Online Faculty Applications – FAQs
Do we have to use the online system?
We strongly encourage you to use the online system for List B and Faculty applications. It keeps all uploaded documents together; applications can easily be shared with consultees such as the Victorian Society; when an application is submitted to the next stage, it is automatically sent to the correct people; and it allows you to track the stage that your application has reached.
However, if you are unable to use the online system for some reason, we can still accept forms by email or post. Please be aware that this means that we will have to input your application into the online system for you.
How do we get an account for the online system?
You will need to register for an account here: When you register, make sure to select your church. There will be a slight delay before you can log-in whilst the DAC office authenticates your account.
Who can register for an account?
The account should be held by someone who is authorised to submit applications on behalf of the church. In the first instance, this should be the incumbent, churchwardens, PCC Secretary or PCC treasurer. However, we are aware that responsibility for application paperwork is often delegated ie: to an administrator or fabric committee. In that case, we need an email from the incumbent or churchwardens confirming that the PCC has authorised the person in question to make applications.
You might want to consider using a generic email address ie: office@... or wardens@... to register for an account. That way it will be easier to manage changes in personnel.
Can our architect have an account?
We understand that on major projects, the architect will often be involved in submitting the plans to the DAC and approaching consultees on behalf of the church. Therefore, architects can register for an account so that they can continue to assist in this manner, provided that they have been permitted to act on behalf of the PCC.
Can we have more than one account per church?
Yes and all accounts will receive notifications about applications for that church.
I make faculty applications for several churches; can I have an account for each one?
When you register for an account you can add more than one church to your account.
I just want to submit documents to the DAC not fill in all the forms but the system won’t let us proceed until the forms are completed?
If you open up each form in turn, go to the last page and then click ‘finish form’ the system will let you submit the application.
I have uploaded a Statement of Need/included a short statement in the petition form but the system won’t let us procced without filling in the full statement of Need section?
As above, if you go to the last page of the online statement of Need and click ‘finish form’ you will be able to submit.
I can’t seem to upload more than one document?
You can’t select more than one document to upload at one time but you can upload multiple documents if you do so one by one.
How do I sign the forms?
The online forms now have an electronic signature – this name is taken from the last account to click 'finish form' before submitting an application to the next stage. Therefore, if your architect is completing some forms for you, we recommend that the parish do a final check of each form and 'finish form'. This is also good practice as it is ultimately your application and it is the responsibility of the petitioners to ensure that the application is accurate.
Where can I go for more help with the system?
The Church Buildings Council have produced a detailed user guide which is available here: This should answer most questions but, if you still have problems, please get in touch with the DAC officers.