Do I Need to Apply for Building Control Approval?
The following is a list of the obvious proposals that would require Building Regulation approval. It is important to note that other proposals may require approval If you are unsure, please telephone our helpline on 0161 770 4122, where we will be pleased to help.
- The majority of works relating to non-domestic buildings, or conversions to non-domestic buildings
- New houses and flats
- Conversions of buildings to houses/flats
- The majority of domestic extensions
- Garage/outbuilding conversions to form a room
- Loft conversions
- The installation of roof lights or dormer windows
- Internal structural alterations, such as the removal of a load bearing wall or a chimney breast
- Some electrical alterations (domestic properties only)
- Some re-rendering and internal plastering works
- The formation or widening of an opening in a load bearing wall
- The installation of baths, showers, w.c.’s which involve new drainage or waste plumbing
- Relocation of staircases
- The installation of a septic tank
- Replacement windows (where non-domestic, or where not installed by a ‘FENSA’ approved installer on domestic properties)
- The construction of new chimneys or flues, or the replacement of flue linings
- The underpinning of existing foundations
- Re-roofing
- The installation of new heating appliances (other than electric) and subject to certain exceptions
- Installation of cavity wall insulation
When is Building Regulation approval not required?
Not all building works and operations require approval under the Building Regulations. (Please remember that Planning permission may still be necessary!)
- Porches used purely as an entrance area, less than 30m2 floor area, separated from the remainder of the dwelling with a standard front door.
- Conservatories less than 30m2 floor area, with a transparent roof and over 50% of the external walls glazed, and separated from the remainder of the dwelling with closing doors (approval may be required for the installation of new doors leading into the conservatory)
- Detached garages less than 30m2 floor area, which are either constructed of non-combustible material, or are at least 1 metre away from the boundary.
- Any detached building, with a floor area less than 15m2, which contains no sleeping accommodation.
- Replacement windows, if in relation to a domestic property installed by a FENSA approved installer.
- Domestic electrical alterations, where undertaken by a person/firm qualified to self-certify their own work under ‘The Competent Person Scheme’.
- Carports open on at least two sides, less than 30m2 floor area
- Garden walls and fences
- Many agricultural buildings
Even if you think that the works are exempt, we would always advise you to consider writing in to Building Control for written confirmation, to avoid confusion and delays during any future sale of the property. Building Control are happy to facilitate such requests.