You need building regulations approval to check the work you are doing is structurally safe, provides proper access and facilities, and meets certain energy efficiency standards.
You will need building regulations approval for:
- a new dwelling (some detached buildings are exempt dependant on size and what materials they are constructed from)
- an extension
- a loft or garage conversion
- alterations to the structure or means of escape of the building
- home improvements like a bathroom in a new location, certain electrics, windows, doors, and re-roofing. (some of these can be covered by a competent persons scheme)
You must get approval before you start work otherwise you may have to fix any issues we find at your own expense. Any notifiable work carried out prior to a valid application being submitted will be classed as unauthorised work and will require a retrospective application called a regularisation.
View information on building regulation supplementary information and explanatory notes.
View more information on building regulation approval on the GOV.UK website.
Apply for building regulation approval
The difference between building control and planning permission
Building control and planning are 2 separate services which deal with different aspects of the construction process.
In simple terms, planning will be you telling the planning department how the building will look and compliance with the Town and Country planning Acts.
Building control will be you telling us how you will build it, what with, and how it will comply with the current building regulations.
Building control are a regulated profession and planning are also a specialised service and therefore each service cannot ethically give advice on each other’s service.
There will be instances where planning permission is not required such as permitted development. This does not mean you will not require building regulations approval. There are also times where you will need planning permission, but there may be an exemption from building regulations.
If you are unsure if you need building regulations approval, please contact us on on 01772 625467.