BUILDING CONTROL ACT, 2013

Implementation Guide

JUNE, 2020
 Implementation Guide

Contents

Foreword.........................................................................................................................................................................................................................v

Disclaimer.................................................................................................................................................................................................................... vi

1. BACKGROUND........................................................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1. The need for a specific law to regulate building operations................................................................... 1

1.2. The Building Control Act....................................................................................................................................................... 1

1.3. The Building Control Regulations, 2020.................................................................................................................. 3

1.4. The National Building Code, 2019.................................................................................................................................. 4

1.4.1. The National Building (Building Standards) Code, 2019.................................................................................... 4

1.4.2. The National Building (Structural Design) Code, 2019........................................................................................ 4

1.4.3. The National Building (Standards for Electrical Installations in Buildings) Code, 2019............... 4

1.4.4. The National Building (Accessibility Standards for Persons with Disabilities) Code, 2019......... 5

1.4.5. The National Building (Standards for Mechanical Installations in Buildings) Code, 2019.......... 5

1.4.6. The National Building (Post Code Numbering) Code, 2019............................................................................ 5

1.5. Other relevant laws.................................................................................................................................................................. 5

1.5.1. Constitution...................................................................................................................................................................................... 5

1.5.2. The Physical Planning Act, 2010, Act No. 8 of 2010................................................................................................ 5

1.5.3. The National Environment Act, 2019, Act No. 5 of 2019...................................................................................... 5

1.5.4. Land Act, Cap. 227........................................................................................................................................................................ 6

1.5.5. Registration of Titles Act, Cap. 230................................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.6. Local Governments Act, Cap. 243...................................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.7. Public Health Act, Cap. 281..................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.8. Occupational Health and Safety Act, 2006, Act No. 9 of 2006....................................................................... 6

1.5.9. The Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act, 2003, Act No.1 of 2003..................................... 6

1.5.10. Engineers Registration Act, Cap.271.......................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.11. Surveyors Registration Act, Cap.275.......................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.12. Architects Registration Act, Cap.269......................................................................................................................... 6

1.5.13. The Police Act, Cap. 303...................................................................................................................................................... 7

2. Institutional Framework for Building Control........................................................................................................... 7

2.1. The National Building Review Board................................................................................................................................... 7

2.1.1. Functions of the National Building Review Board................................................................................................ 8

2.2. Building Committee........................................................................................................................................................................ 8

2.2.1. Building Committee at the district.................................................................................................................................. 9

2.2.2. Building Committee at urban authority...................................................................................................................... 9

2.2.3. Functions of Building Committees................................................................................................................................ 10

2.3. The Building Control Officer......................................................................................................................................................11

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2.4. Proof of ownership of land..........................................................................................................................................................12

2.4.1. Certificate of title.........................................................................................................................................................................12

2.4.2. Power of attorney....................................................................................................................................................................... 14

2.4.3. Other satisfactory proof of ownership or interest in land......................................................................... 14

3. THE BUILDING PERMIT.....................................................................................................................................................................16

3.1. Scrutiny and approval of building plans.................................................................................................................16

3.1.1. Assessment of Approval Fees........................................................................................................................................16

3.1.2. Receipt of Applications......................................................................................................................................................16

3.1.3. Registration of Application.............................................................................................................................................17

3.1.4. Application Scrutiny............................................................................................................................................................17

3.1.5. Building Committee Meetings.................................................................................................................................... 18

3.1.6. Building Committee Outcome................................................................................................................................... 18

3.2. Issuance of the building permit....................................................................................................................................19

3.3. Review of permits for minor building works.......................................................................................................19

3.4. Transition.........................................................................................................................................................................................19

4. BUILDING SITE OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT.................................................................................................. 20

4.1. Notification of Commencement................................................................................................................................. 20

4.2. Demolition works.................................................................................................................................................................... 20

4.3. Site Operations.......................................................................................................................................................................... 20

4.4. Temporary Builders Sheds............................................................................................................................................... 20

4.5. Temporary sanitary facilities............................................................................................................................................21

4.6. Excavations and measures for stability of site..................................................................................................21

4.7. Compulsory maintenance..................................................................................................................................................21

5. THE OCCUPATION PERMIT...........................................................................................................................................................22

5.1. Scrutiny and approval of building works....................................................................................................................22

5.1.1. Receipt of Applications for Occupation Permits Compliance checks.........................................................22

5.1.2. Registration of Application........................................................................................................................................................22

5.1.3. Application Scrutiny.......................................................................................................................................................................23

5.1.4. Building Committee Meeting.................................................................................................................................................23

5.1.5. Building Committee Outcome...............................................................................................................................................23

5.1.6. Assessment of Approval Fees................................................................................................................................................. 24

5.2. Issuance of the occupation permit................................................................................................................................. 24

ANNEX 1: TYPES OF CERTIFICATE OF TITLE..........................................................................................................................................25

ANNEX 2: COPY OF POWER OF ATTORNEY..........................................................................................................................................31

ANNEX 3: SAMPLE AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF LAND ATTACHED................................................................................ 34

ANNEX 4: COPY OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION/PROBATE.............................................................................................36

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ANNEX 5: SCRUTINY OF ARCHITECTURAL PLANS.........................................................................................................................40

ANNEX 6A: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (REINFORCED CONCRETE).................................................. 43

ANNEX 6B: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (STEEL)................................................................................................48

ANNEX 6C: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (WOOD)................................................................................................51

ANNEX 6D: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (MASONRY)......................................................................................52

ANNEX 7: SCRUTINY OF ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS..........................................................................................................................53

ANNEX 8: SCRUTINY OF MECHANICAL DRAWINGS......................................................................................................................55

ANNEX 9: INSPECTION BOOKLET...............................................................................................................................................................57

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Foreword
The National Building Review Board (NBRB), a semi-autonomous body, under the Ministry
of Works and Transport, was established under section 3 of the Building Control Act, 2013
(the Act) to, monitor building developments in the country and to oversee, inspect and
monitor the operations of Building Committees among others.

The Minister of Works and Transport issued the National Building Code, 2019 (the Code)
and the Building Control Regulations, 2020 (the Regulations) under sections 46 and 52
of the Act, respectively. The complexity of the Code and Regulations makes it critical for
the membership of the Building Committees to have an in-depth understanding of the
legal and institutional framework in the implementation of the Act. The guide has been
developed to ease the implementation of the building control legal framework. It is my
hope that the material contained herein will ease implementation of the Act, Regulations,
the Code, as well as the use of building control standard documents, manuals and forms.

Finally, I wish to confer my profound gratitude to Arch. Verna Mbabazi and Arch. Mark
Bwambale (Uganda Society of Architects); Eng. Caleb Tugumisirize, Eng. Dr. Abraham
Judah Bumalirivu Muwanguzi and Eng Edward Kasule Musisi (Uganda Institution of
Professional Engineers); Ms Juliet Komugisa (Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs)
and Arch. Jerome Olowo Stowell (NBRB Secretariat) for the credible input and eventual
preparation of this implementation guide. I similarly thank their parent institutions for
seconding to us such a dedicated team of true technocrats.

Eng. Flavia G. Bwire

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

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Disclaimer
The material and information contained in this Implementation Guide is for general
information and ease of reference only. The information in the Guide is not intended
to substitute the laws, Regulations and Code cited in this Guide. Users of the Guide are
encouraged to refer to the detailed text of the relevant law in order to make any business,
legal or any other decisions.

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1. BACKGROUND
Prior to enactment of the Building Control Act, 2013, building operations were regulated
by the Public Health Act Cap. 269 and regulations made thereunder. However, the
Public Health Act did not comprehensively address the concerns of the construction of
buildings and related installations in Uganda, thus the need for a specific law to regulate
the construction of buildings.

1.1. The need for a specific law to regulate building operations

The construction of buildings and installations have been carried out in cities, urban
centres and rural areas without adequate supervision and monitoring by Government.
This has greatly compromised public safety due to failure to ensure structural integrity of
buildings, failure to observe building standards and adherence to the law.

The construction of buildings has had numerous challenges including-

(a) Deficiencies in the law. The Public Health Act, Cap. 269 was inadequate to regulate
the building sector due to the following-

i. prescription of imperial units instead of SI units;

ii. fines, fees and penalties that do not reflect the current social and economic
trends;

iii. reference to some materials that are no longer in use and some which are
considered a health hazard;

iv. exclusion of some materials and construction methods that have evolved with
change in technology; and

v. no requirement for construction of buildings that allow for special accessibility

for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

(b) uncontrolled use of substandard materials resulting in a high rate of construction

related accidents;

(c) unplanned human settlements;

(d) inefficient building developments;

(e) Unhygienic, unsafe buildings and general lack of maintenance.

The Building Control Act, 2013 was enacted to address the above challenges and to
ensure safety and orderly developments on the limited and highly competitive land
available in the country.

1.2. The Building Control Act

The purpose of the Building Control Act, 2013 (Act) is to consolidate, harmonise and
amend the law relating to the erection of buildings, to provide for building standards, to
establish a National Building Review Board and Building Committees, to promote and
ensure planned, decent and safe building structure that are developed in harmony with
the environment.

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The Building Control Act, 2013, has seven Parts and 3 Schedules as highlighted below-

1. Part I provides for preliminary matters of the Act such as commencement and
interpretation of important phrases used in the Act.

2. Part II- establishes the National Building Review Board as a body corporate
composed of 16 members representing various institutions such as the Ministry
of Works and Transport, Ministry of Lands Housing and Urban Development,
Ministry of Health, professional bodies regulating Engineers, Architects, Lawyers,
Surveyors and Physical Planners, interalia, as elaborated further under institutional
arrangement for implementation of the Act.

3. Part III-deals with the Secretariat and other staff

The Board is supported by the Secretariat that is headed by the Executive Secretary
assisted by other staff. The Executive Secretary is the Chief Executive Officer of the
Board and is responsible for the day to day operations of the Board. (s.16).

The Board has powers to recruit staff under s.17 to assist it in the performance of its
functions and also to hire consultants under s.18.

4. Part IV –deals with Finances of the Board in sections 20-27 of the Act.
The Board is a self-accounting body whose source of funds is monies appropriated
by Parliament, fees for services rendered or from grants and donations from well-
wishers.

5. Part V establishes the Building Committees

Section 28 establishes a Building Committee at every district and urban council.

Section 29 provides for the functions of the Building Committee including-

i. to scrutinise and approve building plans;

ii. to issue building permits and occupation permits;
iii. to ensure that the design and construction of buildings and utilities to
which the public is to have access cater for persons with disabilities;
iv. to review decisions on applications for permits for minor building works
submitted to a building control officer under section 39; and
v. to ensure compliance with the Act.
More details on the committees are elaborated below under institutional
arrangement for implementation of the Act.

6. Part VI- deals with Control of Buildings Operations including powers of the Building
Committee to stop building operation under section 40 and power to order
remedial action on defective buildings under section 41. Further, under this Part,
the Minister has power to prohibit unsafe building methods and materials under
section 42. The Building Control Officer is empowered to enter any premises to
inspect or carry out tests under s.43. This Part also regulates the grant of occupation
permits (s.44) and liability for causing accidents on building construction site (s.45).

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It should be noted that it is no longer “business as usual” as the Act prescribes an

offence for any person whose negligence, commission or omission causes or leads
to the occurrence of an accident on a building construction site, which results
in the injury or death of another person, or the destruction of property. Such a
person is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding two hundred eighty eight
currency points or to imprisonment not exceeding twelve years or both.

7. Part VII- deals with Miscellaneous matters such as powers of the Minister to issue
the National Building Code under section 46 of the Act, reports required under the
Act (s.47), power of the Minister to give directions (s.48), delegation of Minister’s
powers and the extent of delegation (s.49), note however that the Minister cannot
delegate his or her powers to prohibit use of a building method or material,
power to issue the National Building Code and Regulations and power to amend
the Schedules to the Act. All other powers may be delegated by instrument of
delegation. Part VII also deals with service of notices, power of the Minister to issue
regulations (s.52), amendment of Schedules, transition and effect of the Act on
existing applicable laws. It should be noted that the Building Control Act, 2013
takes precedence over existing laws that are inconsistent with it.

8. Schedule 1 provides for the value of a currency point which is equivalent to twenty
thousand shillings.

9. Seclude 2 provides for meetings and procedure of the Board, including, calling
meetings, quorum, disclosure of interest of members and validity of proceedings
not affect by vacancy, among other matters.

10. Schedule 3 provides for meetings and procedure of Building Committees,

including, calling meetings, quorum, disclosure of interest of members and validity
of proceedings not affect by vacancy, among other matters.

1.3. The Building Control Regulations, 2020

Regulations are a type of subsidiary legislation issued by a “delegate of Parliament”

to prescribe the detailed procedural requirements necessary for operationalization
of an Act of Parliament.

In the case of the Building Control Act, 2013, section 52 empowers the Minister,
on the advice of the Board, to make regulations generally for better carrying into
effect of the provisions of the Act.

Under that provision, the BCR, 2020 were issued by the Minister and prescribe the
following procedural matters -

i. the content of building plans and other documents required to be submitted

under the Act;

ii. the procedure and the costs to be paid in respect of any appeal lodged with
the Board;

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iii. the penalties for breach of the Regulations.

1.4. The National Building Code, 2019

Section 46 of the Act empowers the Minister to issue the National Building Code
(NBC). The NBC provides for matters relating to -

 Building Standards

 Structural Design

 Plumbing

 Electrical installations

 Mechanical installations

 Accessibility Standards; and

 Postal Code Numbering.

It should be noted that the Act does not define the word ‘Code’. However,
according to Blacks Law Dictionary 8th Ed, “a code is a complete system of
positive law, carefully arranged and officially promulgated; a systematic
collection or revision of laws, rules or regulations. A Code is a compilation not
just of existing statutes, but also much of the unwritten law on a subject, which
is newly enacted as a complete system of law.”

On basis of that construction of the term Code, the NBC has been issued by the
Minister compiling existing written standards (such as Public Health Building
Rules) and unwritten standards relating to building operations.

The National Building Code has been issued in chapters as follows-

1.4.1. The National Building (Building Standards) Code, 2019.

This provides standards for both private and public buildings in aspects of site
laying, building design, building materials, building services, environmental
protection and energy efficiency in buildings.

1.4.2.The National Building (Structural Design) Code, 2019

This provides the basis of design, standards for loads, the characteristics of
strength of structural materials, geotechnical investigations to ensure that
buildings perform satisfactorily during the intended life, sustain all loads and
deformations of normal construction and use and afford adequate durability
and resistance to the effects of nature; to ensure due regard is given to economy
in design, structural safety, serviceability and durability.

1.4.3.The National Building (Standards for Electrical Installations in Buildings)

Code, 2019

This provides for standards for electrical installations including designs,

methods of installation, fundamental requirements for safety, wiring and
wiring accessories, underground cables standards, solar power supply system,
fire alarm systems, etc.

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1.4.4. The National Building (Accessibility Standards for Persons with Disabilities)
Code, 2019

This provides for standards that must be complied with by all buildings accessible
by PWDs. E.g. signage used should be international symbol of access- in terms
of direction, name of facility, height of lettering, reserved parking slots, number
of parking clots, marking, size of slots, location of the parking slots viz a vie
entrance of facility (50m) etc.

1.4.5. The National Building (Standards for Mechanical Installations in Buildings)

Code, 2019

This deals with standards for plumbing works, drainage works, septic tanks,
cess pools and latrines.

1.4.6. The National Building (Post Code Numbering) Code, 2019

This adopts addressing standards which include a description of the different

postal and geographical address type to facilitate local government and other
agencies, business and postal courier operators in the efficient and effective
delivery of postal and other social services.

1.5. Other relevant laws

Other laws that relevant to building operations include-

1.5.1. Constitution

Is the Supreme Law of Uganda upon which all other laws must
conform.

1.5.2. The Physical Planning Act, 2010, Act No. 8 of 2010

This Act provides for the establishment of the National Physical Planning
Board, its composition, functions and procedure of the Board; it establishes
district and urban physical planning committees; provides for the making
and approval of physical development plans and for the applications for
development permission.

1.5.3. The National Environment Act, 2019, Act No. 5 of 2019

This Act provides for the law relating to environmental management in Uganda
and the management of the environment for sustainable development.
The Act also establishes the National Environment Management Authority
as a coordinating, monitoring, regulatory and supervisory body for all
activities relating to environment; provides for emerging environmental
issues including climate change, the management of hazardous chemicals
and biodiversity offsets. It provides for strategic environmental assessment;
how to address environmental concerns arising out of petroleum activities
and midstream operations, management of plastics and plastic products.
The Act further establishes the Environmental Protection Force; provides
for enhanced penalties for offences under the Act.

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1.5.4. Land Act, Cap. 227

The Land Act provides for the tenure, ownership and management of land
and it amends and consolidates the law relating to tenure, ownership and
management of land in Uganda.

1.5.5. Registration of Titles Act, Cap. 230

This Act regulates the transfer of land and registration of titles in Uganda.

1.5.6. Local Governments Act, Cap. 243

This Act provides for the law relating to local governments in line with the
Constitution and gives effect to the decentralisation and devolution of
functions, powers and services. It provides for decentralisation at all levels of
local governments to ensure good governance and democratic participation
in, and control of, decision making by the people; it further provides for
revenue and the political and administrative setup of local governments;
and election of local councils.

1.5.7. Public Health Act, Cap. 281

This Act consolidates the law regarding to preservation of public health in

Uganda.

1.5.8. Occupational Health and Safety Act, 2006, Act No. 9 of 2006

This Act consolidates and harmonises the law relating to occupational

health and repeals the Factories Act, Cap.220.

1.5.9. The Public Procurement and Disposal of Assets Act, 2003, Act No.1 of 2003

This Act establishes the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets
Authority to formulate policies and regulate practices in respect of public
procurement and disposal activities. This Act is particularly relevant to public
funded projects.

1.5.10. Engineers Registration Act, Cap.271

This Act provides for the establishment of the Engineers Registration Board,
its powers and functions and provides for the registration of engineers.

1.5.11. Surveyors Registration Act, Cap.275

This Act provides for the establishment of the Surveyors Registration Board,
its powers and functions and provides for the registration of surveyors.

1.5.12. Architects Registration Act, Cap.269

This Act provides for the establishment of the Architects Registration Board,
defines the powers and functions of the board and provides for the registration
of architects.

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1.5.13. The Police Act, Cap. 303

This Act provides for the structure, organisation and functions of the police
force, a police disciplinary code of conduct, a Police Welfare Fund, a police
tender board among others. Under section 4 of the Act, the police are
mandated to among others enforce the laws of Uganda and to prevent
and detect crime in the society. As such, the police is an important body
in as far as investigation of offences under the Building Control Act, 2013
is concerned. Once the police have investigated any criminal matter, the
record of investigation is submitted to the Office of the Director of Public
Prosecutions who, under article 120 of the Constitution, is mandate to
prosecute criminal matters in courts of law.

2. Institutional Framework for Building Control

The Act establishes the following institutions responsible for its implementation-

1. The National Building Review Board

2. The Building Committee

3. The Office of the Building Control Officer

The institutional framework established under the Act is intended to ensure that
construction of buildings from planning to completion and later on maintenance is
done in a safe way and in harmony with the environment.

2.1. The National Building Review Board

The NBRB is a semi-autonomous body established under section 3 of the Building

Control Act, 2013.

The Board is a representative board composed of sixteen members as follows-

(a) one representative of the department responsible for building works;

(b) one representative of the department responsible for physical planning;

(c) one representative of the ministry responsible for water and environment;

(d) one representative of the department responsible for housing;

(e) a representative of the Ministry responsible for persons with disabilities;

(f) one representative of each of the following professions, nominated for

appointment by the relevant professional body or association—

(i) engineers;

(ii) architects;

(iii) physical planners;

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(iv) surveyors;

(v) lawyers;

(g) a public health officer from the Ministry responsible for health;

(h) a representative of persons with disabilities nominated for appointment by

the National Council for Disability;

(i) a representative of workers nominated for appointment by the national

trade union centres;

(j) a representative of Uganda Local Authorities Association of Uganda

nominated for appointment by the Uganda Local Governments Association;

(k) a representative of Urban Authorities Association of Uganda nominated for

appointment by the Association of Urban Authorities;

(l) one person from the private sector nominated for appointment by the
Private Sector Foundation.

2.1.1. Functions of the National Building Review Board

Under section 9 of the Act, the functions of the Board are-

(a) to monitor building developments;

(b) to ensure building standards for design and construction of buildings;

(c) to oversee, inspect and monitor the operations of Building Committees;

(d) to oversee, inspect and monitor the operations of Building Committees;

(e) to hear and determine appeals from persons dissatisfied with the
decisions of a Building Committee;

(f) to determine the fees to be charged by urban and district building

committees for approval of plans, issue of building permits and
occupation permits.

The establishment of the Board to monitor building operations and

oversee the operations of the Building Committees at local governments
is intended to improve the building operations in Uganda. This is expected
to be through coordinating and working with all stakeholders in the sector
including professionals at local governments and private sector, developers,
contractors, among others by guiding on compliance with the relevant laws
and ensuring accountability of any person for noncompliance with the Act.

2.2. Building Committee

Section 28 of the Act establishes a Building Committee at every district and

urban authority.

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2.2.1. Building Committee at the district

The Building Committee at the district is composed of the following

members-

i. Chief Administrative Officer

ii. Town Clerk

iii. Chairperson of the Planning and Development Committee of the District

Council

iv. the officer responsible for physical planning

v. the officer responsible for health

vi. the officer responsible for engineering

vii. the officer responsible for land management

viii. the officer responsible for environment management

ix. an officer responsible for architecture

x. a representative of the PWDs nominated by the National Council for

Disability at the district level

xi. a member of the district executive committee

xii. an officer from the police department responsible for fire prevention

2.2.2. Building Committee at urban authority

The Building Committee at urban authority is composed of the following

members-

i. Town Clerk

ii. Chairperson of the Planning and Development Committee of the District

Council

iii. Chairperson of the Urban Planning and Development Committee of the

Urban Council

iv. the officer responsible for physical planning

v. the officer responsible for health

vi. the officer responsible for engineering

vii. the officer responsible for land management

viii. the officer responsible for environment management

ix. an officer responsible for architecture

x. a representative of the persons with disabilities nominated by the

National Council for Disability at the district level

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The Building Committees have all the required professionals as members

to ensure that all aspects of building permit application are adequately
assessed before permit approval.

2.2.3. Functions of Building Committees

Under section 29 the functions of each Building Committee is-

(a) to scrutinise and approve building plans;

(b) to issue building permits and occupation permits;

(c) to ensure that the design and construction of buildings and

utilities to which the public is to have access cater for persons with
disabilities;

(d) to review decisions on applications for permits for minor building

works submitted to a building control officer under section 39;

(e) to ensure that the Act is complied with; and

(f) to perform any other function assigned to it by the Board

• Building Committees may co-opt professionals to assist in the

performance of their duties under s.30. This is an important provision
especially for districts and urban councils that may not have all the
required professionals to co-opt the professionals in the private sector to
assist in the scrutiny of building plans.

• S.31 and Schedule 3 provide for the procedure of the Building Committees
including calling of meetings, quorum and decisions, minutes of the
meeting, validity of proceedings not affected by vacancy, disclosure of
interest by member, interalia.

• It should be noted that under paragraph 2 of Schedule 3, the quorum

for a meeting of a Building Committee is two-thirds of the members
including at least one member of the District Executive Committee in
the case of a District Building Committee or one executive member
of the Urban Planning and Development Committee in the case of an
Urban Building Committee and decisions are made by a majority of
the votes of the members present and voting. However, in case of an
equality of votes, the person presiding at the meeting has a casting vote
in addition to his or her deliberative vote.

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• Under paragraph 4 of Schedule 3, the validity of any proceedings of a

Building Committee is not affected by a vacancy in its membership or by
any defect in the appointment or qualification of a member or by reason
that a person not entitled, took part in its proceedings.

• It follows from the above paragraphs, the Building Committee need not
have all the members referred to under section 28 of the Act in order to
conduct its affairs, presence of two thirds of the members is sufficient.

It should be noted that the Building Committees have been established by

the Act, therefore, to operationalise the relevant provisions of the law, the
Chief Administrative Officer in the case of a District Building Committee
and Town Clerk, in the case of Building Committee at Urban Authority is
expected to formally appoint the members, set the terms of reference of
the Committees (in accordance with section 29 of the Act) and induct them
on their roles.

• Note: the NBRB under section 52 of the Act is required to recommend to

the Minister the remuneration and allowances that may be paid to the
members of the Committee.

2.3. The Building Control Officer

Section 32 of the Act establishes the office of the Building Control Officer (BCO).
The BCO is required to be appointed by the District Service Commission.

Under section 33, the functions of BCOs are-

(a) to make recommendations to a Building Committee;

(b) to forward all applications to the Building Committee for review;

(c) to ensure that any instructions given by a Building Committee are complied
with;

(d) to inspect—

i. the erection of any building;

ii. the demolition of any building;
iii. any activity, in respect with sections 35 and 39;

(e) to carry out regular inspection of completed buildings and any duty
assigned by the Building Committee.

The qualifications of BCOs and Assistant BCOs are prescribed under the

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Building Control Regulations, 2020.

Under regulation 18, a Building Control Officer or Urban Building Control

Officer shall be a degree holder in either architecture, engineering, or quantity
surveying, with a minimum of five years continuous employment in the
construction industry and registered with the relevant professional body.

While an Assistant Building Control Officer shall be a diploma holder in

architecture, engineering or quantity surveying, a member of the relevant
professional association with a minimum of three years continuous
employment in the construction industry.

This institutional framework established under the Act is intended to ensure

that construction of buildings from planning to completion and later on
maintenance is done in a way that’s safe and harmonious with the environment.

2.4. Proof of ownership of land

Regulations 19, 21 and 22 of the Building Control Regulations, 2020 provide

for application for a building permit in respect of minor building works,
commercial or residential building operations, complex structures and public
building operations.

Subsection (2) of regulations 19, 21 and 22 requires an application for building

permit to be accompanied by “proof of ownership of land in accordance
with the Land Act, including the certificate of title, power of attorney from
the registered proprietor or other satisfactory proof of ownership”.

The Building Control Regulations 2020, clearly guides the Building Control
Officer in case of minor building works, and the Building Committee in the
case of other classes of buildings regarding proof of land ownership, that is to
say, land ownership may be proved by-

(a) a certificate of title;

(b) power of attorney; or

(c) other satisfactory proof of ownership.

2.4.1. Certificate of title

The Constitution and the Land Act, provide for the different forms of land

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tenure systems for which certificates of title may be issued. Accordingly,

the Building Control Officer and the Building Committee should carefully
scrutinise proof of ownership or interest in the land in respect of which an
application for a building permit is made before making a decision on the
application.

The Constitution

Article 237 of the Constitution provides for land ownership.

Clause (1) provides that Land in Uganda belongs to the citizens of Uganda and
shall vest in them in accordance with the land tenure systems provided for in
the Constitution.

Clause (3) provides for the land tenure system and states that land in Uganda
shall be owned in accordance with the following land tenure systems-

(a) customary;

(b) freehold;

(c) mailo; and

(d) leasehold.

Clause (8) of article 237 protects the security of occupancy on land of lawful or
bonafide occupants on mailo land, freehold or leasehold land.

The Land Act

The Land Act, under Part II reechoes the land tenure system under article 237
of the Constitution and provides for a certificate of customary occupancy and
a certificate of occupancy for lawful and bonafide occupants (see sections
2-38 of the Land Act).

From the above provisions, registrable interests are clearly elaborated as

follows –

(a) customary;

(b) freehold;

(c) mailo;

(d) leasehold;

(e) lawful and bonafide occupancy.

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Under section 59 of the Registration of Titles Act, a certificate of title is

conclusive proof of land ownership or interest in the land.

It follows therefore that presentation of a certificate of title is conclusive

proof of ownership or interest in the land.

The Building Committee or Building Control Officer when confronted with

an application for building permit, should scrutinise the title presented and
carry out a search on the title by contacting the Ministry responsible for
lands to confirm ownership (See copies of different types of certificate of
title in Annex 1)

2.4.2. Power of attorney

Under section 146 of the Registration of Titles Act, a proprietor of land may
appoint any person to act for him or her in dealing with his or her land
by signing a power of attorney. In such a case, where an application for a
building permit is submitted to the Building Committee by another person
not being the registered proprietor of the land, the Committee should
request for a power of attorney. The power of attorney must be clear as to
the extent of authority granted (see copy of power of attorney in Annex
2).

2.4.3. Other satisfactory proof of ownership or interest in land

Other satisfactory proof of ownership may include-

(i) Agreement

An agreement in respect of land may also be used as proof of an interest

in the land. This may be a sale agreement (before formal transfer in case of
titled land) or agreement between owner of land and another to use the
latter’s land for a specified period of time.

Care must be taken by the Building Committee or Building Control Officer

to ensure that the agreement has all the relevant information to prove an
interest in the land. Some of the important information to look out for in
an agreement to ensure that it is authentic include-the signatures of the
parties, clear description of the land in respect of which the application
for building permit is sought. The agreement should describe location of
the land i.e. village, sub county, district, neighbours in the north, east, west,
south or at all the boundaries, the size of the land, and should also indicate
the witnesses to the agreement (witnesses should be persons of 18years and

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above) (See sample agreement in respect of land attached as Annex 3).

(ii) Letters of administration/ letters of probate

Letters of administration or letters of probate may also be used as proof

of interest in land where land of a deceased has not yet been transferred
into the name of an administrator or executor of an estate of deceased
person at the time of application for building permit (see copy of letters of
administration/ probate in Annex 4).

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3. THE BUILDING PERMIT

S 34(2)

i. A building permit gives the developer permission to carry out building operations
on their property as defined in the Act.
ii. A person who carries out a building operation without a permit commits an
offence [BCA, Section 34(2)]
iii. A building permit is evidence that a building has been designed according to
building standards enshrined in the National Building Code, 2019.

3.1. Scrutiny and approval of building plans

S 2; Schedules 2 & 3 – Forms 1&2

i. Building operations are interpreted in the Act and are classified in Schedule 2 of
the regulations.
ii. “Minor building works” are interpreted in Section 2 of the Act and Form 1 of
Schedule 3 shall apply.
iii. Form 2 of Schedule 3 of the Regulations shall apply for all other operations not
falling under (ii) above.

3.1.1. Assessment of Approval Fees

Reg. 38, Schedule 3 – Forms 1&2, Schedule 4

i. Approval Fees in consideration of the scrutiny of plans, permits and inspection

shall be assessed in accordance with Regulation 38, Schedule 4 of the Regulation
and the latest publication of fees in the Gazette.
ii. BCO should ensure all billable elements of the proposed building development
are billed and an invoice prepared for the developer
iii. Invoice should indicate a breakdown of all elements billed for ease of accountability
iv. BCO should use the opportunity to check completeness of applicant’s file at this
point as per Forms 1 and 2 of Schedule 3 of the Building Control Regulations
v. The BCO should advice on any lacking information to minimize incidences of
applicants presenting incomplete applications
vi. The prescribed application fees shall be paid on or before the day an application is
submitted to the Building Committee (Regulation 38(3))
vii. Incomplete or improper applications shall be returned to the applicant on
presentation. The applicant may resubmit the revised application and shall pay
resubmission fees as prescribed in Schedule 4 of the Regulations.

3.1.2. Receipt of Applications

Sections 2, 35, 39; Reg. 8, 19-23, 26, 36 Schedule 2, Schedule 3 – Forms 1&2,
Schedule 4

i. Preliminary building permit enquiries may be made in case of complex structures

or public buildings. These enquiries are free of charge.

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ii. Applications are to be made on Form 1 or 2, in schedule 3 of the regulations,

depending on category of building
iii. The Building Committee may receive applications in hard copy or electronic format
iv. The officer receiving application should confirm appropriateness of form used
and presence of all required documentation for the particular category of building
being proposed.
v. Ensure the professionals authoring any plans possess a current practicing
certificate. The BCO shall contact the relevant Professional Registration Boards for
updated list of practicing professionals.
vi. Incomplete or improper applications shall be returned to the applicant on
presentation.
vii. The applicant may resubmit the revised application and shall pay resubmission
fees as prescribed in Schedule 4 of the Regulations. In order to ensure this is
feasible and efficient, it is necessary that the committee delegates this function
to the BCO or other appropriate officer of the Building Control Authority manning
the receiving point for applications
viii. Reasons for return should be noted on the application forms, plans and records of
the Building Committee for proper accountability.
ix. Once the applicant has returned the application after rectifying any anomalies
previously raised, ensure resubmission fees have been paid before accepting the
application.

3.1.3. Registration of Application

Regulations Form 5 – Part II

i. BCs shall establish a building control records system to track their operations
and decisions for purposes of accountability. An application to a BC is usually
the first step establishing a relationship between an owner of a building
development and the BC.
ii. Specific attention shall be given to reporting requirements by the NBRB as
prescribed in Form 5 – Part II of the Regulations
iii. For uniformity, the NBRB recommends the following format for application
reference: Parish Postcode/Year/Application Number i.e BP/cccc/20--/nnn

3.1.4. Application Scrutiny

S29, 33; Reg. 8 – 17, 19 – 22, Schedule 3 Forms 1& 2

Physical Planning Act 2010, National Environmental Act 2019, Occupational

Safety and Health Act 2006, National Physical Planning Standards and
Guidelines (NPPSG), The Building Control (Accessibility Standards For Persons
With Disabilities) Code, 2019

i. Ensure all required documents contain all design and construction information
as is necessary to arrive at proper and informed decisions regarding a particular
application
ii. BCs are advised to establish a mechanism to ensure or confirm authenticity of

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documents or clearances from other agencies that form part of an application

iii. While examining site plans, ensure to base on the effective area of the site
excluding existing easements affecting the land such as roads traversing
the land, utility wayleaves/easements, etc. as well as encroachments by
neighbouring properties that have not been resolved.
iv. It is important that the applicant’s surveyor accurately maps out all this
information, as well as existing mature trees while conducting the boundary
survey required under R21 and R22 and this information shall be included as
appropriate on the context and/or site plan contemplated in R9.
v. The capacity of traversing and neighbouring utilities and the corresponding
width of easements shall be as prescribed by applicable law or as advised by
the relevant authority as easement extents may vary.
vi. Ensure that there is no material/significant deviation from the site plan
approved by PPC and ensure to seek the opinion of the Physical Planner in
case of deviations to ascertain materiality.
vii. Check that location, context/block and site plans possess the North arrow as
prescribed by regulations and ensure the orientation is consistent on all such
drawings.
viii. Check that scales and annotation used conform to the minimum prescribed
by the relevant regulation and that information is legible.
ix. Check that conditions in any EIA certificate or TIA clearance are adhered to
such as siting of the building, location and orientation of vehicular access and
exit points relative to the adjacent network, etc.
x. Subject to PPC approval conditions, any parking planned/designed for the
building development shall be located within the site boundaries
xi. In case of presentation of landscape plans, whether voluntarily or as a
requirement of the Committee, these shall conform to the regulations.
xii. Detailed checklists are included in Annex 1-4

3.1.5. Building Committee Meetings

S31, Schedule 3; Reg. 23(5), Schedule 3 Form 3 & 5

i. Meetings shall, as a minimum, adhere to standards prescribed in Schedule 3 of

the Act.
ii. The meeting shall consider recommendations from the Building Control
Officer as prescribed in Form 3 of Schedule 3 of the Regulations.
iii. Proceedings shall be recorded as prescribed in Form 5 – Part I of Schedule 3 of
the Regulations
iv. Monthly reports shall be submitted to the National Building Review Board as
per Form 5 – Part II of Schedule 3 of the Regulations

3.1.6. Building Committee Outcome

S33(c), Schedule 3; Reg. 24, Schedule 3 Form 4 – Part II

i. The Building Committee has thirty days to either issue a building permit to the
applicant or to defer or reject the application.
ii. The Building Committee shall notify the Building Control Officer of its decision

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as prescribed in Form 4 – Part II of Schedule 3 of the Regulations.

iii. The Building Control Officer shall ensure that any instruction given by the
Building Committee in accordance with the Act are complied with.
iv. Incomplete applications shall be returned to the Applicant. The applicant
may resubmit the application to the Building Committee and shall pay are
submission fees.

3.2. Issuance of the building permit

S29, 36, 38

Reg. 5(1)(d), 24(3), Schedule 3 - Form 4

i. The procedure for issuing building permits shall as prescribed in Section 36 of

the Act.
ii. In the case where the Building Committee approves a building permit
application, the Chairman shall sign the permit, the building plan and other
documents and return one endorsed copy to the applicant.
iii. The form of building permit is prescribed in Form 4(I) of Schedule 3 of the
Regulations.
iv. The professionals whose services shall be retained for the purpose of supervising
the construction of the building shall be indicated on the building permit.
Should the applicant chose to change the supervising team, the Building
Committee should be informed.
v. Applicants should be clearly informed about the time limit building operations
face as prescribe in Section 38 of the Act.

3.3. Review of permits for minor building works

S2, 39; Reg. 5, 19, Schedule 2, Schedule 3-Form 1

i. Minor building works are interpreted in section 2 of the Act and are classified
as category C buildings
ii. Applications for minor building works shall be made to the Building Control
Officer as prescribed in Regulation 19 and Form 1 of Schedule 3 of the Regulations
iii. Engagement of professionals for minor building works is optional.

3.4. Transition
S54

Any building or building operation commenced before the coming into force of this Act
and which does not conform to the standards prescribed by this Act shall be adjusted so
as to bring it in conformity with this Act within a period prescribed by the Minister.

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4. BUILDING SITE OPERATIONS AND MANAGEMENT

4.1. Notification of Commencement

Reg. 27

i. A person shall not commence a building operation prior to giving a notice in

writing to the Building Committee as prescribed in Reg. 27.
ii. All building operations shall be inspected in order to ensure compliance with
the Act.
iii. The Building Committee shall prescribe how inspections of building operations
shall be carried out through conditions in the building permit
iv. A report on the inspection of the stages shall be provided using the inspection
booklet attached as Annex 9.

4.2. Demolition works

Reg. 28

i. A Building Committee must approve all demolition works prior to being

undertaken.
ii. A Building Committee shall ensure adherence to all safety precautions during
demolition works as prescribed in Reg. 28

4.3. Site Operations

Reg. 29

It is the responsibility of the Building Committee to prescribe how site operations shall
be undertaken as prescribed in Reg. 29

4.4.Temporary Builders Sheds

Reg. 30

i. A developer may with the approval of the Building Committee erect temporary
builders sheds as prescribed by Reg. 30.
ii. The sheds shall be maintained in good order and condition at all times during
the building operations.

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4.5. Temporary sanitary facilities

Reg. 31

A person shall not commence any building operations without installing sanitary facilities
for personnel at the building site or at a reasonably close location as approved by the
Building Committee as prescribed by Reg.31

4.6. Excavations and measures for stability of site

Reg. 32

It is the function of the Building Committee to ensure that excavations are undertaken
safely as prescribed by Reg. 32

4.7. Compulsory maintenance.

Reg. 33

All buildings shall be subject to compulsory maintenance as prescribed by Reg. 33

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5. THE OCCUPATION PERMIT

S24, 44

i. It is the function of the Building Committee to issue Occupation Permits

ii. Upon the completion of a building, the owner of the building shall notify the
Building Committee of the practical completion and apply to the Building
Committee for an occupation permit.
iii. The Building Committee shall, within fourteen days after receipt of notification
of completion of a building and receipt of an application for an occupation
permit, examine the building, and may issue an occupation permit or refuse to
issue the occupation permit giving reasons in writing

5.1. Scrutiny and approval of building works

S52; Schedules 3 – Forms 9

i. Application for an Occupation Permit shall be as prescribed in Section 52 of the

Act
ii. The application shall be as prescribed in Form 9 of Schedule 3 of the regulations.

5.1.1. Receipt of Applications for Occupation Permits Compliance checks

Sections 44, 52; R6, 34 Schedule 2, Schedule 3 – Forms 9, Schedule 4

i. For purposes of these guidelines, only permitted building operations that have
been fully inspected shall be considered. Illegal and non-compliant building
operations shall be considered under a separate procedure.
ii. Applications are to be made on Form 9 – Part I or II - in schedule 3 of the
regulations, depending on the nature of occupation permit being sought;
whether temporary, partial or full.
iii. The professionals whose services were retained for the purpose of supervising
the construction of the building shall certify the application.
iv. The officer receiving application should confirm appropriateness of form used
and presence of all required documentation for the particular Occupation
Permit being sought.
v. Ensure the professionals authoring any documents possess a current practicing
certificate. The BCO shall contact the relevant Professional Registration Boards
for updated list of practicing professionals.
vi. Incomplete or improper applications shall be returned to the applicant on
presentation.

5.1.2. Registration of Application

i. BCs shall establish a building control records system to track their operations
and decisions for purposes of accountability.
i. For uniformity, the NBRB recommends the following format for application

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reference: Parish Postcode/Year/Application Number i.e OP/ccccc/yyyy/nnn

ii. Specific attention shall be given to reporting requirements by the NBRB as
prescribed in Form 5 – Part II of the Regulations

5.1.3. Application Scrutiny

S44; Reg. 6, 34, Schedule 3 Forms 9

i. The BCO shall ensure that the building was built in conformity to the approved
plans.
ii. The BCO needs inspect the building works, inspection book and “As Built
drawings” to ensure that they do not deviate significantly from the drawings
submitted at the Building Permit stage or, if they do, procedures (regarding
necessary approvals) and standards were followed.
iii. Ensure all required documents contain all information necessary to arrive at
proper and informed decisions regarding a particular application
iv. BCs are advised to establish a mechanism to ensure or confirm authenticity of
documents or clearances from other agencies that form part of an application

5.1.4. Building Committee Meeting

S31, Schedule 3; Reg. 23(5), Schedule 3 Form 3 & 5

i. Meetings shall, as a minimum, adhere to standards prescribed in Schedule 3 of

the Act.
ii. The meeting shall consider recommendations from the Building Control
Officer as prescribed in Form 3 of Schedule 3 of the Regulations.
iii. Proceedings shall be recorded as prescribed in Form 5 – Part I of Schedule 3 of
the Regulations
iv. Monthly reports shall be submitted to the National Building Review Board as
per Form 5 – Part II of Schedule 3 of the Regulations

5.1.5. Building Committee Outcome

S33(c), Schedule 3; Reg. 34, 35, 42, Schedule 3 Form 4 – Part II, 9

i. The Building Committee has fourteen days from receipt of an application to

either issue an occupation permit to the applicant or to refuse to issue the
occupation permit stating their reasons in writing.
ii. The Building Committee shall notify the Building Control Officer of its decision
as prescribed in Form 4 – Part II of Schedule 3 of the Regulations.
iii. The Occupation Permit shall be revoked in cases outlined in Regulation 35
iv. The Building Control Officer shall ensure that any instruction given by the
Building Committee in accordance with the Act are complied with.

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5.1.6. Assessment of Approval Fees

i. Approval Fees in consideration of the scrutiny of plans, permits and inspection
shall be assessed in accordance with Regulation 38, Schedule 4 of the Regulation
and the latest publication of fees in the Gazette.
ii. The BCO should ensure all billable elements of the proposed building
development are billed and an invoice prepared for the developer
iii. Invoice should indicate a breakdown of all elements billed for ease of
accountability
iv. The prescribed application fees shall be paid before the Occupation Permits is
issued.

5.2. Issuance of the occupation permit

S44; Regulations Schedule 3 - Form 10

i. The procedure for issuing building permits shall be as prescribed in Section 44

of the Act.
ii. In the case where the Building Committee approves an occupation permit
application, the Chairman shall sign the permit, the building plan and other
documents and return one endorsed copy to the applicant.
iii. The form of Occupation Permit is prescribed in Form 10 of Schedule 3 of the
Regulations.

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ANNEX 1: TYPES OF CERTIFICATE OF TITLE

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26
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27
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29
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ANNEX 2: COPY OF POWER OF ATTORNEY

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

THE REGISTRATION OF TITLES ACT, CAP. 230
POWER OF ATTORNEY

A POWER OF ATTORNEY granted on the 10th day of October 2015 by …… of P.o Box
7 Kampala (hereinafter called “the Land Owner”) to …….. of P.o Box 18 Kampala (hereinafter
called “the Attorney”).

WHEREAS :-
(a) The Land Owner is the registered proprietor of land comprised in Block 10
Plot 15, Nabutiiti, Wakiso District (hereinafter called “the Land”).
(b) By a Joint Venture Agreement dated the _______ day of __________
(hereinafter called “the Agreement”), the Attorney and the Land Owner have agreed to
pursue a joint venture to construct and complete a residential housing development on
the Land (hereinafter called “the Project”).
(c) Upon completion of the Project, the Attorney is entitled to certain strata
units therein (hereinafter called “the Units”).
(d) Under the terms of the Agreement, the Land Owner was entitled to and did
assign all his rights, title interest benefits advantages permits, licences and remedies in
under or arising out of the Agreement to the Attorney.
(e) Under the terms of the Agreement, the Land Owner has agreed to execute
such agreements or deeds as may be required to procure the development of the Project.
The Land Owner has also agreed to transfer the Units to the Attorney or such other
purchaser of the Units as the Attorney shall direct and pursuant thereto will enter into any
options, agreements, deeds or documents as shall be necessary to enable the Attorney to
market and sell all of the Units.

Now, the Land Owner HEREBY APPOINTS the Attorney and each of the authorised officers
of the Attorney for the time being to be the true and lawful attorney of the Land Owner
with full power to substitute, appoint and discharge from time to time one or more
attorneys in the name of the Land Owner and on the Land Owner’s behalf to execute or
do all or any of the following acts, deeds and things :-

1. To make and submit applications and plans to the appropriate government

departments, local authorities or other competent authorities and execute,
swear or affirm all documents, deeds, plans, instruments and declarations for the
purpose of obtaining or securing or renewing any planning permissions, building
plan approval, Temporary Occupation Permit or Certificate of Completion or any
other licences, approvals, permits or exemptions in connection with or incidental
to or arising from or necessary or advisable for the Project and for the construction,
erection or affixation of any building or fixture thereon (hereinafter called “the
Project Building”) or for any demolition or earth clearance works thereon or for

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the removal of any soil thereon or therefrom and generally for the construction or
earthworks affecting in connection with, related to or arising from the Project and
to collect, receive and retain such licences, approval, permits or exemptions and to
give a good receipt or acknowledgement therefor.

2. To enter upon and take possession of the Land and to develop the Land for the
Project and to carry out all necessary building, engineering and other operations
on the Land to construct and complete the Project Building in accordance with
the planning permission, building plan approval and any other licences, approvals
or permits issued by any relevant competent authorities.
3. To apply for, obtain or secure all necessary governmental approvals, permits or
licences for the subdivision (including subdivision) of the Project Building.
4. To apply to the Registrar of Titles for the issue of separate condominium Certificates
of Title to the Project Building and for this purpose to sign, execute and lodge the
necessary applications at the land office.
5. To take and accept delivery of the duplicate condominium Certificates of Title or
other documents of title as soon as the same are issued by the Registrar of Titles
and to give good receipts therefor.
6. To deal with all other relevant government authorities for the purpose of negotiating
and obtaining the approval of any sale and purchase agreements entered or to be
entered into by the Attorney with any sub-purchaser in respect of the sale of the
Units as may be required under the law.
7. To sign any Caveats and Withdrawal of Caveats relating to the Land or Project
Building as the Attorney shall think fit and to register the said Caveats and
Withdrawal of Caveats with the Land Office.
8. To warn off and prohibit and if necessary proceed against in due form of law all
trespassers on the Land or the Project Building or any part thereof and to take
appropriate steps whether by action or otherwise to abate all nuisances.
9. To receive and give effectual receipts and discharges for all or any moneys which
shall or may come to the hands of the Attorney by virtue of the powers herein
contained which receipts shall exonerate the person or persons or corporation
paying such moneys from seeing to the application thereof or being responsible
for the loss or misapplication thereof.
10. To enter into and to sign, seal, execute and perfect as the Land Owner’s act and deed
and to deliver any contract, option, Sale and Purchase Agreement, conveyance,
assignment, transfer, restriction, lease, deed, instrument or assurance whatsoever
in respect of the Units.
11. To appear before any Registrar or other official appointed under any Act and
register any deed, assurance, contract, transfer or other document relating to the
Project and sale of the Units and to pay such fees and to complete any forms and
make any declaration which may be necessary for the registration thereof.
12. For the Land Owner and in his name to accept service of any writ of summons,
summons plaint, motion, petition or other legal process of any kind in respect of
the Project and sale of the Units and to appear and on the Land Owner’s behalf to
represent in any court and before all judges, magistrates or other judicial quasi-
judicial or administrative officers whosoever as the Attorney shall think fit.

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13. In connection with any of the foregoing to appoint and engage any Advocate to
act for the Land Owner on his behalf for any of the purposes of these presents.

IT IS HEREBY FURTHER DECLARED as follows-

(1) This Power of Attorney shall be irrevocable until the completion of the sale and
purchase of the Units in accordance with the terms of the Agreement.
(2) The powers and authorities hereinbefore given to the Attorney shall not be deemed
to be limited to such transactions and matters as are hereinbefore expressly
mentioned by name but are intended to and shall in all cases extend to all other
matters or transactions not hereinbefore precisely mentioned or defined which
may by the Attorney be deemed to be requisite and expedient to be done or
performed for the purposes of these presents.

AND THE LAND OWNER HEREBY RATIFIES AND CONFIRMS AND PROMISES at all times
to allow, ratify and confirm all and whatsoever the Attorney shall lawfully do or cause to
be done by virtue hereof including anything which shall be done before revocation of this
Deed and the Land Owner declares that as against him and persons claiming under him,
anything which the Attorney shall lawfully do or cause to be done in pursuance of this
Deed after such revocation as aforesaid shall be valid and effectual in favour of any person
claiming the benefit thereof and acting in good faith who before the doing thereof shall
not have had express notice of such revocation and the Land Owner hereby agrees to
indemnify the Attorney against costs, charges, expenses and losses which the Attorney
may incur in the lawful execution of the powers hereby conferred upon the Attorney.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have appended their signature this _____ day of
________________2015.

NAME OF LAND OWNER NAME OF THE ATTORNEY

________________________ ________________________

I, …………………………………… an Advocate and Notary Public of the Republic of Uganda practising in

the Republic of Uganda hereby certify that on the _____day of ____________, the signature of
Katuramu Chrispus was duly affixed to the written instrument at Uganda in my presence.

Witness my hand

________________________.

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ANNEX 3: SAMPLE AGREEMENT IN RESPECT OF LAND ATTACHED

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ANNEX 4: COPY OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION/PROBATE

THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

LETTERS OF PROBATE
The Administration of Estates (Small Estates) (Special Provisions) (Probate and
Administration) Rules. /Succession Act

In the Magistrate’s Court of Nakawa, Magisterial Area at Nakawa Administration Cause

No. 15 of 2005 /High court of Uganda at …………..
I, ......................................., magistrate of ........................... Magisterial Area,................................. make
known that on this....... day of ............, .............., the last will of ..........................., deceased, late of
........................... a copy of which is annexed hereto, was proved and registered before me,
and that administration of the property and credits of the deceased, and in any way
concerning his or her will, was granted to ..........................., the executor named in the will,
he or she having undertaken to administer the property and credits, and to make a
full and true inventory of the property and credits to this court within six months from
the date of this grant, or within such further time as the court may from time to time
appoint, and also to render to this court a true account of the property and credits
within one year from the same date, or within such further time as the court may from
time to time appoint.

Dated at ...........................this ...................day of ............................, ........................

Sign & seal of court __________________________________

Magistrate/Judge

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THE REPUBLIC OF UGANDA

LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION.
The Administration of Estates (Small Estates) (Special Provisions) (Probate and
Administration) Rules. /Succession Act

In the Magistrate’s Court of ..........................., Magisterial Area at ........................... ( ...........................

Administration Cause No. ........................... of ...........................

I,… ........................... (name of judge or magistrate), magistrate of ........................... Magisterial

Area, make known that on this ........................... day of ..........................., ..........................., letters of
administration (with or without the will annexed) of the property and credits of ...........................,
of ..........................., deceased, are granted to ........................... the widow of the deceased ...........................
she having undertaken to administer the property and credits of the deceased, and to
make a full and true inventory of the property and credits to this court within six months
from the date of this grant or within such further time as the court may from time to time
appoint, and also to render to this court a true account of the property and credits within
one year from the same date, or within such further time as the court may from time to
time appoint. Dated at ........................... this ........................... day of ..........................., ............................

Signed and sealed…………………………………

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ANNEX 5: SCRUTINY OF ARCHITECTURAL PLANS

Title Block Check the title block for the following information:

S29, 33, 35 Architect: The title block should include the name of the Architect, their
registration number, his/her firm (if applicable), valid practicing certifi-
cate number, telephone and email contacts, the architect’s green stamp
signed and dated. These should be verified with the Architects Registra-
tion Board.
Reg. 5,9

All work should be designed by the Architect. Any plan with information
to the contrary/contact information of any person other purporting to
have designed or drawn the work other than the Architect should be
rejected.

Applicant: Name, Physical and Postal Address of the applicant. These

should be consistent with the details on the land title/proof of ownership
of land

Land Owner: Incase the applicant is not the land owner, include the
name, physical and postal address of the land owner and a statement of
legal relationship between applicant and land owner

Project Description: This should include the category of development,

Property Description consistent with the land title/proof of ownership,
jurisdiction to which application is being made, district.

Scales: Check that scales and annotation used conform to the minimum
prescribed by the relevant regulation and that information is legible.
(a) Location Plan: (i) These shall provide adequate information to enable location of
the site without need for further directions. Longitude and Lat-
itudes as determined by Google Maps/ Google Earth are a rec-
ommended method of locating property.
(ii) The surveyor’s report required by the regulations shall include
coordinates of the plot/land based on a system prescribed by
the Commissioner Surveys and Mapping.
(iii) Where house numbers have been allocated by the local author-
ity, these maybe used to facilitate location of the property.
(iv) The North Arrow shall be clearly visible. Key landmarks should
be indicated.
(b) Context or Block Plan (i) Should reflect all spatial features within and around the site that
place constraints on the site and/or influence the design of the
P 21 building
(ii) Such features include, existing and neighbouring buildings, ex-
tents of road reserves and other utility easements affecting the
site, location of connection points for utilities, etc. as applicable
to the building site
(iii) BCO to check that the site does not possess any characteris-
tics that make it a prohibited site and in case there are factors
that make the site risky for erection of a building that these have
been adequately mitigated
P 104 (iv) BCO/BC to check that the site does not possess any character-
istics that make it a prohibited site and in case there are factors
that make the site risky for erection of a building that these have
been adequately mitigated
(c) Site Plan (i) Site plans illustrate how the space available for development
on the site is to be utilised to provide a building that meets the
P 4 - 21, 60 Design Requirements in the Code, taking into account existing
constraints, and opportunities. A site plan shall therefore be
based on the information in the context plan.

38
 Implementation Guide

(ii) Check that subsoil drainage, control of buildings in swampy sites,

plot frontage, building line, plot coverage, space around and in
front of building, plot area, car parking, access to utilities, bound-
ary fencing, existing mature trees are in conformity to the Code
(iii) Base effective area of the plot excluding existing easements
affecting the land such as roads traversing the land, utility way
leaves/easements, etc. as well as encroachments by neighbour-
ing properties that have not been resolved. The net effective site
shall be of adequate size for the type and size of building devel-
opment.
P8, P12, Schedule 1 Table 1, P13- (iv) Site plans illustrate how the space available for development on
15, P114 the site is to be utilised to provide a building that meets the De-
sign Requirements in the Code, taking into account existing con-
straints, and opportunities. A site plan shall therefore be based
on the information in the context plan.
(v) The net effective site shall be of adequate size for the type and
size of building development.
(vi) The plan must show the outline of the buildings (extents) and
their shortest/perpendicular distance from each of the plot
boundaries as well as the distance between different buildings
on the same site to demonstrate compliance with setback and
separation provisions.
(vii) The plot coverage should also be appropriate.
(viii) Confirm that these conform to the Development permission
granted as well as the minimum code standards
P25, P26, P30, P32, P38 (ix) Look out for any encroachments into the setbacks and ensure
they are acceptable elements and do not exceed maximum ac-
ceptable protrusions
(x) The site plan shall show all existing mature trees and in case any
are to be cut, the rationale for cutting of any trees shall be clearly
explained and the location of new replacement trees to be plant-
P21
ed shown on the plan
(xi) Vehicular access and exit to the site as well as circulation within
the site shall be safe and practical and any ramps shall conform
to the minimum standards in the Code (SI 51)
(xii) Ensure that services and utilities for the building are proper-
P46 ly sited and that the building respects existing utility systems
through the site.
(xiii) Site plan/s shall indicate the layout of the boundary wall, fence
or enclosure (unless need for one is waived by the BC) relative to
the plot boundaries and other constraining features
(xiv) Wherever boundary walls are required by the BC, the design
shall conform to the minimum standards prescribed in the Code
P18, Schedule 1 Table 2 (or NPPSG)

P19

P20

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 Implementation Guide

(d) Floor Plans (i) Floor plans shall show the dimensions and purpose of every room or
part of the building
NBC: Part III, (ii) It is recommended that the BC requires the applicant to declare the
design population for the entire building development for ease of
P22 - 117
assessing adequacy of capacity of utilities/services to support the
expected population – which should be commensurate with the
floor space provided in the plans to avoid overcrowding.
(iii) Floor plans shall show the location and width of wall openings and
provide adequate information as to the type/purpose of the opening
to facilitate assessment of its appropriateness
P61, P91, P93, P94, P96, P97, (i) All rooms including auxiliary facilities shall conform to the minimum
P99, P102, P103, P106, P107 acceptable dimensions and floor area according to the occupancy
and population
(ii) The maximum population that can be accommodated in the build-
ing (design population) shall be derived from the floor area and oc-
Schedule 1 Table 4
cupancy(s) of the building development.
(iii) This capacity shall be the basis for sizing of related services such as
number of sanitary fittings and capacity of sewage treatment in-
stallations.
(iv) Dimensions of steps and stairs shall be appropriate to the occupan-
cy and design population of the building
(v) Note that the provision of escalators in any building does not waive
the requirement for stairs
P41-42, P63, P68 (vi) Appropriate banisters and/or guarding shall be provided for safety
at stairs, balconies and other areas where there are changes in level
(vii) Large, multi-storey and multi-occupancy buildings shall be protect-
ed from fire and its effects, designed and divided in accordance with
P48 the Code to maximise fire safety and be provided with appropriate
alternative means of escape in case of emergencies.
(viii) There shall be an adequate number of alternative egress means for
P43-45 a given building.
(ix) The location and distribution of such egress means as well as the
width of exits shall be in accordance with Code to ensure maximum
opportunity for safe and timely egress in emergencies
P40,P49, P52, P62, P65-66, P69, (x) Similarly, an adequate number of staircases or alternative means of
P72-85, P105, egress shall be provided commensurate with the height and capac-
ity of multi-storey buildings taking into account the capacity and
size at each floor
(xi) These shall be rationally distributed and provided with adequate
safety apparatus to mitigate fire spread while allowing for swift
egress.
(xii) Lifts systems shall be particularly protected against fire and its ef-
fects on occupants

P50-51

Accessibility standards Ensure that floor plans conform with accessibility standards in circula-
tion areas and sanitary facilities

40
 Implementation Guide

(e) Elevations (i) Elevations should be adequate in number to show all significant
sides of the building
(ii) Typical features shown in elevations are the walls, openings and
roof. Details of external finishes shall be indicated on the elevations
(f) Sections (i) Sections should be adequate in number and location to show all
the significant elements and limiting heights to facilitate judge-
ment of the appropriateness and performance of the design
(ii) Typical areas or features to be shown in sections include founda-
tions, walls, floors and beams, openings and the fixtures therein
staircases, ramps, atriums, etc.
(iii) Ensure that sections truly and accurately represent the area where
they are shown to have been cut on the floor plans.
P24, P28, P64, P70, P93(c), (iv) Check that heights of rooms meet the minimum standards for the
P103(2)(a)-(d) & (g) occupancy type
(v) Check headroom/clearances beneath beams, stairs and ramps to
P26, P39, P41, ensure adequacy as per code or for the purpose intended
(vi) Materials of the different building elements shall conform to Part
IV of the Code as applicable.
(vii) In case of second hand materials and scenarios were the suitability
of a material for purpose is unknown or in doubt, appropriate test
certificates shall be attached to the application

P119 - 120

(g) Door & Window Sched- Lighting and Ventilation

ules

P111 – P117
(i) Buildings shall be lighted and ventilated in accordance with P111-P117
of the Code as a minimum.
(ii) Use door and window schedules as well as information on the plans
to ascertain the adequacy of lighting and ventilation in various
spaces.
(iii) Ensure effective/net glazed area of minimum 10% floor area for win-
P113 (1) dows of habitable rooms and note the necessary 5% incremental
glazed area increment where overhangs greater than 900mm (e.g.
canopies and balconies) exist.
(iv) Ensure a total openable area (for ventilation) of minimum 5% floor
P113(2) area of the room served including the permanent ventilation open-
ings
(v) Look out for windows with space opposite them that does not meet
P114 effective lighting and ventilation requirements and ensure such ar-
eas are corrected on the plans
(vi) Check that all soil water fitment spaces are adequately lit and ven-
tilated
(vii) In addition, check that effective cross ventilation has been provided
P115 with the opening to room volume ratio as prescribed by Code
(viii) For public buildings, ensure the total unobstructed area of venti-
P116 lation openings divided by the occupancy capacity gives adequate
ventilation per occupant.
(ix) Ensure that the distribution of the openings in the walls and/or roof
will provide effective air flow for the occupants
P117(a)

P116(d), P117(2)(b)

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 Implementation Guide

(h) Drainage plans: Storm, (i) Drainage plans shall be prepared in conformity with the National
Foul and Waste Water Building (Standards for Mechanical Installations in Buildings) Code,
2019 and The Public Health (Drainage and Sanitation) Rules.
(ii) Typical drainage features to be shown in the site plan include man-
holes, soil and waste pipes, connection to sewer or septic tank and
soak pits
(iii) Drainage features to be shown on ground floor plans include man-
holes, gulley traps, soil pipes, soil vent pipes, rain water pipes
(i) Boundary Wall Plan and Boundary walls shall conform to Paragraphs 19 and 20 of the building
Details standards.

P 19, 20
Environmental Consider- (i) Where the BC has adopted sustainable design practices, various pro-
ations visions of Part V of the Code may be applied to buildings.
(ii) Attention is specifically drawn to mandatory provisions of this part
for application especially in assessing site plans, floor plans, sections
and other design information.

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 6A: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (REINFORCED CONCRETE)

Design & Loads

Basis of design (i) Based on ultimate & serviceability limit states

(ii) Based on most critical limit state and a check shall be
NBC, Part II, P 8(1), 8(2) conducted to ensure that the other limit states are not
exceeded.
Design approach (i) Idealization of the structural elements or the structure,
their connectivity and their load path;
NBC, Part II, Sec 11(1), 11(3) (ii) Design value shall be obtained by using the characteristic
or representative values in combination with partial and
other factors;
(iii) Maintain the same code; Either E.C or B.S
Partial safety factors The design values shall be derived in accordance with Sched-
ule 1.
NBC, Part II, Sec 12(10)
Self weight & Imposed Loads (i) General occupancy classes causing imposed loads shall
be clearly stated
NBC, Part III, Sec 13(4) (ii) The minimum imposed loads for the occupancies re-
ferred to above are specified in Schedule 2.
Wind Loads Loads checked as per Schedule 3 & 4

NBC, Part III, Sec 14

General Lateral loading For high rise structures i.e. 6+ more storeys, lateral loading de-
sign i.e. earthquake & wind must be considered
Other Design Loads Check for Impact or vibrations producing dynamic loading,
lifting or handling equipment such as forklifts, trolleys or
NBC, Part III, Sec 15 cranes operating on the floors of buildings or lateral and up-
lift forces due to retained soils or ground water inertia sway
forces in grandstands.
STRUCTURAL MATERIALS

Material types

NBC, Part III, Sec 16(8) Natural stone, clay bricks, structural timber, structural steel,
concrete blocks and plain or reinforced concrete form the
main construction materials for the structures commonly re-
ferred to as permanent.
Material strengths Design strength characteristics should be provided as these
influence the components to be designed for as well as the
NBC, Part III, Sec 16(9) sizes and types of building structures involved.
Reinforced Concrete

Materials design values The partial factors of safety for the various reinforced con-
crete ingredients shall be as specified in Part II of Schedule 7.
NBC, Part V, Sec 22(9)
Design properties & strength classes The design properties and strength classes for concrete,
including characteristic compressive strength of concrete for
NBC, Part V, Sec 22(10) the various grades are prescribed in Schedule 8.
Control of deformation

Final deflection Final deflection of all horizontal members shall not, in gener-
al, exceed the value

Deflection=Le/200;
NBC, Part V, Sec 23(2)
where,

Le = the effective span

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 Implementation Guide

For roof or floor construction supporting The deflection which occurs after the attachment of the
or attached to non-structural elements non-structural elements shall not exceed the value
including partitions and finishes likely to
be damaged by a large deflection Deflection=Le/350. Which should also be less than or equal
to 20mm
NBC, Part V, Sec 23(3)
where,Le = the effective span
calculated sag of a beam, slab or cantilever Shall not exceed span/250
subjected to quasi-permanent loads

NBC, Part V, Sec 23(5)

(a) Excavation details Geotechnical report for any deep (2m and more depth) exca-
vation is required.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(9)
(b) Foundation details

General: Depth

NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(2) Shall be at depths equal to or greater than 1.0 metre
General: Geotechnical engineering tests Geotechnical testing ensuring stability and safety of buildings
for; and a guide to the classification and bearing capacities of sub
soils is shown in Schedule 5.
1) 2-3 stories, in low lying areas.

2) Low rise large, developments and

3) Medium and High rise developments

NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(4)

General: Foundation types Foundation, footings or bases shall be strip footings, isolat-
ed pads, rafts, piles independently, in combination or in their
NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(5) modified forms
General: Reinforced concrete Grades C12/15 if unreinforced, or C20/25 at 28 days if reinforced.

NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(6)

General: Concrete cover Cover to all reinforcement shall not be less than 50 mm.

NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(7)

General: Allowable bearing capacity Forces transmitted to the soils does not exceed the bearing
capacities of the soils
NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(8)
General: Deep excavations Geotechnical investigations shall be carried out before any
deep excavation is undertaken to determine the soil charac-
(More than 2m) teristics in order to design the most appropriate foundation
and footing for the building.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 17(9)
Isolated base depths depths of axially loaded unreinforced footings shall be equal
to or greater than 300 mm and the projections from the col-
NBC, Part IV, Sec 18(1) umns or faces shall not be less than the foundation thickness.
Minimum Base sizing Minimum pad size should be 1.0x1.0x0.3M
Isolated base designed depths and rebars The depth of the pads shall be determined in accordance
with Part I of Schedule 5 from which also reinforcement per-
NBC, Part IV, Sec 18(2) centages shall be obtained.
Isolated base design shear checks Shears at faces of columns shall be checked using the proce-
dure indicated in Part II of Schedule 5.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 18(3)
Strip footing design Designed as a pad footing in the transverse direction and
considering a linear meter in the longitudinal direction.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 19
Raft foundation provision On soft natural ground or fill or on subsurface strata contain-
ing compressible soils.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 20(1)

44
 Implementation Guide

Raft foundation design The design of raft foundations shall be analogous to that of
inverted flat slabs, with the column loads known.
NBC, Part IV, Sec 20(2-8)
Pile foundation design (i) Based on static load tests, empirical or analytical calcula-
tion methods, the results of dynamic load tests
NBC, Part IV, Sec 21(1-7) (ii) Designed as either friction or end bearing piles.
(c) Columns details

Design classifications Short or slender

NBC, Part V, Sec 27(1)

Clear distance The clear distance between the end restraints of the col-
umns shall not exceed 60 x least dimension of the column
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(2) section.
Axial forces calculated on the assumption that beams and slabs trans-
mitting forces are simply supported.
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(3)
Short column design as described in Schedule 13.

NBC, Part V, Sec 27(5)

Slender column design Shall be designed as short columns but account shall be
taken of additional moments induced in the columns by
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(6) deflection and that deflection for rectangular or circular col-
umns under ultimate conditions shall be represented by an
equation specified in Part I of Schedule 13.
Additional moments shall be added to the initial moments to give the maximum
moments for the ultimate limit state of the columns.
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(7)
Symmetrically reinforced rectangular sec- shall be designed to withstand increased moments about
tions subjected to biaxial bending the axes given by the equations in Part II of Schedule 13.

NBC, Part V, Sec 27(8)

Rebar areas shall be equal or greater than 0.4% but not more than 6% of
gross concrete area. At laps total percentage shall not exceed
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(9) 10%.
Durability requirement shall be subjected to similar requirements as for reinforced
concrete walls, as provided in Part V of Schedule 14.
NBC, Part V, Sec 27(10)
Fire resistance requirement As per Table 2 in Schedule 13

NBC, Part V, Sec 27(11)

(d) Beam details

Effective depth ratios Shall be in accordance with Part I Schedule 12.

NBC, Part V, Sec 26(5)

Limiting total deflections shall be span/360 or 20 mm whichever is lesser for spans up
to 10 metres.
NBC, Part V, Sec 26(6)
Continuous beams, uniformly loaded with shall have design ultimate moments and shears represented
approximately equal spans by Part II of Schedule 12 except that the characteristic im-
posed loads shall not exceed the characteristic dead loads.
NBC, Part V, Sec 26(7)
Shear stress v = V/bd

NBC, Part V, Sec 26(8) where,

v = Design shear stress = 0.8 (fcu)1/2 or 5 N/mm2 if less

Minimum tension rebars As per code.

NBC, Part V, Sec 26(9)

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 Implementation Guide

Minimum Compression rebars As per code.

NBC, Part V, Sec 26(10)

Durability requirements Shall in addition to the requirements of (f) fulfil the durability
requirements given in Part V of Schedule 14.
NBC, Part V, Sec 26(13)
Sizing and fire resistance shall be sized to meet the fire resistance requirements given
in Part III of Schedule 12.
NBC, Part V, Sec 26(12)
(e) Beam-Column connections Beam re-bars to pass within the closed stirrup ring of the col-
umns.

Preferable to have wider columns than the beam widths to

minimize cranking of the beam re-bars.
(f) Slab details

Floor types Floors shall be reinforced concrete solid, ribbed (one way and
two way spanning e.g. waffle slabs) or hollow core block slabs
NBC, Part V, Sec 24(1)
Effective depth Shall not exceed the limits specified in Schedule 10.

NBC, Part V, Sec 25(2)

Solid concrete design Design as per the code requirements; effective depths, panel
orientations etc
NBC, Part V, Sec 25(1-5)
Flat slab design For the design of flat slabs with at least three spans in both
directions and the longest span or shortest span ratio not
NBC, Part V, Sec 25(6) exceeding 1.2, Table 3 of Schedule 11, shall be applied to ob-
tain the bending moments and shear forces in the slabs and
columns except that for flat slabs, which do not meet these
conditions, the bending moments shall be calculated by
frame analyses.
Ribbed slab characteristics Ribs shall be spaced a distance not more than 1.5 meters and
their depth less than 4 x width of ribs or 50 mm, whichever is
greater.
NBC, Part V, Sec 25(7-8)
Fire resistance requirement shall have adequate depth and reinforcement cover to pro-
vide fire resistance according to Table 5 of Schedule 11.
NBC, Part V, Sec 25(10)
(g) Staircases

NBC, Part V, Sec 24(2) Shall be considered as floor slabs subjected to imposed loads
applicable to the various occupancy classes as shown in
Schedule 2.
(h) Lift wells

Inherent stability Against overturning, slidding, etc

NBC, Part V, Sec 28(2)

height to thickness relationship of walls shall be specified in Part I of Schedule 14.
exposed to different wind pressures

NBC, Part V, Sec 28(3)

Design strength of walls strength of walls per unit length shall be obtained from the
formula specified in Part II of Schedule 14.
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(4)
Slenderness ratios of Plain concrete walls not more than 30, whether the walls are braced or unbraced.

NBC, Part V, Sec 28(5)

46
 Implementation Guide

Effective heights shall be 0.75 x the distance between lateral supports in

cases where lateral supports resist both rotations and lateral
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(6) movements, or equal to the distances between centres of
supports in case where lateral supports resist only lateral
movements.
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(7) For unbraced walls under similar end-conditions as in (d),
the corresponding effective heights shall be obtained by
multiplying the distances between centers of supports with
factors of 1.5 and 2.0 respectively.
Design load per unit length shall be assessed on the basis of linear distribution of loads
along the length of the wall, with no allowance for tensile
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(8) strength.
Shear wall design designed as vertical cantilevers that are continuous through-
out the height of the building.
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(11)
Fire resistance requirement In accordance to Part IV of Schedule 14.

NBC, Part V, Sec 28(13)

Durability requirement In accordance to Part V of Schedule 14

NBC, Part V, Sec 28(14)

Rebar areas vertical reinforcement in walls shall not be less than 0.4% or
more than 4% of the gross sections of concrete for any unit
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(15) length.
Vertical Bar spacing Limits shall not exceed 3 times the wall thickness or 400 mm
whichever is the lesser; and
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(16a)
Horizontal Bar spacing Limits the spacing between two adjacent horizontal bars shall not
be greater than 400 mm
NBC, Part V, Sec 28(16b)
(i) Roof details R.c slabs can be provided as roofs over structures and there-
fore the slab details in (f) above can apply.

A smooth gentle slope should be provided to ensure drain-

ing away of rain water to a centralized drain off point.
(j) Retaining structure details

Retaining

NBC, Part V, Sec 29(1) Soils, fluids or a combination of both

Types of retaining walls cantilevered wall, buttressed wall, counterfort wall, propped
cantilevered wall; and integrated wall.
NBC, Part V, Sec 29(2)
Form provided walls in (b) can take the form of gravity walls, masonry walls
or reinforced concrete walls depending on the main materi-
NBC, Part V, Sec 29(3) als used in their construction.
Design consideration (a) function and the consequences of failure,

NBC, Part V, Sec 29(6) (b) stability of the wall (bearing resistance and resistance
against rotation and sliding);

(c) economy (consider an economical cross section per unit

length of wall);

(d) safety;

(e) mechanism of transmitting compressive and shearing

loads to the foundation and the reaction of the foundation to
such loads; and

(f) secondary effects of the foundation behaviour on the

structure.

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 6B: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (STEEL)

Forms be either a single member or an assembly of a number of steel

sections connected together
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(1)
Design considerations To facilitate fabrication, erection and future maintenance of the
works.
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(2)
Profiles Structural steel to be hot or cold rolled sections of the following
profiles I-section, H-section, channel sections, hollow sections,
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(3) Z-sections, angles, flat bars, plates, or other approved profiles
Standards of conformity to conform to Uganda Standard US ISO 630-2: 2011, Structural
steels – Part 2.
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(4)
Steel grades General steel grades 43, 50 and 55 used for structural steelwork
and to have minimum corresponding design strength specified
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(5) in Part I of Schedule 15
Applications stanchions, beams and joists, trusses, purlins, side rails, portal
frames, staircases, floors, billboards, communication masts,
NBC, Part VI, Sec 30(6) pylons, towers and bridges.
(a) Excavation details Geotechnical report for any deep (2m and more depth) excava-
tion is required.
(b) Foundation details Column bases shall be of sufficient size, stiffness and strength
to transmit the axial load, bending moments and shear forces in
columns to their foundations or other support, without exceed-
ing the load carrying capacity of such supports.
The nominal bearing pressure between the base plate and the
support may be determined on the basis of a linear distribution
of pressure.
For concrete foundations, the bearing strength may be taken
as, 0.4fcu where fcu is the characteristic concrete strength at 28
days.
(c) Columns details
Design approach Columns designed as single integral members provided that
the main components are effectively restrained against buck-
NBC, Part VI, Sec 32(1-7) ling designed to safely transmit axial loads, bending moments
and shear to the foundations
Base plate thickness base plates loaded concentrically by I, H, Channel, Box or RHS
columns shall be given by the equation specified in Part III of
NBC, Part VI, Sec 32(8) Schedule 15.
Encased column consideration As per the code

NBC, Part VI, Sec 32(9-11)

(d) Beam details
Limiting deflection values shall be;

NBC, Part VI, Sec 31(2) (a) length/180, for cantilever beams,

(b) span/360, for beams carrying brittle finishes; and

(c) span/200, for other beams.

Shear forces shall be limited by the relationship specified in Part II of Sched-
ule 15.
NBC, Part VI, Sec 31(3)
Moment capacities shall be determined in Part II of Schedule 15.

NBC, Part VI, Sec 31(4)

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 Implementation Guide

(e) Connections and Joints

Design approach designed on the basis of a realistic assumption of the distribu-
tion of internal forces
NBC, Part VI, Sec 33(2)
Partial factor of safety shall be taken as;

NBC, Part VI, Sec 33(3) (a) for resistance of bolted connections gMb = 1.25

(b) resistance of riveted connections gMr = 1.25

(c) resistance of pin connections gMp = 1.25

(d) resistance of welded connections gMw = 1.25

(e) resistance of net sections at bolted holes gM2 = 1.25

Bolt and rivet connections As per the code

NBC, Part VI, Sec 34(1-8)

Pin connections As per the code

NBC, Part VI, Sec 35(1-7)

Splice connections As per the code

NBC, Part VI, Sec 36(1-8)

Welded connections As per the code

NBC, Part VI, Sec 37 to 49

Beam to column connections designed by the generally known and acceptable application
rules and practices by engineers ensuring the connection is
NBC, Part VI, Sec52(1 & 2) able to transfer the stresses from the beam to the column.
Column bases baseplate size determined either by effective area method or
other rational means.
NBC, Part VI, Sec56(1)
Connection of base plates welds or fasteners shall be provided to transmit all forces and
moments.
NBC, Part VI, Sec58(2-3)
Anchor bolts design approach designed to resist the effect of the design loads and shall
provide resistance to tension due to uplift forces, and bending
NBC, Part VI, Sec59(1) moments and shear, where appropriate
Anchoring anchor bolts shall either be anchored into the foundation by a hook or by
a washer plate or by some other appropriate load distribution
NBC, Part VI, Sec59(3) member embedded in the concrete.
(f) Slab details Steel structures can be provided with r.c slabs, steel framed
slabs/platforms (either mesh or full chequered plate grating) or
it can be with composite slabs (combination of concrete and
steel) supporting system is primarily steel beams.
(g) Staircases Fabricated as a quarter turn, half turn ( having flights) or spiral
staircase traversing a central steel element post from one level
to another.
Quarter or full turn staircase should have edge stringer beams
to receive fabricated treads and hand rails.
Spiral staircases should have a rigid central steel post element
strong enough to withstand induced stresses as people move
up and down the staircase.

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 Implementation Guide

(h) Lift wells Void provisions in the slabs should be made to allow provision of
a lift –
Size of void to be recommended by specialist lift suppliers and
installers.
Framed columns and beams at every level strong enough to
withstand stresses induced from the lift movements up and
down the structure.
(i) Roof details
Forms shall be constituted by any or combination of among others;
trusses, girders, rafters,
NBC, Part VI, Sec60(1)
Loading considered designed to sustain the dead loads, imposed loads and wind
loads.
NBC, Part VI, Sec60(2)
recommended minimum roof specified in Part V of Schedule 15.
slopes for the various structures and
cladding materials

NBC, Part VI, Sec60(7)

Structural steel trusses
Design approach designed to sustain axial, compression or tension forces or com-
binations of the loadings acting on the trusses.
NBC, Part VI, Sec61(1)
Structural steel truss spacing not exceeding 6.0m with double or mono pitches in accordance
with Part II Schedule 15.
NBC, Part VI, Sec61(2)
Purlins design (1) shall be designed for imposed loads not less than 0.50kN/
m2 and shall normally have spans L not exceeding 6.0 meters
NBC, Part VI, Sec 62 (1-3) center to center of the main supports.

(2) The dimension D, perpendicular to the planes of the clad-

ding, and the dimension B, parallel to planes of the cladding
shall be as specified in Part IV of Schedule 15 for different sec-
tions of purlins.

(3) The empirical values of purlins are specified in Part IV of

Schedule 15.
Composite beams shall be checked for resistance for lateral-torsional buckling,
shear buckling and longitudinal shear.
NBC, Part VI, Sec 63
Composite columns checked for the compression resistance, local buckling and
shear between the steel and the concrete.
NBC, Part VI, Sec 64
(j) Retaining structure details Steel vertical retaining sheets supported by steel raked mem-
bers or system.
Designed and checked for stability against sliding &structural
failure.

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 6C: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (WOOD)

Structural Timber
Type structural timber to be organic of either hard or soft wood

NBC, Part VII, Sec 65(1-3)

Applications for roof construction as; trusses, joists, purlins and battens,
floors, columns, walls, staircases and bridges
NBC, Part VII, Sec 65(7)
Considered strength classes SG4, SG8, SG12 and SG16 as per schedule 16. Strength classes
SG8 and SG12 are recommended for building construction.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 65(4-5)
Timber roof trusses
Spans not greater than 10.0m with single or double pitches in accor-
dance with Part V of Schedule 15.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 66(1)
NBC, Part VII, Sec 66(2) For spans exceeding 10.0m, the designer must carry out a de-
tailed structural analysis to determine the appropriate timber
sections and means of enhancing rigidity of the assembly, or
adopt more rigid materials such as structural steel.
Elaboration on spanning (a) 1.80 metres: for roofs with metal sheets;

NBC, Part VII, Sec 66(4) (b) 1.80 metres: for roofs with concrete/clay tiles, incorporating
common rafters spaced at 0.60 metres, centre to centre; and

(c) 2.10 metres: for roofs with metal tiles, incorporating common
rafters spaced at 0.70 metres, centre to centre.
Connetions shall be firmly secured with either nails, screws, bolts and/or
timber connectors.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 66(3)
Purlins provision shall have a minimum dimension of 75 x 50 mm and shall be
spaced at distances not exceeding 1.20 metres centre to centre.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 66(5)

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ANNEX 6D: SCRUTINY OF STRUCTURAL DRAWINGS (MASONRY)

Types unreinforced, reinforced or pre-stressed

NBC, Part VII, Sec 71(3)

Load bearing clay bricks shall conform to Uganda Standard US 102:1995, Standard speci-
fication for burnt clay bricks.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 72(1)
Load bearing concrete blocks shall be solid blocks with characteristic compressive strength
shown in Part VI of Schedule 16.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 73(1)
Natural stone as load bearing ma- Natural stone shall be classified as unreinforced masonry for
sonry the purpose of its structural use as a material in the building
construction.
NBC, Part VII, Sec 75(1)

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 7: SCRUTINY OF ELECTRICAL DRAWINGS

The Electrical Code must be read together with other docu-

ments which it makes cross-reference to including:
• The Building Control Act, 2013, Act No. 10 of 2013.
• The Electricity Act, 1999, Cap 145.
• National Information Technology Authority Act, 2009, Act
No. 4 of 2009.
• The Electricity (Safety Code) Regulations, 2003, S.I. No. 22 of
2003.

The circuit and layout design drawings should employ NBRB

approved electrical symbols and conventions. Any non-standard
symbols should be explained in the Key Electrical drawings shall
be signed off by a qualified electrical engineer.

P14, Schedule 3

Description of Electrical Loads For buildings in Category A, the electrical engineer shall submit
a “Description of Electrical Loads” This shall include

• Luminance requirements
• Utility power connection for single phase load, three
phase load, 11KV load
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) re-
quirements
• Electrically operated accessories (gates, pumps etc)
• Fire Protection Provisions
• Provision of ICT (PABX, LADN, CCTV)
(a) mains and standby power sup- This shall form part of the electrical circuit drawing
ply;
Evaluate aspects such as extending utility power to site, over-
4,5, 14, 34, 35, 39-49, Schedule 3 head utility line clearances, space for transformers and related
switchgear, citing of standby power equipment, green standby
electrical power (e.g. photovoltaic systems)
(b) power reticulation; This shall complete the electrical circuit drawing

look out for electrical ducts, lift power supplies, power rooms(
sizes and locations) ,transformer room, generator houses or
canopies ( taking into account noise pollution), earthing and
lighting protection,

Ratings of isolators and breakers, conduct sizes may be speci-

fied in the drawings
(c) lighting layout; This shall be shown on the architectural drawing and shall show
position of light fixtures and lighting switches

(d) small power layout; This shall be shown on the architectural drawing and shall show
the position of
- power socket outlets, distribution board, hot water
cylinders
- Communication sockets
- Security elements e.g. alarm keypad and intercom hand
sets
(e) fire protection; Power requirements shall be shown on the electrical circuit
drawing.

Positioning of the fire fighting elements including sprinklers

and smoke detectors will be shown on the fire protection layout
drawing

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 Implementation Guide

(f) private automatic branch ex- Power requirements shall be shown on the electrical circuit
change system (PABX); drawing.

Positioning of the communication sockets will be shown on the

small power layout drawing
(g) local area data network (struc- Power requirements shall be shown on the electrical circuit
tured cabling); drawing.

P68 Positioning of the data sockets will be shown on the small pow-
er layout drawing
(h) closed circuit television (CCTV). Power requirements shall be shown on the electrical circuit
drawing.

Positioning of the cameras and security room will be shown on

the small power layout drawing

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ANNEX 8: SCRUTINY OF MECHANICAL DRAWINGS

General requirements The drawings shall contain the following where applicable:
stairways, ramps, guards & lifts (esp. for raised buildings); light-
ing, ventilation (all types); heating, fire safety (esp. for public
buildings), plumbing, sanitary fitments & drainage works
R 12
(those with piped water), firefighting, water supply, reticula-
tion and storage

NBC, Part I, Sec 2

Building methods and materials Those proposed should be the ones approved by the BC, oth-
erwise permission has to be sought
R 16
(a) water supply; Water supply drawings shall include the position of the water
meter, water tank and pipe work (on site layout) and dispens-
NBC, Part II, Sec8 (2, 3); 9(1-2, 7-8); Sec ing points on floor plans.
10(3-5, 15, 17-18); 11(5, 7, 14); 16; 18(12)
• Check for the placement of water meters on the premises;
should be easily accessible
(b) water reticulation; • Any source of supply from underground sources shall be
approved by the Authority (proof shall be produced)
NBC, Part II, Sec 4-7; 17(12-13); 18-20 • Portable (drinking) & non-portable (not for drinking)
water supply to be separate. Portable (drinking) water
Table 5 (Schedule 1); Table 8-10 should not be from unsealed (those which are not cov-
(c) water storage; ered) tanks/cisterns
• Check that the proposed storage of water ensures uninter-
NBC, Part II, Sec 10(8, 10,32) rupted supply to the users
• There should be steady and stable supply; the proposed
storage capacity should be equivalent to the building oc-
cupancy
Table 3 (Schedule 1)
(d) ventilation and air conditioning; Ventilation and Air Conditioning drawings shall be prepared
for centralized systems and shall show movement of ducts and
NBC, Part IV, Sec89-93 centralized air conditioning unit.

• Air-conditioning or artificial ventilations systems should

be included on buildings especially public and proper ma-
terials to use be proposed.
• There should also be adequate duct openings, coverings
and lining in the designs
(e) drainage; Drainage plans shall show sanitary fitments, plumbing and
drainage works
NBC, Part III, Sec55-64
• Sanitary fitments should be in relation with planned oc-
cupancy

- Water closets, showers, urinals & la- • Septic tanks and cesspools should be properly situated on
trine fitments the premises, well-constructed with approvals from NWSC
(proof should be availed).
NBC, Part III, Sec 24-26 • Their capacity should be in line with the planned building
usage
Part I, Table 1 (Schedule 2)

- Septic tanks and cesspools

NBC, Part III, Sec79-84

(f) fire fighting. Fire fighting drawings shall show the fire fighting plumbing,
position of hydrants, tanks and pumps.
NBC, Part III, Sec118, 122
• Check designs - for safety of occupants and users in case
of fire

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 Implementation Guide

Lifts; Lift drawings shall show the lift shaft, lift control room, ma-
chine and pulley rooms
NBC, Part III, Sec145-151, 155-158
• All buildings 15 m or more above the ground shall have
lifts; lift installation and selection shall follow ISO 4190
parts 1 to 6. The lift construction shall comply with section
69 of the OSH Act, 2006
• Machine & pulley rooms for lifts - should be easily accessi-
ble, have adequate size and the door should be clear from
any obstacles

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 9: INSPECTION BOOKLET

BUILDING INSPECTION BOOKLET

June 2020

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 Implementation Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 PROJECT DETAILS...................................................................................................................................4
2.0 DESCRIPTION OF WORKS.................................................................................................................4
3.0 PROJECT TEAM..........................................................................................................................................4
3.1 DEVELOPERS TEAM...........................................................................................................................4
3.2 CONSULTANTS TEAM........................................................................................................................ 5
3.3 CONTRACTORS TEAM......................................................................................................................6
4.0 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE................................................................................................................ 7
4.1 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE FOR CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS........................... 7
4.2 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE FOR CLASS C BUILDINGS.......................................... 18
5.0 CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL WORKS.............................................................................................. 19
5.1 CODES OF PRACTICE AND STANDARDS......................................................................... 19
5.2 BUILDING ELEMENTS..................................................................................................................... 19
5.3 DESIGN REPORT................................................................................................................................. 19
5.4 CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL WORKS IN CLASS A, B AND C BUILDINGS....... 20
6.0 BUILDING SERVICES........................................................................................................................... 26
6.1 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS.............................................................................................. 26
6.1.1 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS.............. 26
6.1.2 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS C BUILDINGS................................ 29
6.2 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS.................................................................................................. 30
6.2.1 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A, B AND C BUILDINGS....... 30
6.3 ICT INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS............................................. 39
ANNEX 1: CLASSES OF BUILDINGS......................................................................................................... 42

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1.0 PROJECT DETAILS

1.1 Project Name

1.2 Developer

1.3 Lead Consultant/Project Manager

1.4 Contractor

1.5 Start Date of Project

1.6 Expected Completion Date of Project

1.7 Date of Approval of Building Plans

1.8 Is approval of building plans still valid? (Tick as Yes No

appropriate)

1.9 Building Permit No.

2.0 DESCRIPTION OF WORKS

(Give a brief description of the project and its purpose)
2.1 Class of Building (Refer to Annex 1). (Tick as ap- Class A
propriate)
Class B

Class C

2.2 Function/purpose of Building

2.3 Type of Construction New works

Renovations

Alterations

3.0 PROJECT TEAM

3.1 DEVELOPERS TEAM

DESIGNATION NAME SIGNATURE

a) Contract Manager

b) Project Manager

c) Owners Engineer

d) Clerk of Works

e) Other, please specify

_____________________________

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 Implementation Guide

3.2 CONSULTANTS TEAM

DESIGNATION NAME SIGNATURE

a) Project Manager

b) Architect

c) Civil and Structural Engineer

d) Mechanical Engineer

e) Electrical Engineer

f) ICT Specialist

g) Quantity Surveyor

h) Resident Engineer

i) Others, please specify

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

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 Implementation Guide

3.3 CONTRACTORS TEAM

DESIGNATION NAME SIGNATURE

a) Contract Manager

b) Foreman for Civil and Structural Works

c) Foreman for Mechanical Works

d) Foreman for Electrical Works

e) Foreman for ICT Works

f) Health and Safety Officer

g) Others, please specify

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

___________________________

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 Implementation Guide

4.0 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE

4.1 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE FOR CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1. 1 PRE-CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTATION (NBR)

a) Approved Plans
b) Building Permit
c) Demolition Permit
d) Hoarding Permit
e) Land Survey Report
f) Construction Drawings and Specifications
g) Supervision Agreements
h) NEMA Certificate
i) Traffic Impact Assessment
j) OSH Approval
k) ARB Project License Plate
l) Inspection Job Card
m) Site Instruction Book
n) Copies of relevant building codes
o) Contractor’s work programme
p) Relevant Insurance cover
q) Site Health and Safety Policy
r) Excavation Plan
s) Materials Test Certificates
t) Supervision Progress Reports
u) Site Meeting and Inspection Reports
v) Contractor’s Method Statement of Work
w) Unpriced Bills of Quantities

4.1.2 SITE OPERATIONS & PRELIMINARIES

4.1.2.1 Site Operations (Reg. 29, BCR, 2020)

a) Safe and secure fencing.

b) Operations confined within site boundaries.
c) Site signboard location, complete building team members contact de-
tails.

4.1.2.2 Demolition Work

a) BC approval.
b) Health and safety.
c) Public convenience.
d) Public safety.
e) Building conditions during demolition.
f) Demolition method suitability.

4.1.2.3 Hoardings to be Erected During Building Operations (P55, NBC Building

Standards)

a) Building Committee opinion.

b) Building Committee permission.

4.1.2.4 Special Hoarding (P56, NBC Building Standards)

a) Application to Building Committee for building works with barricade or

hoarding on part of street or public way.
b) Proper lighting of barricade/hoarding from sunset to sunrise.
c) Conformity with Building Committee requirements.
d) Removal as required by Building Committee.
e) Consent from Electricity company/ministry for site works nearer than 7
feet to any overhead electric line.

4.1.2.5 Advertisements on Hoardings (P58, NBC Building Standards)

a) Building Committee Permission

4.1.2.6 Temporary Site Buildings (Reg. 30, BCR, 2020)

a) Builders shed.
b) Location approved by BC.
c) Condition of sheds.
d) Notification by BC.
e) Security personnel accommodation compliance with public health, and
neighbours consent.

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.2.7 Sanitary facilities (Reg. 31, BCR, 2020)

a) Location approved by BC.

b) Site workers: facilities ratio.
c) Non-offensive placement.
d) Hygiene.
e) Removal after building operations.

4.1.3 SITING OF BUILDINGS-(P4, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.1 Siting of Buildings

a) Building Committee Approval

b) Sanitary Conditions
c) Outbuildings Nuisance
d) Removal/management of offensive landfill material

4.1.3.2 Drainage of Site-(P5, NBC Building Standards)

a) Site subsoil dampness

b) Drainage type used

4.1.3.3 Control of Buildings in Swampy Sites (P6, NBC Building Standards)

a) Subsoil water level

b) Use of pit latrine
c) Reinforcement of pit latrine walls

4.1.3.4 Plot frontage.(P7, NBC Building Standards)

a) Presence of access road

b) Road reserve width

4.1.3.5 Building Lines (P8, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.6 Access to Lanes and Passages (P9, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.7 Paving and Gates to Passages (P10, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.8 Paving and Draining of Yards (P11, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.9 Plot Coverage (P12, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.10 Building Setbacks (P13-P15, NBC Building Standards)

a) Front
b) Rear
c) Sides

4.1.3.11 Plot Area

4.1.3.12 Access to Utilities (P18, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.3.13 Boundary Fencing (P19-P20, NBC Building Standards)

a) Materials
b) Transparency
c) Sloping site measures
d) Razor wire height
e) Broken glass
f) Electric fencing

4.1.3.14 Landscaping and Parking (Reg. 15, BCR, 2020)

a) Site and neighbourhood aesthetics.

b) Screening against environmental hazards.
c) Hazardous substance or activity containment within building curtilage.
d) Use of indigenous flora and local materials.
e) Parking provided within site boundaries.
f) Number of car parking slots.

4.1.4 SUBSTRUCTURE

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.4.1 a) Type of foundation

b) Footings/bases sizes
c) Materials used:

• masonry
• steel reinforcement
• aaggregate
• cement
• sand
• DPM
• anti-termite treatment
• backfill material

d) Site safety
e) Basements:

• lighting
• ventilation
• drainage
• accessibility
• fire protection
• surface finishes
• site safety

4.1.5 SUPERSTRUCTURE

4.1.5.1 Floor Height

4.1.5.2 a) Materials used

• External Walls
• Internal walls

b) Floor slab construction

c) Room sizes
d) Natural lighting
e) Ventilation
f) Roofing
g) Flat roofs
h) Site safety

4.1.5.3 Canopies (P27-P37, NBC Building Standards)

a) Conformity with neighbouring buildings

i. Canopy height
ii. Pavement width beneath canopy
iii. Materials of pavement
iv. Canopy width
v. Canopy condition
vi. Conformity with existing canopies
vii. Canopy drainage
viii. Water discharge to pavement
ix. Canopy soffit sealing
x. Canopy loading
xi. Canopy fireproofing

4.1.5.4 Balconies and Bay Windows Overhanging Streets (P38-P39, NBC Building
Standards)
a) Doors and windows not to open outwards.

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.5.5 Stairs (P41-P42, NBC Building Standards)

a) Building height
b) Separate access from upper floors
c) Main staircase height (storeys)
d) Number of steps in flight
e) Landing length
f) Number of flights
g) Provision for turning
h) Width of door opening to landing
i) Variation in riser dimensions and tread goings
j) Tapered treads

• Distance from narrower end of tread

• Going
• Horizontal angle between successive risers
• Variation in goings and riser dimensions

k) Winders

• Type of dwelling unit

• Number of successive winders
• Turning angle of winders

l) Dwelling houses (single):

• Width
• Rise
• Tread
• Headroom
• Winders

m) Multiple dwellings and warehouses with less than 10 employees

• Width
• Rise
• Tread
• Headroom
• Winders

n) Warehouse buildings with more than 10 employees

• Width
• Rise
• Tread
• Headroom
• Winders

4.1.5.6 Bannisters of Balconies and Stairways (P43, NBC Building Standards)

a) Number of handrails
b) Position of handrails
c) Continuous outer handrail
d) Projection of handrails
e) Spacing of bannisters for stairways and balconies
f) Safe infilling below handrails
g) Balustrade height:

• above nosing at staircase rake and

• at landings.

h) Balustrade strength
i) Provision of central handrail where stairway exceeds 2.4 m width
j) Stairway ventilation
k) Stairway lighting
l) Stairway materials fire safety compliance

4.1.5.7 Pedestrian guarding for siting. P44 NBC Building Standards

a) Balcony edges
b) Floor gallery edges
c) Sunken area of building
d) Vehicle parks
Exceptions: Ramps used for vehicle access and loading bays.

4.1.5.8 Vehicle Barriers (P45, NBC Building Standards NBS)

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.5.9 Ramps (P46, NBC Building Standards)

a) Vehicle ramp

• Gradient
• Width
• Distance from street boundary

b) Pedestrian ramp

• Gradient
• Width

c) Pedestrians and vehicle ramp

• Walkway width
• Walkway kerb height

4.1.5.10 Staircases in Buildings Intended for Separate Occupation (P47, NBC Build-
ing Standards)

• Lighting at storey above ground

• Ventilation at highest point

4.1.5.11 Escalators to be in Addition to Staircases

a) As means of emergency exit

Means of escape:
a) Height of building (storeys /m)

4.1.5.12 Enclosure and Position of Lifts and Motor Rooms (P50, NBC Building Stan-
dards)
a) Motor room conditions.
b) Lift shaft smoke outlet position, area and fitting materials.
c) Motor room ventilation.
d) Domestic and public buildings lift enclosure materials.

4.1.5.13 Lifts (P51, NBC Building Standards)

a) Compliance with OSH Act, 2006.
b) Clear space between lift shaft bottom and lowest point of cage floor.
c) Lift shaft pit bottom conditions.
d) Lift pit floor drainage.
e) Counterbalance safety provisions.
f) Lift Inspections Report.

4.1.6 PRECAUTIONS AGAINST FIRE (P52, NBC Building Standards)

a) Construction materials
b) Number of fire escapes
c) Secondary means of access
d) Fire resisting floors
e) Fire resisting stairs and staircases
f) Fire resisting passages
g) Placement of refuse bins
h) Refuse bin site floor finish and walling
i) Roofing and Draining of refuse bin sites

4.1.7 SCAFFOLDING (P54, NBC Building Standards)

a) Platforms and gangways scaffolding width and height.
b) Toe boards and guard rails on open sides.
c) Building committee assessment of damage risk to persons and property.
d) Scaffolding above 6m height constructed in approved steel.

4.1.8 ASSEMBLY BUILDINGS

4.1.8.1 Arrangements (P59, NBC Building Standards)

a) Occupancy classification type.
b) Position of main floor in relation to level of exit street.

4.1.8.2 Sites Safety (P60, NBC Building Standards)

a) Building Committee opinion.
b) Protection against fire from adjacent properties.
c) Building Committee prohibition on use of defective structure.

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.8.3 Area per Person (P61, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.4 Fire Resistance Ratings (P62, NBC Building Standards)

a) Floors
b) Walls
c) Stairs
d) Ceilings
e) Doors
f) Windows

4.1.8.5 Floors and Slope of Floors (P63, NBC Building Standards)

a) Slope of floors
b) Passage and Aisle steps dimensions

4.1.8.6 Height of Galleries (P64, NBC Building Standards)

a) Clear height of first floor or balcony extending over pit, stalls or area.
b) Height between floor of the highest [part of the gallery and lowest part of
the ceiling over the part.

4.1.8.7 Width of Aisles P65 NBC Building Standards

4.1.8.8 Gangway Around Auditorium (P66, NBC Building Standards NBS)

4.1.8.9 Pit Floor (P67, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.10 Stairs in Assembly Buildings (P68, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.11 Planning of Lobbies (P69, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.12 Stage Space (P70, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.13 Ventilation (P71, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.8.14 Doors (P72-P75, NBC Building Standards)

a) Swinging of doors.
b) Panic bolts and locks on doors.
c) Door fastening prohibited.
d) Outlet doors.

4.1.8.15 Exits (P76-P82, NBC Building Standards)

a) Notice on Exit Doors.
b) Separate exits for each level.
c) Width of exits.
d) Number of exits.
e) Exits to be spaced apart.
f) Separate and independent exits.

4.1.8.16 Lighting (P83, NBC Building Standards)

Efficient lighting all the time during whole period of use for:

a) entrance halls,
b) passages,
c) staircases,
d) gangways and
e) other means of approach to public room or building.

4.1.8.17 Artificial Lighting (P84, NBC Building Standards)

a) Ensure no darkness in building in the event of accident or power break-

down.
b) Two separate systems of electric lighting from two separate supply
sources.
c) All exit lamps remain lit during building use by public.

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.8.18 Means of Warning and Escape (P85, NBC Building Standards)

a) Early warnings of fire.

b) Appropriate means of escape from building to safety place outside the
building.
c) Safety place is safely and effectively used at all times.

4.1.8.19 Internal Fire Spread (P85, NBC Building Standards)

a) Internal wall lining adequately resists fire spread over its surface(Fire Rat-
ing).
b) If ignited internal lining has reasonable fire growth rate or heat release
rate.

4.1.8.20 Temporary Proscenia (P86, NBC Building Standards)

a) Building Committee Permission required.

b) Ensure performers safety.
c) Ensure audience safety.
d) Fire resistance treatment of scenery curtain and temporary proscenium.

4.1.8.21 Cinematograph Chambers

a) Cinematograph equipment (P87, NBC Building Standards)

b) Cinematograph room construction

4.1.8.22 Owner to cover costs of alterations or additions required by notice issued un-
der the Building Code P88, NBS NBC Building Standards.

4.1.9 BUSINESS OR INDUSTRIAL BUILDINGS

4.1.9.1 Offices in Shops (P89, NBC Building Standards)

a) Lighting for shop part used as office to be according to Code 111 & 117.
b) Exemptions by Building Committee.

4.1.9.2 Offices in Industrial Buildings (P90, NBC Building Standards)

a) Lighting for factory or workshop part used as an office to be as per Code

82 and 83.
b) Building Committee exemption on parts considered to be adequately lit
and ventilated.

4.1.9.3 Size of Rooms in Industrial Buildings (P91, NBC Building Standards)

a) Floor area according to Table 4, Schedule 1.

Further Requirements (P92, NBC Building Standards)

a) Provided more than 20 persons work in shops and offices at any one
time, provisions for public buildings and assembly buildings design ap-
ply as stated in Codes 59, 60 and 63-66 to the shops and office buildings.

4.1.9.4 Division of a Large Multipurpose Building (P40, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.10 SCHOOL BUILDINGS

4.1.10.1 Classrooms (P93, NBC Building Standards)

a) Classroom dimensions to suit number of learners intended for the room.

b) 1.1 m minimum aisle width.
c) 3 m minimum mean height.
d) Measurements as per design population standards in Schedule 1, Table 4.

4.1.10.2 Halls (P94, NBC Building Standards)

Minimum 0.5 m2 floor space per learner.

4.1.10.3 Lighting and Ventilation (P95, NBC Building Standards)

a) Classroom lighting in accordance with Code 112 &113.

b) Classroom ventilation in accordance with code 115 & 116.

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.10.4 Accommodation for Boarders (P96, NBC Building Standards)

a) Suitable and sufficient dormitories in addition to classrooms for every

boarding school.
b) Separate dormitories for each gender.
c) Minimum floor area per learner as per Schedule 1, Table 4 considering
2.78 m2 for learners under 12 years of age.
d) 3.7 m2 for each learner where double decker beds are used.
e) Beds placed at least 300 mm from dormitory walls.
f) Distance between adjacent beds not less than 1100 mm.
g) Unobstructed passage of at least 1100 mm in dormitory with two or more
lines of beds.
h) Bed fabrication to ease regular disinfestation.
i) Dormitory lighting in accordance with Code 111 & 112.
j) Dormitories with secure, sufficient and accessible latrines and showers.

4.1.10.5 Accommodation for Meals (P97, NBC Building Standards)

a) Separate accommodation required for meals.

b) Dining area not to communicate with dormitory except via properly ven-
tilated passage.
c) 0.75 m2 area per learner using dining.

4.1.10.6 Kitchens and Water Supply (P98, NBC Building Standards)

Kitchen required for every boarding establishment.

a) Suitable size, type and construction.

b) Sufficient water supply for washing and bathing of users.
c) Sufficient supply of wholesome drinking water always.
d) Accessible, uncontaminated water supply where no piped water supply
exists.

4.1.10.7 Latrine Accommodation (P99, NBC Building Standards)

Proper and sufficient latrine units mandatory for all schools.

a) Latrine to learner ratios according to types.

a. WCs, 1:15 persons for boarding facilities or 1:25.
b. WCs for non-boarding facilities up to 100 persons, 1:40 for above 100
persons.
c. Pail closets:
i. 1:12 for boarding facilities and
ii. 1:12 for non-boarding up to 48 persons. 1: 24 for above 48 persons.
d. Urinals:
i. 50% reduction in male latrines where latrines are provided,
ii. 1 stall/basin:25 males or
iii. 560 mm channel length for every 25 males.
b) Schools with both boarding and non-boarding learners.
c) Separate latrines for learners of each gender.
d) Separate latrines for staff, for each gender.
e) Privacy and effective screening of latrines of each gender from the other.
f) 18 m maximum distance of dormitory from latrine.
g) 45 m maximum distance of classroom from latrine.

4.1.10.8 Floors (P100, NBC Building Standards)

Impervious floors with every part regularly cleanable.

4.1.10.9 Playgrounds (P101, NBC Building Standards)

Open space of sufficient size required and where possible adjacent to every
school for playground use by learners.

4.1.11 RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS

4.1.11.1 Size of Rooms Intended to be Used as Dwellings (P102, NBC Building Stan-
dards)

a) Superficial area of habitable room at least 9 m2.

b) Area per person at least 3.7 m2, except:
i. at least 7.4 m2 for additional habitable rooms and
ii. At least 3.7 m2 for ironing rooms.

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.11.2 Provision of Kitchens, Stores and Bathrooms for each Dwelling (P103, NBC
Building Standards)

a) Kitchen area not less than 7.4 m2 and height of 2.6 m.

b) Hotel kitchen meets size parameters in Schedule 1.
c) Outside kitchen at least 2.3 m2 and 2.6 m high.
d) Approved smoke extraction.
e) Window sizes as per Code 111 & 113.
f) Refuse disposal and drainage means.
g) Size of cupboard more than 2.8 m3 to be provided lighting.
h) Bathroom size at least 1.5 m2 and 2.4 m mean height and not less than
2.1 m height.
i) Sufficient bathroom lighting as per Code 111 & 113.

4.1.11.3 Position of Blocks of Flats and Hotels (P104, NBC Building Standards)

a) Plots should be approved by Building Committee where no zoning exists.

b) Number of blocks of flats permitted on the plot.
c) Effect of residential plot development on adjoining residential plots.

4.1.11.4 Construction of Buildings of More than Two Storeys (P105, NBC Building
Standards NBS)

a) Fire escapes required.

b) Access to building for public services required.
c) Drainage of waste, foul and storm water required.
d) Additional escape means and refuse disposal via secondary staircase
within 27.4 m from entrances.
e) Location of central sites for refuse containers.
f) Construction of refuse sites with impervious floor, approved roofing,
drainage and fly proofing.

4.1.11.5 Kitchens in Flats (P106, NBC Building Standards)

Code 103 (2)(a) and (e) not applicable to communal dining and catering.

4.1.11.6 Facilities to be Provided for all Residential Rental Premises Tenants (P107,
NBC Building Standards)

a) Latrines (refer to Mechanical Installation standards).

b) Lighting in all common circulation areas.
c) Water supply.
d) Food storage space.
e) Kitchen and ablution facilities.
f) Waste and foul water drainage.

4.1.12 LIGHTING AND VENTILATION

4.1.12.1 Provision of Windows (P111, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.2 Area of Windows (P113, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.3 Space Opposite Windows (P114, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.4 Window and Ventilation Requirements for Soilwater Fitting Apartments

(P115, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.5 Ventilation of Rooms (P116, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.6 Ventilation of Public Buildings (P117, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.12.7 Warehouse Lighting and Ventilation (P112, NBC Building Standards NBS)

4.1.13 BUILDING MATERIALS

4.1.13.1 General Requirements (P118, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.2 Testing (P119, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.3 Second-hand Material (P120, NBC Building Standards)

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.13.4 Other Standards (P121, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.5 Water Quality (P122, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.6 Sand or Fine Aggregate (P123, NBC Building Standards)

a) Quality
b) Size
c) Material source

4.1.13.7 Coarse Aggregate (P124, NBC Building Standards)

a) Quality
b) Size

4.1.13.8 Cement (P125, NBS)

Compliance with UNBS Standards.

4.1.13.9 Bricks and Blocks (P126, NBC Building Standards)

a) Hardness
b) Durability
c) Combustibility
d) Maturity
e) Crushing Resistance
f) Size, Shape and Surface

4.1.13.10 Stresses in Brick and Block Walling (P127, NBC Building Standards)

a) Bearing Pressure
b) Special materials test results

4.1.13.11 Mortar (P128, NBC Building Standards)

a) Mix ratio.
b) Variational mix ratio authorised by competent person and approved by
Building Committee.

4.1.13.12 Concrete (P129, NBC Building Standards)

a) Component materials.
b) Mix ratios.
c) Presence of ash, slag, clinker or similar material in concrete.
d) Coke breeze not authorised as ingredient.
e) Results of Bearing Pressures on load bearing concrete.

4.1.13.13 Slenderness Ratio of Pier (P130, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.14 Stresses in Wrought and Cast Iron (P131, NBC Building Standards)

4.1.13.15 Timber (P132-P136, NBS)

a) Quality
b) Strength
c) Free from defects
d) Well seasoned
e) Protection from insects and vermin
f) Stress Test Results
g) Stress Test Results on timber columns
h) Special timber Stress Test Results
i) Timber column lengths not to exceed thirty times its diameter

4.1.13.16 Damp-Proof and Anti-proof Courses (P137, NBC Building Standards)

a) Durability
b) Impervious to moisture
c) Ability to withstand wall loads and prevent wall movement
d) DPM Material
e) DPM thickness

4.1.14 INSPECTION OF BUILDING WORKS STAGES

71
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

Reg. 27, 1-8, BCR, 2020

a) BC Notification of work commencement

• 14 days prior for demolitions

• 7 days prior for new works
• 7 days prior for maintenance works

b) Signed BC Notifications
c) Approved drawings copy on site
d) Building Permit copy
e) Request for inspection (Form 7)
f) Inspection notice by BC

4.1.15 DESIGN AND PLANNING OF BUILDINGS

4.1.15.1 BUILDING OPERATIONS BY MINISTRIES, DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES

OF GOVERNEMNT

4.1.15.1.1 Design requirement (generally)

a) Functionality

• User need suitability

• Activities technical requirements
• Spatial requirements
• Service requirements
• Design meets functional goals

b) Sustainability

• Environmental issues
• Resilience to natural disasters

c) Economy

• Considers whole life cycle cost

• Operation costs
• Maintenance costs
• Life span
• Return on Investment

d) Performance Requirements

• Energy efficiency
• Durability
• Life-cycle performance
• Occupant comfort
• Occupant safety

e) Safety

• Risk foresight
• Risk protection
• Health measures
• Safety measures
• Security measures

Fire protection

4.1.15.1.2 Deviation from Approved Plan (Reg. 39, BCR. 2020)

• Application for deviation

• Plot coverage
• Building height
• Building depth
• Structural system
• Other dimensions (specify)
• Change in usage

Non-compliant building operations

72
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
QUERY
(Use codes above. Pro-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION RECTIFIED
vide comment where
(Y/N)
appropriate)

4.1.15.1.3 Occupation Permit Application (Reg. 34, BCR, 2020)

• As built drawings
• Certificates of service installations fitness

Certificate of practical completion

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4.2 BUILDING ARCHITECTURE FOR CLASS C BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not N/V Not
Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES
(Use codes above. Pro- QUERY REC-
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION
vide comment where TIFIED (Y/N)
appropriate)

4.2. 1 Temporary Buildings (P53, NBC Building Standards)

a) Conditions of authorisation
b) Period of authorisation required
c) Site plan
d) Application to erect temporary building.

i. Layout drawings clearly indicating structure dimensions, plot bound-

ary lines, roads, sidewalks, distances to adjacent structures, public ac-
cess route building location, room locations and names.
ii. Size.
iii. Form.
iv. Construction materials and their fire ratings.
v. Proposed use of temporary buildings.
vi. Lighting.
vii. Ventilation.
viii. Fire safety measures.
ix. Structural details.
x. Authorisation: Initial authorisation of 1 year.
xi. Approval of extension.

e) Certificate of Satisfactory Structural Condition

Notes:
BCR - Building Control Regulations
NBC - National Building Code
Reg. - Regulation

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 Implementation Guide

5.0 CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL WORKS

5.1 CODES OF PRACTICE AND STANDARDS

In the design and supervision of the buildings, it is incumbent on the professional to state
the approved codes of practice and standards he used. For purpose of this booklet, he is
expected to use:
• The National Building Code 2019,
• Building Control Regulations 2020,
• The Standards by the Uganda National Bureau of Standards marked as US or US-
ISO and other marks and
• any approved and relevant documents in practice, such as the British Standards.

5.2 BUILDING ELEMENTS

It is incumbent on the professional to specify the elements designed for, such as rein-
forced concrete; steel and other metals; masonry and clay products; timbers, composite
materials, plastics and any others.

The design and supervision must include all structural elements which must be added in
case they are not indicated in this booklet.

5.3 DESIGN REPORT

It is incumbent on the professional to prepare a design report which must include desir-
able aspects of professional structural design that ensures strength, safety and econo-
my as below.

a) Assurance that the building:

i) achieves an acceptable level of probability that it shall perform satisfactorily
during its intended life,
ii) sustains all loads and deformations of normal construction and use and
iii) affords adequate durability and resistance to the effects of misuse and fire.
b) The design ensures that due regard is given to economy in design, structural safety,
serviceability and durability.
c) The design ensures that the building is designed and constructed in such a way that
it is not unreasonably susceptible to damage by effects of fire, explosion, im-
pact or consequences of human error.
d) The design ensures there is use of suitable materials. It should indicate need for qual-
ity control and good supervision, which are complementary to design calculations to
produce safe, serviceable and durable structures.
e) The design should provide specifications, standards for materials, production, work-
manship, maintenance aspects to be complied with and ensure that the design ob-
jectives are realised.
f) The report should show how the design has assured that potential damage is avoided
by appropriate choice of one or more of the following:
i) avoiding, eliminating or reducing the hazards to which the structure can be sub-

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 Implementation Guide

jected,
ii) selecting a structural form which has low sensitivity to hazards considered,
iii) selecting a structural form and design that can survive adequately the acciden-
tal removal of an individual member or a limited part of the structure, or the
occurrence of acceptable localised damage,
iv) avoiding, as far as possible, structural systems that can collapse without warning
and
v) tying the structural members together.
f) The design report shall show that the structural design is/was based on the most
critical limit state (either the ultimate limit state or the serviceability limit state)
and a check should be included to show that the other limit state was not exceeded.
g) The ultimate limit states used shall show how the following have been achieved:
i) safety of the people and
ii) safety of the structure and its contents.
h) The ultimate limit state design shall show how the building/structure will
withstand:
i) loss of equilibrium of the structure or any part of it, considered as a rigid body,

ii) failure by excessive deformation, transformation of the structure or any part of it,
including supports and foundations,
iii) failure caused by fatigue and other time dependent effects and
iv) failure caused by the effect of earthquakes, segmental and overall robustness of
the structure.
i) The serviceability limit states shall show how the building/structure will as-
sure:
i) the functioning of the structure or structural members under normal use,
ii) the comfort of people and
iii) the appearance of the construction works.
j) The serviceability limit states shall show how the building/structure will
withstand/resist:
i) deformation and displacements which affect the appearance or effective use of
the structure or cause damage to finishes or non-structural elements,
ii) vibrations which cause discomfort to people, damage to the structure or to the
materials it supports, or which limit its functional effectiveness,
iii) damage, including cracking, which is likely to affect appearance, durability or
the function of the structure adversely,
iv) observable damage caused by fatigue and other time dependent effects and
v) damage caused by earthquakes.
k) The design report shall show the design philosophy that includes or fulfills:
i) idealisation of the structural elements or the structure, their connectivity and
their load path,
ii) boundary conditions that are to be imposed onto the structure and to the indi-
vidual structural elements,
iii) material properties,
iv) weather conditions,

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v) probability of change of use of the structure,

vi) determining which method of analysis or analysis software is suitable,
vii) determining which method of design or design checks to adopt,
viii) method of construction likely to be used and
ix) the temporary works and quality of workmanship to be used.
l) The design report shall show how the limit state design was carried out by:
i) setting up structural and load models for relevant ultimate and serviceability
limit states that should consider the various design situations and load cases
and
ii) verifying that the limit states are not exceeded when design values for actions,
material properties and geometrical data are used in the models.
m) The design report shall show how a design value was obtained:
i) by using the characteristic or representative values in combination with partial
and other factors or
ii) in exceptional cases, directly except that the values obtained directly should
correspond to at least the same degree of reliability for the various limit states.

5.4 CIVIL AND STRUCTURAL WORKS IN CLASS A, B AND C BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not
Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

5.4.1 PRECONSTRUCTION DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

5.4.1.1 a) Approved civil and structural engineering plans, drawings and dia-
grams Geotechnical Survey Report
b) Topological Survey Report
c) Structural design report with calculations to prove adequate
strength, safety and economy in all the structural elements
d) Excavation Plan where applicable
e) Detailed methodology for temporary support, where needed
f) Specifications covering all civil and structural works

5.4.2 CIVIL OR STRUCTURAL PLANS

5.4.2.1 Civil or Structural engineering plans, drawings and diagrams shall contain
the following, where applicable

a) Excavation details
b) Foundation details
c) Column details
d) Beam details
e) Beam-Column connections
f) Slab details
g) Staircases
h) Ramps
i) Lift wells
j) Roof details
k) Retaining structural details

5.4.2.2 Civil or Structural engineering plans, drawings and diagrams shall be drawn
to suitable scales but not smaller than 1:100, 1:50, 1:20, 1:5, 1:2 or 1:1

5.4.2.3 Correct interpretation of Civil or Structural engineering plans, drawings and

diagrams

5.4.2.4 Works executed in accordance with the designed and approved plans

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

5.4.3 STRUCTURAL SYSTEM OF THE BUILDING

5.4.3.1 Appropriate structural forms, systems and materials used in different parts
of the building e.g. reinforced concrete, pre-stressed concrete, steel, masonry
and timber etc

5.4.3.2 Identification of critical structural elements without redundancies for exam-

ple long span structures

5.4.4 LOADING ON THE STRUCTURE

a) Appropriate loading conditions, indicating the usage at different

parts of the building and identifying any misuse, abuse or devia-
tion from intended use.
b) Is the loading condition is compatible with the intended purpose
of the structure.
c) Does the misuse, abuse or deviation from intended use given rise
to excessive loading which can adversely affect the building struc-
ture?

5.4.5 CONSTRUCTION TECHONOLOGY

a) Acceptable Construction methods employed

b) Adequate timelines within which to execute proposed works
c) Timely execution of already embarked on works

5.4.6 CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

a) Materials on site are in accordance with the standards and specifi-

cations used in design.
b) Material testing and approvals available on site for example Labo-
ratory concrete cube test for compressive strength after 7 days, 14
days and 28 days and laboratory test for steel, timber or any other
materials for the relevant parameters as per code of practice.
c) Proper storage of materials to minimize deterioration
d) Other Quality control measures in place.

5.4.7 EXCAVATIONS (Reg. 14, BCR, 2020)

a) Permit for works exceeding 2 m depth below ground.

b) Special Geotechnical conditions handled by engineering design.
c) Foundation excavation design.
d) Excavation on solid rock
e) Safety of nearby buildings
f) Implementation of NEMA Conditions

5.4.8 UNSTABLE SOILS OR SLOPES (Reg. 16, BCR, 2020)

a) Notification of Building Committee.

b) Observed conditions on site or environs likely to cause unstable soils
c) Measures to contain differential movements and other effects detri-
mental to building.

5.4.9 MEASURES FOR STABILITY OF SITE (Reg. 32, BCR, 2020)

a) Develper’s measures to maintain site stability.

b) Structural temporal works approval prior to excavation commencement.
c) Adequate temporary support system for the excavation
d) Precautionary measures specified by BC implemented
e) Open excavations maintained in safe condition.
f) Effect of building works on neighboring properties managed evidenced
by presence of a dilapidation report to record the existing condition of
structures prior to your construction works commencing.

5.4.10 SIGNS OF STRCUTURAL DEFECTS AND DETERIORTATION

a) Building tilt/ settlement

b) Structural deformation
c) Major structural defects (e.g. structural cracks, decayed timber
member)
d) Minor structural defects
e) Non-structural defects
f) Recommended remedial actions proposed and implemented

5.4.11 ADDITIONS OR ALTERATIONS TO THE STRUCTURE

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

a) Presence of additions or alterations

b) Impact of the additions or alterations to the structure
c) Approvals for the additions or alterations obtained in accordance Build-
ing Regulation 39

5.4.12 TEMPORARY SUPPORT SYSTEMS

a) Adequate temporary support systems for the structural elements

such as excavations, slabs etc provided
b) Stability of the structural supports from effects of agents of weath-
ering, construction activities in the surrounding areas and other
infrastructure ensured

5.4.12 INSPECTION STAGES

5.4.12.1 Generally (Reg. 27,9(a), BCR, 2020)

i) Setting out of foundation of buildings.
ii) Foundations excavated and level pegs for concreting.
iii) Foundations concreted.
iv) Trenches for drainage work excavated to levels and gradients.
v) Drains laid and joined and ready for testing.
vi) Reinforcing steel fixed in position before concreting.
vii) Concrete shuttering ready for striking.
viii) Walls completed to wall-plate level.
ix) Roof frame-work completed before covering.
x) Practical completion before occupation.

5.4.12.2 RC Structures, Elements (Reg. 27, 9(b), BCR, 2020)

i) Foundations

• placement of reinforcement
• inspection date
• concreting date

ii) Retaining walls

• placement of reinforcement
• inspection date
• concreting date

iii) Columns

• placement of reinforcement
• inspection date
• concreting date

iv) Beams and slabs

• placement of reinforcement
• inspection date
• concreting date

5.4.12.3 Structural Steelwork (Reg. 27, 9(c), BCR, 2020)

• Erection date
• Inspection date
• Cladding date

5.4.12.4 Structural Timberwork (Reg. 27, 9(d), BCR, 2020)

• Erection date
• Inspection date
• Cladding date

5.4.13 STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

5.4.13.1 Foundations
a) Appropriate foundation designed and provided
b) The approved foundation design is in agreement with the precise
soil conditions
c) The approved foundation design is not practicable and therefore
there is need to review the design. The amendments made on site
are satisfactory or they require approval of the BC. Where BC ap-
proval it required, it has been obtained prior to continuation of the
works.
d) Adequate foundation to sustain both combine dead and imposed
loads and transmit the loads without causing failure or impairing
the structure.
e) Foundation is safe from the aggressive environment such as
chemicals
f) Foundation at a depth equal or greater than 1m to protect the
building against swelling, shrinking and erosion of the sub-soil.
g) Setting out of foundation of the works properly executed
h) Foundations excavated and level pegs for concreting.
i) Foundations concreted, erecting or otherwise, depending on type
and material used (concrete, steel, etc).

5.4.13.2 Structural framework comprising of columns, beams, slabs, wall (Mate-

rials may be structural steel, timber, masonry, reinforced concrete,
precast concrete etc)
a) Structural framework executed in accordance with the approved de-
signs and plans.
b) Critical elements within the framework identified and appropriately exe-
cuted in accordance with design
c) Connections between the structural elements appropriately executed
with adequate sizing and proper placement of the connections.
d) Adequate shuttering, propping and striking.
e) Appropriate construction technology most especially for reinforced con-
crete structures allowing concrete to achieve the desired strength prior
to subsequent loading.
f) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building ascer-
tained
g) Material tests carried and approved out for all key elements

5.4.13.3 Ring Beams

a) Ring beam appropriate sized and constructed in accordance with
approved plans
b) Adequate reinforcement provided
c) Adequate formwork provided
d) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
e) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building
ascertained

5.4.13.4 Staircases
a) Staircase constructed in accordance with approved plans
b) Adequate reinforcement provided
c) Adequate formwork provided
d) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
e) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained

5.4.13.5 Lift/Shaft Walls

a) Lift/Shaft Walls constructed in accordance with approved plans
b) Adequate reinforcement provided
c) Adequate formwork provided
d) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
e) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained

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 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

5.4.13.6 Retaining Walls

a) Retaining walls constructed in accordance with approved plans
b) Adequate reinforcement provided
c) Adequate formwork provided
d) Adequate temporary support systems provided
e) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
f) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained

5.4.13.7 Roof
a) Roof structure constructed in accordance with approved plans
b) Roof plates are properly bolted to the ring beam and that the raf-
ters are connected to the plate by bolts or acceptable connectors.
c) Appropriate roofing sheets used
d) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
e) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained
f) Appropriate gutters, drop pipes and roof drainage installed
g) Erection, connection, jointing or otherwise, depending on material
and type used (steel, timber, etc) properly executed
h) Waterproofing valleys and any other surfaces provided

5.4.3.8 Perimeter Walls

a) Perimeter walls constructed in accordance with approved plans

b) Adequate reinforcement provided where necessary
c) Adequate formwork provided where necessary
d) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
e) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained

5.4.3.9 Internal Roads/Drives-Surface Drainage

a) Internal Roads/Drives-Surface drainage provided in accordance

with approved plans
b) Adequate materials provided and used
c) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
d) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained

5.4.3.10 Foul Water Drainage and Sewerage

a) Foul Water Drainage and Sewerage constructed in accordance

with approved plans
b) Adequate materials provided and used
c) Quality of materials examined through material testing and ap-
proval
d) Identified defects corrected and their impact on the building as-
certained
Notes:
Reg. - Regulations
BCR. 2020 - Building Control Regulations. 2020

81
 Implementation Guide

6.0 BUILDING SERVICES

6.1 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.1.1 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not
Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.1.1.1 DESIGN DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

6.1.1.1.1 Approved design drawings.

6.1.1.1.2 Design Report.

6.1.1.1.3 Technical Specifications.

6.1.1.1.4 Unpriced BoQs.

6.1.1.2 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION (P4-P23, NBC Standards for Mechan-
ical Installations)

6.1.1.2.1 State of joints and connections of pipes.

6.1.1.2.2 Pipes properly installed.

6.1.1.2.3 Ensure water good quality.

6.1.1.2.4 Stop cocks, valves, pipes, ball valves/insulating valves.

6.1.1.2.5 Pumps and equipment, alternating power supply, availability of automatic

control.

6.1.1.2.6 Air compressors of the reciprocating type, suitability of installation.

6.1.1.2.7 • Pump properly installed.

• Water meter appropriately positioned.

6.1.1.2.8 Hot water system properly installed.

• Allowing for cleaning and disinfection of supply system.

• Testing done.

6.1.1.3 FIRST FIX MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.1.1.3.1 SANITARY FITTINGS, PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE WORKS (P24-P88, NBC

Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.3.1.1 Plumbing done well.

6.1.1.3.1.2 • Eaves gutters of 7 mm2.

• Cross section area to every 7 m2 of horizontal roofed surface laid to the
right gradient.

6.1.1.3.2 DRAINAGE WORKS (P55-P78, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.3.2.1 Connection to public sewer appropriately one.

• Appropriate material used.

• Surface water pipes laid properly.

6.1.1.3.3 SEPTIC TANKS (P79-P84, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.3.3.1 Submission to NWSC the disposal plan from septic tank, dip pipes. Examina-
tion of tank ventilation.

6.1.1.3.4 CESSPOOLS (P82-P84, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

82
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.1.1.3.4.1 Cesspool not situated within 2m of any spring, well stream of water.

6.1.1.3.4.2 Cesspool emptying not through any building.

6.1.1.3.4.3 Cesspool capacity determined by Building Committee to store soil for one
month at 135 litres per day.

6.1.1.3.5 TESTING AND DRAINAGE WORKS

6.1.1.3.5.1 Application to NWSC for sewage testing.

6.1.1.3.6 HEATING, VENTILATION AND AIR CONDITIONING (P89-P116, NBC Stan-

dards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.3.6.1 Air conditioning and ventilation systems done well.

• Appropriate materials used.

• Ensure there are openings.
• Connections and openings are tight to prevent distribution of combus-
tion products under fire.

6.1.1.4 SECOND FIX MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.1.1.4.1 DUCT COVERINGS, LININGS, ADHESIVES AND INSULATIONS (P92, NBC

Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.4.1.1 Ducting appropriately done.

• Appropriate materials used.

• Adhesives and insulation with flame spread rate below 25.
• Underground ducts laid appropriately.
• Clean out or pump out connection provided.

6.1.1.4.2 FIRE DAMPERS (P94, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.4.2.1 Test to ISO 12941.

6.1.1.4.3 SMOKE DETECTOR CONTROL (P95, NBC Standards for Mechanical Instal-
lations)

6.1.1.4.3.1 Air handling system to incorporate smoke detector control when required.

6.1.1.4.4 EXHAUST DUCTS AND OUTLETS (P96, NBC Standards for Mechanical In-
stallations)

6.1.1.4.4.1 Prevent back draft under wind.

6.1.1.4.4.2 Check for provision of removal of condensation where this is a problem.

6.1.1.4.4.3 To discharge to outside.

6.1.1.4.5 INTERCONNECTION SYSTEMS

6.1.1.4.5.1 In residential occupancy, air from one suite not to circulate in any other suite.

6.1.1.4.5.2 Exhaust ducts must exhaust through a storage garage.

6.1.1.4.5.3 Public corridor should not be part of supply return or exhaust air system serv-
ing adjuring areas.

6.1.1.4.6 FIRE SAFTEY (P117-P122, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.4.6.1 To give earliest warning of fire.

6.1.1.4.6.2 Fire alarm systems designed to avoid false alarm?

6.1.1.4.6.3 • Alarm system works reliably.

• At least two audible sounders installed in building.

83
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.1.1.4.6.4 Firefighting equipment installed visible with symbols as required by Building

committee.

6.1.1.4.6.5 Hose reels for firefighting installed in all building of more than 250 m2.

6.1.1.4.6.6 Hydrant bonnet colour coded Green orange and red to show discharge rate.

6.1.1.4.6.7 One hydrant for a maximum of 1000 m2.

6.1.1.4.6.8 Hydrant to provide at least 300m hose 16mm internal diameter nozzle.

6.1.1.4.6.9 Sprinkler system properly installed.

• Adequate pressure and how to measure.

6.1.1.4.6.10 Portable fire extinguishers in approved positions complying to ISO: 111162:26.

6.1.1.4.6.11 Firefighting lift for building exceeding 18 m.

6.1.1.4.6.12 Testing and certification of Fire Alarm System.

6.1.1.5 LIFTS (P145-P167, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.1.5.1 Building 15 m or more must have provision for lift.

• Appropriate lift fitted to standard.

• Inspection doors have a minimum height of 1.4 m and 6 mm width.
• Emergency doors have a minimum height of 1.8 m and width of 5 mm.
Notes:
NBC - National Building Code

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 Implementation Guide

6.1.2 MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS C BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not N/A

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.1.2.1 DESIGN DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

6.1.2.1.1 Approved design drawings.

6.1.2.1.2 Design Report.

6.1.2.1.3 Technical Specifications.

6.1.2.1.4 Unpriced BoQs.

6.1.2.2 WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION (P4-P23, NBC Standards for Mechan-
ical Installations)

Water supply appropriately done:

• Joints and connections correctly done.

• Appropriate materials used.
• Water quality maintained.
• Appropriate pump-room size and pump properly fitted with power supply.
• Appropriate hot water supply.
• Testing done.

6.1.2.3 FIRST FIX MECHANICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.1.2.3.1 SANITARY FITTINGS, PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE WORKS (P24-P88, NBC

Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.2.3.1.1 Plumbing done well.

6.1.2.3.1.2 • Eaves gutters of 7 mm2.

• Cross section area to every 7 m2 of horizontal roofed surface laid to the right
gradient.

6.1.2.3.2 DRAINAGE WORKS (P55-P78, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.2.3.2.1 Connection to public sewer appropriately done:

• Appropriate material used.

• Surface water pipes laid properly.

6.1.2.3.3 SEPTIC TANKS (P79-P84, NBC Standards for Mechanical Installations)

6.1.2.3.3.1 Submission to NWSC the disposal plan from septic tank, dip pipes. Examina-
tion of tank ventilation.

6.1.2.3.4 TESTING AND DRAINAGE WORKS

6.1.2.3.4.1 Application to NWSC for sewage testing.

Notes:
NBC - National Building Code

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 Implementation Guide

6.2 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.2.1 ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A, B AND C BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not
Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.1 DESIGN DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

6.2.1.1.1 DESIGN DRAWINGS

• Approved design drawings, technical specifications, shop drawings, Bills of

Quantities and Design Report on site including:

i) mains and standby power supply,

ii) power reticulation,

iii) lighting layout,

iv) small power layout,

v) fire detection system and

vi) solar PV system.

• Approximate position of existing services indicated on drawings.

6.2.1.2 FIRST FIX ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.2.1.2.1 SUB-STATION AND SWITCH ROOM (P4, NBC Standards for Electrical In-
stallations)

Floor level of sub-station is above the highest flood level of the locality.

6.2.1.2.2 CONDUIT (P16, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Steel conduit is not less than 20 mm diameter.

• Conduit boxes have covers.
• Heavy gauge, solid drawn or welded steel, galvanized or sheradised con-
duit with black enamel used externally.
• High impact, rigid grade plastic conduit used internally.
• Galvanised conduit used in damp areas.
• Solid drawn conduit used in flameproof installations.
• Fixing screws for conduits, switches and box covers are made of appropri-
ate material.
• Conduit terminated at a main switchboard, distribution board, consumer’s
unit or any metalclad accessory has screwed sockets in good mechanical
and electrical contact with the metal case.
• A draw box is used where there are more than two right angle bends.
• Conduits concealed in the building fabric are arranged as a “looping-in”
system without the use of elbows, tees or bends.
• Conduits are at least 150 mm away from gas piping, steam and hot water
systems.
• Expansion couplers used where conduit crosses expansion joints, with an
earth wire running between the nearest conduit box from each side of the
coupling and solidly bonded at each box.

6.2.1.2.3 MOUNTING HEIGHT OF ACCESSORIES (P17, NBC Standards for Electrical

Installations)

• Switchgear, distribution boards and consumer’s units mounted with lower

edge at 2000 mm from finished floor level.
• Light switches, other than ceiling switches fixed at 1400 mm from finished
floor level to the centre of the switch.
• Isolators and switch fuses, other than those mounted on busbar chambers
or providing local control fixed at 1400 mm from finished floor level to the
underside of the isolator or switch fuse.
• Socket outlets in offices and corridors are fixed 300 mm from finished floor
level to the underside of the socket outlet.

86
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.2.4 DUCTS FOR UNDERGROUND CABLES (P26 and P27, NBC Standards for
Electrical Installations)

• Ducts provided at points of entry into the buildings.

• Where cables cross under roads or paved areas, earthenware ducts are
provided as:

i) 1 cable, 2 x 100 mm or 150 mm ducts.

ii) 2 cables, 3 x 100 mm or 150 mm ducts.

iii) 3 cables, 4 x 100 mm or 150 mm ducts.

iv) 4 or 5 cables, 6 x 100 mm or 150 mm ducts.

v) 6, 7 or 8 cables, 9 x 100 mm or 150 mm ducts.

Ducts are clear of gas or water pipes, drains and sewers.

6.2.1.3 SECOND FIX ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.2.1.3.1 PROTECTIVE DEVICES (P8, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Every installation and circuit is protected against overcurrent.

• There is a suitably located efficient means for cutting off all voltage.
• Where one of the conductors of the installation is connected to earth,
there is no single pole switch, other than a link for testing purposes, or a
switch for controlling a generator.

6.2.1.3.2 SWITCHBOARD (P10, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Switchboards for the control of equipment rated at 240 V/415 V are stand-
ing, of uniform height, flush mounted and totally enclosed with a rigid
frame.
• Each switchboard is controlled by a suitable isolating switch or circuit
breaker.
• The arrangement of the switchboard is such that:

i) all parts which may have to be adjusted or handled are readily ac-
cessible,

ii) the course of every conductor can be readily traced,

iii) conductors that are not arranged for connection to the same sys-
tem are kept well apart and can readily be distinguished and

iv) all bare conductors are placed and protected to prevent accidental
short circuits.

• The base of the switchboard is effectively sealed.

• Ventilation louvres on the switchboard have a mesh gauze of non-corrosive
material.
• All bolts, nuts, screws, hinges and handles of the switchboard are corrosion
resistant.
• Cabling access to the switchboard is from the rear.
• The switchboard has hinged lockable doors at the front with termite resis-
tance neoprene gaskets and handles.
• Doors of the switchboards are electrically bonded to the main frame.
• Busbars are made of electro-tinned copper and are of uniform section.
• Busbars are run in separate screened compartments.
• Surge arresters have been installed on the 240V/415 V busbar of the low
voltage switchboard.
• Suitably sized compression type cable glands have been provided for all
cables.
• Glands used for armoured cables have provision for sealing the armour
wires.
• Lugs have been provided for connection of the cable armouring to earth.
• Lamp fittings are pre-lamped from the front of the switchboard and are
locked against rotation.
• Exposed terminals on the rear of door mounted components are shrouded.

87
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.3.3 SWITCHGEAR (P10-P11, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Switches are clearly labelled.

• Interlocks are installed.
• “ON/OFF” switches and circuit breakers are lockable.
• Switchgear to disconnect live conductors, is such that the neutral conduc-
tor cannot be disconnected or reconnected before the phase conductors.
• Switchgear is of 240 V or 415 V grade, single pole and neutral, double pole
and neutral, triple pole and neutral or quad pole and neutral.

6.2.1.3.4 ISOLATION (P12, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Switchboard with exposed bare conductors not located in an area set apart
for the purpose, is suitably enclosed.
• A clear passageway has been provided for exposed bare conductors.
• Insulating stands or screens have been provided.

6.2.1.3.5 CABLES (P14, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Cables are PVC insulated and PVC sheathed.

• Cables are of minimum 240 V rating, and not less than 1.5 mm2.
• Cables forming sub-circuits connected to different distribution boards are
not drawn in the same conduit.
• Surface cables are not installed within 300 mm of galvanized iron roofs.
• PVC/XPLE cable are used for outdoors, buried underground and protected
by conduit, where rising above the ground.
• Not more than one phase of an AC installation is brought into a fitting
in the lighting or single phase power circuits, unless indicated otherwise.
• Flexible cords are, visible, fire resistant and not less than 0.75 mm2.
• Cable joints are in a terminal block, of suitable current rating.
• Flexible cables and conduit wiring connections are in a suitable connector.
• Lighting switches are connected in the phase line.
• Ceiling switches are not less than 300 mm from the point they control.
• Sheathed cables are secured by saddles or clips.
• Cables are mounted on timber battens where they cannot be mounted
directly on the building.
• Holes in walls to where cables pass have sleeves, with bushed or belled
ends.
• There is no moisture ingress through service cables entering the building.
• Cables are colour coded appropriately.

6.2.1.3.6 TRUNKING (P15, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Trunking is secured at appropriate intervals.

• The trunking trough is clear of obstructions and continuously open, ex-
cept when passing through walls and floors.
• Each group of cables comprising a circuit, installed in trunking, is half
hitched at 600 mm intervals, and the circuit reference is clearly identi-
fied.

6.2.1.3.7 EXCAVATION FOR UNDERGROUND CABLES (P32, NBC Standards for Elec-
trical Installations)

• Trenches were excavated appropriately to lay underground cables at a

minimum depth of 600 mm below finished ground level.
• Trenchless excavation is used when crossing roads and pathways unless
otherwise approved.
• Upon completion of laying and testing of cables, trenches were appro-
priately covered.
• Services near cable routes that were uncovered are adequately support-
ed.
• Damaged services have been reinstated.

88
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.3.8 LAYING UNDERGROUND CABLES (P24, P25, P27, P28, P29 and P31, NBC
Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Cables are buried in open ground appropriately prepared, or drawn into

earthenware or other ducts when crossing roadways, paths exceeding
1500 mm in width, and on entry into buildings.
• Cables were appropriately laid and spaced.
• Cables are separated from gas and water mains.
• Cables to termination points in sub-stations or buildings enter via glazed
earthenware pipes, sealed appropriately.
• Cables with a run of more than 1800 mm inside a building are cleated or
saddled to walls or ceilings.
• Jointing of underground cables is minimised as approved.
• Underground cable terminations and joints are appropriately labelled.
• Appropriate warning covers and tape are provided over all underground
cables except XLPE SWA PVC cables.
• Cable ducts sealed appropriately after installation and final tests.
• Cable runs are clearly marked.
• Armouring is efficiently bonded.

6.2.1.3.9 MAINS POWER SUPPLY

6.2.1.3.9.1 FEEDER PILLAR (P33, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• The feeder pillar is a “dwarf type” tailless unit, that is weatherproof, of ro-
bust construction, with hinged lockable doors, mounted on a firm base
and protected from ingress of rainwater, vermin or termites or other
danger within the enclosure.
• The fuse ways are clearly identified.

6.2.1.3.9.2 EARTHING (P34, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Appropriate earthing is provided adjacent to supply terminals.

• The earth continuity of conduit and trunking installations is reliable and
permanent.
• All parts not solidly connected to earthing are connected thereto by a
solid copper conductor and bonding clamps.
• All services entering the installation at earth potential are efficiently
bonded to the main earth points.
• The resistance of the earth continuity system does not exceed 8 ohms.
• All flexible metallic tubing has an insulated earth conductor.
• The size of the earth conductor is not less than 4 mm2.

6.2.1.3.9.3 LIGHTNING PROTECTION (P35, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Lightning protection system provided consisting of 20 x 3 mm copper

or aluminium tape sections, with similar clips, test clamps and copper
bond earth rods.
• The tape from the earth test position to the earth electrode is copper
only.
• Aluminium and copper junctions are suitably jointed.
• The earth resistance does not exceed 10 ohms.

6.2.1.4 THIRD FIX ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

6.2.1.4.1 DISTRIBUTION BOARDS AND CONSUMERS UNITS (P5, NBC Standards for
Electrical Installations)

Distribution Boards, Consumer’s Units, circuit breakers, fuses and switches

are clearly marked.

6.2.1.4.2 LIGHTS

RCDs are installed in circuits for security lighting.

6.2.1.4.3 SWITCHES (P19, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Lighting switches are 5 A or 15 A, of insulated pattern, single pole, quick

make and slow break for AC circuits, and quick make and quick break for
DC circuits, unless otherwise approved.
• Ceiling switches are suitably mounted with a pull cords.

89
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.4.4 SOCKET OUTLETS (P19, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Single phase socket outlets are 3 pin rectangular, shuttered, unless oth-
erwise approved, with the third pin effectively earthed.
• Three phase socket outlets are of 4 pin scraping earth pattern.
• Three phase with neutral outlets are of 5 pin scraping earth pattern.
• Socket outlets are switched type unless otherwise approved.
• RCD protected socket outlets are installed in wet areas.

6.2.1.4.5 WATER HEATER OUTLETS

• The water heater is the only equipment connected to the circuit, for wa-
ter heaters with a capacity of 15 litres or more.
• The flexible cord of the water heater is heat resistant.
• The water heater has a 20 A Double Pole switch and an overheat protec-
tion cut-out.

6.2.1.5 TESTING OF ELECTRICTAL INSTALLATIONS (P37, NBC Standards for Elec-

trical Installations)

The tests below were carried out on the complete installation and on each
circuit.

i) Continuity of bonding conductors

ii) Continuity of circuit protective conductors

iii) Continuity of ring final circuit conductors

iv) Insulation resistance tests

v) Insulation of non-conducting floors

vi) Polarity

vii) Earth fault loop impedance

viii) Earth electrode resistance

ix) Phase sequence

x) Operation of residual current operated devices

6.2.1.6 SOLAR PV SYSTEMS

6.2.1.6.1 PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS (P39-P41, NBC Standards for Electrical Installa-

tions)

• The photovoltaic panels have a quality mark.

• The photovoltaic panels are positioned to avoid shading.
• Where shading is unavoidable, it has been compensated for by reducing
the daily energy output in the system design.
• The photovoltaic panel is inclined at an angle of between 10 and 20 de-
grees to the horizontal plane, facing due north or south, for fixed panels.

6.2.1.6.2 LIGHTNING PROTECTION FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS (P42, NBC Stan-

dards for Electrical Installations)

• The photovoltaic panels are installed at a point lower than the highest
point of the building.
• The support frame of the PV panels has a short lightning rod which is the
highest point of the building.

6.2.1.6.3 PHOTOVOLTAIC PANELS SUPPORT STRUCTURE (P43, NBC Standards for

Electrical Installations)

• The photovoltaic panels support structure is durable and weather and cor-
rosion resistant.
• The photovoltaic panels structure is securely fixed.

90
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.6.4 ROOF MOUNTING OF PV PANELS (P44, NBC Standards for Electrical In-
stallations)

• The mounting of PV panels on roofs is done to prevent leakages and corro-

sion of roofing materials.
• Where the solar PV panels form part of the roof, the roof is weathered prop-
erly and there is suitable ventilation beneath the solar PV panels.

6.2.1.6.5 GROUND MOUNTING OF PV PANELS (P45, NBC Standards for Electrical

Installations)

• Ground mounted PV panels are well supported, fenced and not mount-
ed closer than 800 mm from the ground.

6.2.1.6.6 BATTERIES (P46-P47, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Batteries are of deep discharge type and have a long-life cycle.

• Each battery is marked with the date of manufacture and installation.
• Batteries are installed in enclosed equipment.
• At least 20 mm free space has been left between the batteries and the
wall and top of the batteries enclosure.
• The batteries enclosure is ventilated, securely fixed and made of durable
materials, and if made of wood, it is well preserved against insects, ter-
mites, rot or acid.

6.2.1.6.7 CONTROLLER (P48, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• A controller is installed.
• The rated capacity of the controller can handle the maximum short cir-
cuit current from the PV array, and the maximum load.
• The controller and circuit breakers or fuses bear the manufacturer’s PV
quality mark.
• The controller has a warning and remote alarm (if installed in a room that
is not used).

6.2.1.6.8 INVERTER

• The inverter has adequate ventilation.

• The inverter has clearly labelled DC rated isolation on the DC side.
• The inverter has a lockable AC isolator on the AC side.
• Where the inverter is sited away from the consumer’s unit, a lockable AC
isolator is installed next to the consumer’s unit.
• The inverter has simple separation between the AC and DC side, if not
the solar PV array frame is bonded.

6.2.1.6.9 CIRCUITS OF SOLAR PV SYSTEMS (P48, NBC Standards for Electrical In-
stallations)

• There is a warning of low battery for non-essential circuits.

• The system is protected against damage due to accidental short-circuits.
• The peak demand of each circuit does not exceed 80% of the rated ca-
pacity of the fuse or circuit breaker.
• Each fuse or circuit-breaker is clearly marked.
• All equipment is rated at a minimum of 1.15 times the maximum voltage,
and 1.25 times the maximum current produced in the system.

6.2.1.6.10 CONDUIT (P59, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Surface mounted conduit with single wire conductors is installed appro-

priately.
• PVC conduit is used under floors.
• Steel conduit is used where heavy or unpredictable loads may occur.
• Under floor conduit is not less than 20 mm diameter.

6.2.1.6.11 CONDUCTORS (P54, P60, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• The correct type of cables are used for the DC and AC installation and
they are correctly labelled and colour coded.
• The rated current carrying capacity at 35°C is not exceeded.
• Minimum cross section area of the conductors is 2.5 mm2.
• The cables from the solar PV panels are tied to the array frame, for a roof
mounted installation.
• The cables are installed appropriately.

91
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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.6.12 VOLTAGE DROP (P60, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• The voltage across any system component is not less than 5% of the bat-
tery terminal voltage, and not less than 10.5 V.
• The voltage drop between the PV panels and batteries does not exceed
1.0 V or 5%, measured at maximum charging current.

6.2.1.6.13 CABLE CONNECTIONS (P62, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Cables are connected using junction boxes, block connectors or solder-

ing joints with insulating sleeves.
• The rated capacity through the cable joints is not less than that of the
circuit to which they are a part of.

6.2.1.6.14 UNDERGROUND CABLES AND CONDUITS (P63, NBC Standards for Electri-
cal Installations)

• Underground cables are at least 600 mm below the surface and are
clearly marked.
• Underground cables are used across all areas with vehicular traffic
• The underground cables and conduits can withstand vertical loads.
• Suspended cables are mounted so that the lowest point is at least 2700
mm above ground level.
• Cables are suitably held in position.
• Ultra violet resistant cables are used outdoors.
• Attachments of cables or conduit are made with appropriate fasteners.
• Cable holes through the roof are drilled at the top of corrugations, sealed
and waterproofed with ultra violet-resistant silicon sealant or its equiv-
alent.
• Cables passed through roofs are contained in roof-entry boxes.
• Cables fixed through or passing through flammable are shielded in
non-flammable conduits.
• Fittings are fastened to suitable supports.

6.2.1.6.15 LIGHTS (P65, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• A metal lamp fitting or shield is installed on lamps next to thatched or

flammable ceiling materials.
• Lamps with enclosures or detractors can be opened.
• RCDs are installed in circuits for security lighting.

6.2.1.6.16 SOCKETS (P66, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• It is not possible to reverse the polarity of the socket outlets.

• 240 VAC mains sockets are used where a 240 V outlet is provided from
a DC-AC inverter.
• Circuit breakers and earthing are provided.
• Installations that have DC sockets are wired so that the large diameter
pin in the plug is always positive.
• All positive connections are made with red insulated wire and negative
connections are made with black insulated wire.
• RCD protected socket outlets are installed in wet areas.

6.2.1.6.17 SWITCHES (P67, NBC Standards for Electrical Installations)

• Standard switches for 240 VAC are not used as an alternative to special
switches for 12 VDC, 24 VDC and 48 VDC, except as approved.
• All switches are rated at twice their expected load current.
• All switches include a clear visual indication of their state.

6.2.1.6.18 LABELLING OF COMPONENTS OF SOLAR PV SYSTEMS (P54, NBC Stan-

dards for Electrical Installations)

All solar PV equipment is suitably and legibly labelled.

6.2.1.6.19 WARNING ON SOLAR PV INSTALLATIONS

The warnings below are provided:

• dual supply, indicating the isolation point for the solar PV system and the
mains power supply,
• live DC cable,
• PV junction boxes and
• battery enclosure.

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.6.20 TESTING OF SOLAR PV SYSTEM (P55, NBC Standards for Electrical Instal-
lations)

The tests below have been carried out on the DC side of the solar PV instal-
lation.

a) Voltage drops (BS 7671:2018, Appendix 4).

(b) Open circuit voltage (VOC).

c) Short circuit current (ISC).

d) Solar irradiance.

e) Insulation resistance.

6.2.1.6.21 WARRANTIES AND COMPONENTS OF SOLAR PV SYSTEM (P56, NBC Stan-

dards for Electrical Installations)

a) Light bulbs, 1 year.

b) Batteries, 1 year.

c) PV modules, 5 years.

d) Wiring to PV modules, 5 years.

e) Controller, 3 years.

f) Inverter, 3 years.

6.2.1.7 FIRE DETECTION AND ALARM SYSTEM

• An automatic fire detection and alarm system is installed in:

i) buildings in which people sleep,

ii) covered shopping complexes and large or complex places of assembly,

iii) buildings with phased evacuation,

iv) in compensation for a reduction in standards of certain other fire pro-

tection measures,

v) in lieu of vision between an inner room and its associated access room
or

vi) as a means of automatically operating other fire protection measures.

• The fire detection and alarm system includes manual call points and
point detectors.
• There is a fire alarm control and indicating panel.
• There is a zone plan next to the fire alarm control and indicating panel.
• The fire detection and alarm system has been tested.

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OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.2.1.8 EMERGENCY LIGHTING

Emergency lighting is installed in the following areas:

i) each exit door,

ii) escape routes,

iii) intersections of corridors,

iv) outside each final exit,

v) on external escape routes,

vi) on emergency escape signs,

vii) stairways so that each flight receives adequate light,

viii) changes in floor level,

ix) windowless toilets and toilet accommodation exceeding 8 m2,

x) at fire fighting equipment,

xi) at fire alarm call points,

xii) at equipment that would need to be shut down in an emergency,

xiii) in lifts and

xiv) in rooms of area greater than 60 m2.

6.2.1.9 AS-BUILT DRAWINGS

As-built drawings are provided for all electrical installations.

Notes:
NBC - National Building Code

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6.3 ICT INSTALLATIONS IN CLASS A AND B BUILDINGS

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not
Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.3.1 DESIGN DRAWINGS

There are approved design drawings on site of the following:

a) Private Automatic Exchange System (PABX),

b) Local area data network (structured cabling),

c) Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) and

d) Access Control.

6.3.2 POWER SUPPLY

• Buildings containing essential ICT rooms have a local duplicated supply of

mains power.
• Several small ICT rooms use a shared secondary electricity distribution sys-
tem.
• Distribution boards for mains power supply, standby power supply and un-
interruptible power supply are located in separate cabinets.
• Distribution Boards supplying essential ICT rooms have each circuit break-
er installed in a separate case, isolated from the busbar. The cable connec-
tions for each circuit breaker are isolated from each other.
• Distribution Boards in ICT rooms have plug-in circuit breakers.
• Distribution Boards in ICT rooms have 10% spare circuits and 30% free
space.
• Overvoltage protection is installed in the Distribution Boards supplying
power to essential ICT rooms.
• ICT rooms have emergency shut-down switches for mains power supply
and UPS. The switches are protected to prevent unintentional disconnec-
tion.
• The distance between electricity distribution boards and active or passive
ICT equipment is at least 1000 mm.
• All electrical installations in ICT rooms have colour coded labels.
• All circuits are labelled with a circuit number.

6.3.3 STANDBY POWER

• Major buildings with essential ICT rooms have diesel generators providing
standby power with an output of at least 1½ to 2 times the calculated load.
• If the generator is to supply other loads, this is allowed for.
• The generator has an outdoor diesel tank with at least 72 hours capacity.

6.3.4 UPS POWER SUPPLY

• A centralised online UPS is installed to supply ICT rooms.

• The UPS is electrically isolated during normal inverter operation and in
static bypass mode of operation.
• For UPS installations of greater than 50 kVA, the distribution boards for the
mains power supply, standby power supply and UPS power are located in
another room away from the server room, UPS room or battery room, but
adjacent to these rooms.
• The UPS has manual bypass switching.
• The UPS has static bypass switching.

6.3.5 UPS AND BATTERY ROOM

• UPS installations of greater than 50 kVA and with long discharge time are
located in a dedicated UPS and battery room.
• The UPS and battery room has a cooling system.
• The UPS and battery room with a high load level of up to 1500 kg/m2 is
located in the basement of the building.
• The battery room is ventilated.

6.3.6 POWER DISTRIBUTION UNITS (PDUs)

• Power Distribution Units are installed in equipment racks connected to

power sockets on cable trays.

95
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.3.7 CONDUIT AND CABLING

• ICT rooms and conduit paths for IT cables are located at a safe distance
from installations which emit electric fields.
• All cable penetrations for EMC cables are limited to a small area of the wall.
• Separate conduit paths or racks are installed for electric power supply, ge-
neric cabling and patch cords in server rooms, Equipment Rooms (ERs)
and Telecommunication Rooms (TRs).
• In larger server rooms, telephony/data cables are laid on racks beneath the
ceiling and power cables are laid on racks beneath a raised floor.
• Cable installations beneath raised floors do not block circulation of cooling
air.
• The height of the raised floor is a minimum of 400 mm.
• The sub-floor of the raised floor was lowered so that the raised floor is at the
same height as the floors in adjacent rooms.
• The raised floor can withstand the weight of the ICT equipment.
• If a raised floor could not be installed because of limited ceiling height,
cooling racks and chambers have been installed.
• All operating computer equipment cables, distribution networks cables
and backbone cables are installed on racks accessed from the front.
• The smallest clearance at all surfaces on racks and cabinets where access
is required is 1200 mm.
• Telephone cables are high conductivity copper conductors of 3 kg or 9 kg
per mile weight and are polythene insulated PVC sheathed overall.
• Telecommunication cables have surge protection installed and are
earthed.
• Outdoor cables are laid in conduit. If more than one cable is installed in a
conduit, these are pulled simultaneously.
• Manholes are provided for accessing the cables. Distances between man-
holes are short.
• The bottom of the trench in which the conduit is laid is free from stones
and sharp edges.
• The foundation of the trench in which the conduit is laid is at least 100 mm
deep and is composed of appropriate fill material.
• The area where the conduit lies is appropriately backfilled.
• Cable entry is through rooms that are a safe distance from power cables
or transformers, have easy access to the pathway to the ICT room and have
floor drains.
• All cabling that penetrates fire barriers is fireproofed.
• All cables are labelled.
• Trunking or conduit containing signal cables and power cables cross each
other at right angles.

6.3.8 ICT ROOMS

• There is a free space of 1200 mm between all rack surfaces to which access
is required.
• ICT rooms containing active equipment are not used as store rooms.
• Store rooms containing inflammable materials are not located adjacent
to ICT rooms.
• Water pipes running through ICT rooms are for supply of cooling installa-
tions only.
• Floor drains in ICT rooms are fitted with non-return valves.
• Humidity sensors are installed in floors close to cooling units and near wa-
ter pipes running through the ICT room and drains in ICT rooms.
• Water pipes running through ICT rooms and pipes serving cooling units in
ICT rooms are insulated. The pipes are at the same earth potential as the
ICT installations.
• ICT rooms are air tight.
• An early detection fire detection system is installed in ICT rooms.
• Fire extinguisher systems are installed in ICT rooms.

6.3.9 CEILING HEIGHT IN ICT ROOMS

• The minimum ceiling height in ICT rooms is 2600 mm from the floor to the
underside of cable racks and light fittings.
• There is at least 400 mm clearance from the tops of cable racks for patch
cables, to the underside of any ceiling mounted installation in ICT rooms.

6.3.10 LIGHTING IN ICT ROOMS

• Lights are installed to illuminate the outsides, insides and between racks.
• Emergency lighting is installed.
• The light intensity on the horizontal plane is 500 – 800 lux, and on the ver-
tical plane is 200 lux.

96
 Implementation Guide

OUTCOMES Acceptable √ Unacceptable UNC Improvement IMP Not Not

Condition Condition Recommended Verified Applicable

OUTCOMES

(Use codes
QUERY RECTIFIED
ITEM No. DESCRIPTION above. Pro-
(Y/N)
vide com-
ment where
appropriate)

6.3.11 EARTHING OF ICT ROOMS

• Floor coverings in ICT rooms are earthed. The resistance between any point
in the floor covering and earth is between 1 and 10 MΩ.
• Racks, cabinets, chassis, ventilation installations, room cooling units, pipes,
cable racks and floors of ICT rooms have the same earth potential.
• All ICT rooms have their own earth rail for connecting the conductive struc-
tural and equipment surfaces.
• There is a dedicated mesh earth bonding network in essential ICT rooms.
• In small ICT rooms where no mesh earth bonding network is installed, an
insulated earth cable is provided.
• Patch panels are earthed appropriately.

6.3.12 ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM

• Access Control System has 24 hour battery backup.

• Access Control system connected to UPS.

6.3.13 CCTV

• CCTV has 24 hour battery backup.

• CCTV connected to UPS.

6.3.14 AS-BUILT DRAWINGS

Notes:
NBC - National Building Code

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 Implementation Guide

ANNEX 1: CLASSES OF BUILDINGS

Class A Building: Buildings with high social impact or located in sensitive ecosystem.

1) Hospitals (Medical Centres, Clinics, etc.)

2) Schools
3) Churches
4) Shopping Malls and Arcades
5) Multi-storeyed Buildings – more than 12 m high (Offices, Accommodation and
Mixed Use)

Class B Buildings

1) Multi-storeyed Buildings – less than 12 m high (Offices, Accommodation and Mixed

Use)
2) Single-storeyed Buildings (Offices, Accommodation and Mixed Use)

Class C Buildings

1) Temporary Buildings/Structures – more than 30 m2 (Tents, Marquees, Farmhouses,

Sheds, Garages, Hoardings, etc.)
2) Minor Buildings – less than 30 m2 (Stalls, etc.)

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99
2nd floor Southwing Rumee
Plot 19 Lumumba Avenue,
Nakasero Kampala, Uganda

P.O Box 7349, Kampala

Hotline: 0800 220746

Tel no. 0312421600

[email protected]