Power of entry and inspection

(1) Any officer or employee of NICH duly authorized in writing by NICH may enter any area, property, site under investigation, or building if NICH considers it necessary to do so in the discharge of any function under this Act or if NICH considers that there are reasonable grounds to believe that an offence under this Act, or permit conditions made hereunder has been or is about to be committed. (2) Where entry is for the purpose of inspection or documentation purposes, NICH shall serve a written notice the occupier of heritage an asset, of its intended entry, and thereupon the officer or employee authorized as aforesaid shall be given access to such heritage asset where conservation, restoration, works carried out under a repairs notice, or development is taking place. (3) No person shall enter any building or any court or garden attached to any dwelling house except with the consent of the occupier or owner thereof and unless previously giving such occupier or owner at least twenty-four hours’ notice of his intention to do so.