing non-compliance or is concealed.
Statutory TextWhere it appears to a planning authority that unauthorised development has taken place, the authority may serve an enforcement notice on the owner or occupier of the land or building concerned.
— Planning and Development Act 2000, s. 152 — Enforcement notices
What to Do
Contact your local authority’s planning enforcement office immediately to report the non-compliance.
Gather evidence (e.g., photos, building control reports, correspondence with the builder).
Cooperate with any inspection or investigation by the local authority.
If served with an enforcement notice, seek legal or technical advice before responding — you may appeal to An Bord Pleanála within 4 weeks.
If you’re the homeowner, you may have separate rights against the builder under contract law or the Defective Premises Act 1972 (though not referenced here).
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.