Building Regulations help ensure that construction work is safe, energy efficient, accessible and meets the required standards for health and safety. Before carrying out building work, you may need to submit a Building Control application.
The type of application required depends on the nature and complexity of the work being undertaken.
Full Plans Application
A Full Plans application is the most comprehensive form of Building Regulations approval and is recommended for most building projects.
Suitable for:
- New dwellings
- House extensions
- Loft conversions
- Garage conversions
- Commercial projects
- Complex structural alterations
How it works:
Detailed plans, specifications and supporting information are submitted to Building Control before work starts. The proposals are checked for compliance with the Building Regulations and formal approval is issued where appropriate.
Benefits:
- Plans are checked before construction begins.
- Potential issues can be identified early.
- Greater certainty for builders, owners and lenders.
- Useful where structural calculations are required.
Building Notice Application
A Building Notice is a simplified procedure generally used for smaller domestic projects.
Suitable for:
- Internal alterations
- Removal of non-loadbearing walls
- Small extensions
- Replacement drainage
- Domestic refurbishment works
Not suitable for:
- Commercial works.
- Buildings where a Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order consultation may be required.
- Works close to public sewers.
How it works:
No detailed plans are submitted for approval before work starts. The applicant notifies Building Control of the proposed works and inspections are carried out during construction.
Benefits:
- Faster application process.
- Suitable for straightforward domestic projects.
Considerations:
Responsibility remains with the applicant and builder to ensure compliance with the Building Regulations.
Regularisation Application
A Regularisation application is used for unauthorised building work that has already been carried out without Building Regulations approval.
Suitable for:
- Extensions constructed without Building Regulations approval.
- Loft conversions completed without approval.
- Structural alterations carried out without approval.
- Other unauthorised works completed after 11 November 1985.
How it works:
The work is inspected and evidence may be required to demonstrate compliance. In some cases, parts of the construction may need to be exposed for inspection.
Outcome:
Where compliance can be demonstrated, a Regularisation Certificate may be issued.
Reversion Application
A Reversion application applies where a project has been registered with an Approved Inspector or Registered Building Control Approver, and responsibility needs to transfer to the Local Authority Building Control service.
Suitable for:
- Projects where the private building control service is no longer able to continue.
- Developments requiring transfer back to the Local Authority.
How it works:
The Local Authority reviews the project and undertakes further inspections as necessary before assuming responsibility for the work.
Demolition Notice
Most demolition works require notice to be given to the Local Authority under Section 80 of the Building Act 1984.
Suitable for:
- Demolition of buildings or substantial parts of buildings.
- Removal of commercial premises.
- Large-scale demolition works.
Exemptions may apply for:
- Small detached structures below specified size limits.
- Agricultural buildings in certain circumstances.
How it works:
A demolition notice must normally be submitted before work commences. Conditions may be imposed regarding safety, disconnection of services and protection of adjoining properties.
Competent Person Schemes
Some work can be self-certified by installers who are registered with an approved Competent Person Scheme.
Examples include:
- Replacement windows and doors (FENSA, CERTASS).
- Electrical installations (Part P schemes).
- Heating and boiler installations (Gas Safe Register).
- Certain renewable energy installations.
Where works are self-certified, a separate Building Regulations application may not be required.
Applications for Structural Alterations
Building Regulations approval is required where structural changes are proposed.
Examples include:
- Removal of loadbearing walls.
- Installation of steel beams.
- Underpinning works.
- Conversion of buildings.
- Formation of new openings.
Structural calculations prepared by a suitably qualified engineer will normally be required.
For more information on how to apply for Building Regulations visit the LABC Front Door - practical advice on home improvements website.