Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need Building Regulation Approval to:


Do I need Building Regulation Approval to build an extension to my house?

Yes, unless the extension is a garage, carport, covered yard, porch or conservatory within the restrictions further described.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to carry out repairs to my house?


No, if the repairs are of a minor nature. This includes replacing tiles to a roof, repointing and replacing a small area of brickwork.

If the repairs are substantial an application may need to be made, please contact building control for advice.


Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a car port?

No, provided its floor area is 30 square metres or less and it is open on at least two sides.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a conservatory?

No, provided the floor area is 30 square metres or less, its roof is of transparent material and any glazing to the walls meets the appropriate Building Regulation Safety Standards.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a detached garage?

No, provided its floor area is 30 square metres or less and it is built of non-combustible materials.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a porch?


No, provided the floor area is 30 square metres or less and any glazing to the walls meets the appropriate Building Regulation Safety Standards.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to convert my house into flats?


Yes.


Do I need Building Regulation Approval to convert my roof space into a room?

Yes.


Do I need approval to convert my garage into a room?

Yes.


Do I need Building Regulation Approval to erect a fence, gate or wall?

No, but planning permission may be required you should check with  Customer Service Direct  about external links on 0845 606 6067 before proceeding.

Do I need Building Regulation Approval to insert cavity wall insulation?

Yes, but if you use an approved installer, they will generally submit a Building Notice on your behalf as a matter of course.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to install a bath, toilet etc?

Yes.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to install or alter the position of a heating appliance?

  • Gas - Yes, unless the work is undertaken by a person approved under the Gas Safety (Installation and use) Regulations 1998;
  • Oil - Yes; or
  • Solid Fuel - Yes.


Do I need approval to make internal alterations within my house?

Yes in cases where you are removing or altering a structural element or altering the escape route from the house. There may also be other instances where approval will be required, such as the renovation of a thermal element. If in doubt ask.



Do I need Building Regulation Approval to provide a covered yard to my house?

No, provided the floor area is 30 square metres or less.


When can I start work?

Once you have given a Building Notice or submitted a full plans application you can start work after giving the Council 48 hours notice. However, if you commence work before receiving an approval on a full plans application, you will not benefit from the protection provided by a formal approval.


How long does permission last?

Once the plans have been approved, or the Building Notice accepted, the permission lasts three years from the date of submission.



What happens if I do work which does not meet Building Regulations Standards?

If work contravenes the requirements of the Building Regulations the Building Control Surveyor will advise you what is wrong and how the work can be altered. In most cases this brings about a satisfactory resolution of the matter. In the event that the matter is not resolved in this way the local authority may serve a notice requiring the work to be altered or removed. If you fail to comply with the notice the local authority can carry out the work and charge you reasonable costs for doing so. If you fail to comply with the Building Regulations the local authority may also instigate legal proceedings through the magistrates courts who can impose fines of up to £5,000 for each contravention.