Portal launched for online building warrant applications

A new eBuildingStandards system for submission of applications for building warrants and completion certificates through one web portal has been launched by the Scottish Government.

Sitting alongside the ePlanning service begun in January, the new service, developed in collaboration with Scotland's 32 local authorities, will streamline the process of applying for building work both on individual home improvement projects and for larger commercial developments.

The portal enables:

• electronic submission to local authorities of building warrant applications and completion certificates;
• electronic payment of associated fees directly to the local authority;
• submission of digital copies of supporting documentation, eliminating the need to print and post.

Ministers say that together, the two portals offer applicants and local authorities an opportunity to save in cost and time with every application made online, which could see savings of over £73m over the next five years to customers and local authorities.

Local Government and Housing Minister Kevin Stewart commented: “In today’s world we know that customers want to engage digitally with local and central government.

“The drive to expand to eBuildingStandards came from customer feedback. We listened and responded to this and will continue to do so. This is our second eDevelopment service, following on from launch of the refreshed ePlanning service earlier this year.

“The new service went live as planned, and has already been a clear hit with customers. In its first week, over 500 applications were submitted – exceeding our predictions.”

Both portals can be found at www.ebuildingstandards.scot/eDevelopmentClient/