CH254030 - How to do a compliance check: Using inspection powers: Unannounced inspections: Issuing the notice

In common with announced visits, an unannounced visit should be done at a reasonable time, see CH25460.

When you arrive you must give the occupier of the premises a written notice of the inspection using the template inspection notice at

• CHApp1.11 or
• CHApp1.12 if the visit has been approved by the tribunal.

You should explain the reason for your visit to the occupier and how you intend to carry out the inspection.

You must also give the occupier a copy of the factsheet CC/FS4 Compliance Checks - Visits - unannounced (or CC/FS5 if the inspection is tribunal-approved) and ask if they have any questions.

If the person who is the subject of your compliance check is present, you should advise them that they can call their agent if they wish, although you will not be able to delay the start of the inspection until the agent can attend.

If the occupier is not present, you should give the inspection notice to any person who appears to be in charge. If there is no one who appears to be in charge, leave the notice in a prominent place. Take care to ensure the notice is free from public gaze and safe from the elements. If that is not possible the notice should be delivered to the occupier’s main postal business address.

You must not force entry or use clandestine means to gain entry. If you are refused entry to the premises you should follow the guidance at CH255520.

A template, CHApp2.1 (Internal Template IT01 in SEES Forms and Letters) is available for you to make your report to an authorised officer. The authorised officer may use template CHApp2.2 (Internal Template IT02 in SEES Forms and Letters) to reply.