Building Inspection & Permits
Table of Contents
You are required to engage in the permitting and inspection process if you:
- Have received Full Planning Approval and are ready to start construction.
- Need to re-connect a property to the BVIEC electrical grid.
- Are installing a generator, UPS, or renewable energy system.
- Intend to demolish an existing structure.
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The Master Permit Card
Think of the Permit Card as your project’s passport. It must remain on-site at all times. After every successful inspection, the Inspector will sign this card. Do not proceed to the next stage of construction until your card has been signed.
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Earth Change Permit
Managed by your General Contractor this step is primarily used to ensure proper placement of your building.
- When: Before any excavation is done.
- Requirement: The building must be "set-out" by a licensed surveyor and verified on site by our Building Inspector.
Once this has been verified (including Inspector's signing of the Permit Card) excavation may begin.
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Structural Inspections
Managed by your General Contractor, these ensure the building's "bones" are strong.
- When: Footings/Foundation (before pouring),
- Floor Slabs (before pouring), and
- Columns, Ring Beams/Roof Connection (before pouring) .
- Notice: Call 468-2158 at least 48 hours in advance.
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Mechanical (Electrical) Inspections
Managed by your Licensed Electrician, these happen before the walls are closed up.
- When: Before pouring concrete slabs or installing drywall. All conduits and boxes must be visible.
- Requirement: An application fee and the electrician's signature are required.
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Final Electrical
Managed by your Licensed Electrician, this is required before permanent power can be connected to the building. This is the final step before occupancy. The Inspector verifies that all switches, panels, and devices are live and safe. Once passed, you can request a permanent connection from BVIEC.
Once your final electrical and structural inspections are signed off, you are ready to apply for your final Certificate of Occupancy
Essential Documents
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Power & Back-up Systems
For those adding independent power sources:
- Generators: Requires a location inspection before installation and a final inspection after.
- Renewable Energy (Solar/UPS): Requires BVIEC Schematic Approval first. This involves a joint inspection between BVIEC and TCPD.
Essential Documents
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Plumbing Inspections
Managed by your Licensed Plumber and these happen at various stages.
- Plumbing Rough-in inspection must be requested before slabs are poured and walls are closed up.
- Septic Tank inspection must requested before the top slab of the Septic tank is poured.
- Final Plumbing Inspection must be completed before the Final Building Inspection is requested. This ensures that
- the building is properly connected to the septic tank,
- the septic tank is connected to the soak away, and
- Civil works including site drainage, is properly completed
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How to Request an Inspection
To keep your project on schedule, follow this standard procedure:
- Advance Notice: Schedule your inspection at least 48 hours in advance (Tortola) or 72 hours (Sister Islands).
- Submission: Email your completed application form and proof of fee payment to tcpapplications@gov.vg.
- On-Site Requirements: You must have the following ready for the Inspector:
- The Permit Card.
- The Approved Stamped Drawings.
- The Licensed Professional (Contractor or Electrician) must be present.
- Identify Your Site: Provide the Block and Parcel number or your Application Number to ensure the Inspector finds the correct location.
Warning: Proceeding to the next stage of construction without a "Pass" signature on your Permit Card will result in a Stop Work Order and significant financial penalties.
What You Need/Requirements Title
Demolition Permits
If you are removing a structure, you don't need a "stage" inspection, but you do need a Method Statement. This is a document explaining how you will tear it down without hurting the neighbors or the environment. Once approved, you must give 48 hours' notice before the machines start moving.
Contact Information
Town and Country Planning Department - Tortola
Second Floor, R.G. Hodge Plaza
Road Town, Tortola
Virgin Islands (British) VG1110
Telephone: 284 468-2158
Email: tcp@gov.vg