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Development Control and Planning Board Inspections: A Crucial Step in St. Kitts and Nevis’ Construction Process

The Development Control and Planning Board (DCPB) plays a vital role in ensuring compliance with building regulations in St. Kitts and Nevis. In this article, we will explore the importance of DCPB inspections and the process of obtaining necessary permits.

Inspections by the DCPB

According to Section 111 Inspections of the Development Control and Planning Act Cap 20.07, the DCPB conducts a series of inspections at specific stages during the construction process. These inspections include:

  • Setting out
  • Footings
  • Slabs before concreting
  • Structural frame and roof inspections

These inspections are designed to verify that construction is being carried out in accordance with approved plans and regulations.

Requesting an Occupancy Certificate

Once construction is complete, building owners must request an occupancy certificate from the DCPB. This certificate will only be issued after a final inspection has taken place.

Obtaining an Occupancy Permit

After receiving the occupancy certificate, building owners can then obtain an occupancy permit from the DCPB.

Additional Requirements

In addition to the mandatory inspections and permits, building owners must also:

  • Apply for a water connection with the St. Kitts Water Services Department
    • This process takes 35 days and costs XCD 1,200

Building Quality Control Index

According to the World Bank’s Doing Business 2020 report, St. Kitts and Nevis’ building quality control index scores 7 out of 15. The country’s quality of building regulations index scores zero out of two, indicating that building laws and regulations are not easily accessible.

Key Findings

  • There is no latent defect liability or decennial liability in the country
  • No party is held liable for structural flaws or problems in buildings once they are in use
  • No requirement for professionals involved in the construction process to obtain insurance coverage against such defects

Getting Electricity

This topic measures the procedures, time and cost required for a business to obtain a permanent electricity connection for a newly constructed warehouse. The reliability of supply and transparency of tariffs index also assesses the reliability of electricity supply, transparency of tariffs, and the price of electricity in St. Kitts and Nevis.

For More Information

For more information on doing business in St. Kitts and Nevis, please visit the World Bank’s Doing Business website.