Navigating the Future: Building Control in 2024

May 18, 2022

As we embark on 2024, the building control industry stands at the cusp of significant transformation. Driven by rapid technological innovation, heightened environmental awareness, and evolving regulatory landscapes, this sector is not just about ensuring structural safety and compliance anymore; it’s about leading the charge towards a smarter, greener, and more efficient future. In this blog, we'll navigate through these changes, highlighting the key trends and the vast career opportunities they present for professionals in building control.

Trend 1: Digitalisation and Smart Technology

In recent years, there's been a significant shift towards digitalisation in building control. According to a report by MarketsandMarkets, the global smart building market is projected to grow from $80.62 billion in 2022 to $328.62 billion by 2029, at a CAGR of 22.7%. This surge reflects an increased adoption of IoT (Internet of Things) devices, AI (Artificial Intelligence), and BIM (Building Information Modelling). For professionals, this means a growing demand for skills in digital literacy, data analysis, and tech-savvy problem-solving.

Trend 2: Sustainability and Green Building Practices

Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword but a crucial element in building control. The World Green Building Trends 2021 report highlights that 47% of respondents anticipate that the majority of their projects (over 60%) will be green by 2024. This trend is fuelled by global environmental concerns and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. Professionals in this field must now be adept in sustainable building practices, energy efficiency standards, and eco-friendly materials.

Trend 3: Regulatory Changes and Compliance

Regulatory landscapes are continually evolving to accommodate new challenges and technological advancements. The International Code Council (ICC) updates its building codes every three years, reflecting changes in safety, sustainability, and building technology. Staying abreast of these changes and understanding their implications is essential for building control professionals, as it affects compliance, safety standards, and even design aesthetics.

Trend 4: Focus on Health and Well-being

The pandemic has brought a new focus on health and well-being in the built environment. A study by Dodge Data & Analytics shows that 73% of architects, engineers, contractors, and owners prioritise healthier building practices more now than before the pandemic. This shift towards creating healthier living and working spaces has opened new avenues in building design and control, emphasising ventilation, air quality, and occupant comfort.

What we think...

The building control industry in 2024 is vibrant and evolving, presenting an array of opportunities for professionals. Whether it's adapting to new technologies, embracing sustainability, navigating regulatory shifts, or prioritizing health and well-being in design, the sector demands continuous learning and adaptability. For those willing to embrace these changes, the future is not just promising; it's exciting. As we continue to build smarter, greener, and healthier spaces, the role of building control professionals becomes more pivotal than ever, making this an ideal time to advance or kick-start a career in this dynamic field.