Apply for recognition as a test expert for earthworks and foundation engineering

Inspection experts inspect and certify compliance with building code requirements. A test expert or test expert for earthworks and foundation engineering is a person who is recognised as such by the Supreme Building Supervisory Authority. Other persons may not use this designation. In Berlin, only persons who have their place of business/place of work in the state of Berlin as freelancers or employees can be recognised.

Inspection experts for earthworks and foundation engineering are recognised upon application. Applications can be submitted at any time. Only persons who fulfil the general requirements (§ 4 BauPrüfV) and the special requirements (§ 23 BauPrüfV) can be recognised. The special requirements also include proof of special expertise in the form of an expert opinion from an advisory board of the Federal Chamber of Engineers. Applicants must undergo an extensive examination procedure consisting of the assessment of subsoil reports and a written examination.

Prerequisites

  • Personal suitability
    • Proficiency in written and spoken German,
    • No criminal record.
  • Registered office, status
    • The place of business/work is located in the state of Berlin,
    • The work is carried out on a freelance basis on own account or as an employee without being bound by instructions.
  • Education
    Completed degree in civil engineering, geotechnics or a degree programme with a focus on engineering geology at a German university or an equivalent degree at a foreign university.
  • Professional experience
    • At least nine years' experience in the construction industry, of which at least three years must be full-time.
    • Preparation and assessment of stability analyses in earthworks and foundation engineering.

Documents required

  • Application for recognition as a test expert for earthworks and foundation engineering
    Submit the completed application form and the accompanying questionnaire in writing by post.
  • Curriculum vitae
    Curriculum vitae with complete details of your professional career up to the date of application.
  • Certificates of completion and employment
    A copy of each of the degree and employment certificates as well as the diploma, bachelor's or master's certificate.
  • Certificate of good conduct
    Proof of the application for a certificate of good conduct for submission to an authority (document type O), which is not older than 3 months, or an equivalent document.
  • Proof of personal responsibility and independence
    • Copy of tax office registration or declaration by the employer that the audit expert activity is carried out free of instructions,
    • Details of any branch offices,
    • Details of any shareholdings in a company whose purpose is the planning or realisation of construction projects.
  • Proof of professional experience
    List of the subsoil reports prepared in the last two years, of which at least ten reports must demonstrate the completion of above-average tasks.
  • Further information and explanations
    • Recognition procedures in other countries,
    • Declaration that the necessary insurance cover is available in the event of recognition.
  • Proof of professional suitability
    Expert opinion from the Federal Chamber of Engineers (arranged by the recognition authority).

Forms

Fees

The amount depends on the outcome of the procedure

  • EUR 500.00 Recognition fee
  • EUR 1.500 Preparation of the expert opinion

Legal basis

Average time to process request

9 months

More information

Notes on responsibility

The Senate Department for Urban Development and Housing, Supreme Building Inspectorate, is the recognising authority for inspection experts for the inspection of technical installations.

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