Illegal
Illegal means something that is not according to, is contrary to or is not authorised by a specific law (or in some cases official rule).
In terms of building design and construction, the term may be used in a number of different contexts:
Contents |
[edit] Illegal act
An illegal act is an act or activity that is contrary to the law. In construction this can be a single act carried out on site that is contrary to law - such as failure to comply with health and safety legislation.
[edit] Illegal building or construction
An illegal building might be a building that has been constructed without planning permission or is not compliant with the building regulations.
[edit] Illegal cartel
An illegal cartel is a group of firms or other entities that work together to manipulate or monopolise a market such as fixing prices, or engaging in other activities illegal under the law..
[edit] Illegal employment
Illegal employment might be employment that occurs without the correct procedures, record or permission under the law.
[edit] Illegal economy
An illegal economy is any form of commerce that is in violation of the law, without the necessary registrations or records. It might also called an underground or black market economy.
[edit] Illegal housing
Illegal housing is a term used for any housing that does not have permission to be there or to be used in that way.
[edit] Illegal use
Illegal use of a site might be contrary to the law or does not have permission - for example a commercial building being used as housing without the required approval or change of use class.
[edit] Illegal works
Illegal works might occur when building works that require permission have started, without that permission being in place.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Bribery.
- Cartell.
- CDM.
- Collusion.
- Construction and the Modern Slavery Act.
- Corporate social responsibility in construction.
- Gifts, bribes and kickbacks.
- Equality Act.
- Ethical labour sourcing standard.
- Ethics and the engineer.
- Ethics in construction.
- Health and safety.
- Legislation.
- Modern slavery.
- Money laundering.
- Monopoly.
- Permission.
Featured articles and news
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.