Building Regulations
What Are Building Regulations?
Building Regulations are designed to set standards for the design and construction of buildings in the UK. These standards are used to protect the health and safety of people in or about those buildings and also include other requirements such as the provision of facilities for disabled people.
What is the Difference Between Planning Permission and Building Regulations?
Building Regulation approval relates to how a building should be constructed whereas planning permission relates to whether a development should be permitted to go ahead or not.
Do I Need to Apply?
Anybody wishing to carry out building work that is subject to Building Regulations is required by law to ensure that all work complies with the latest regulations while also seeking approval from a Building Control company. For example these works might include extending an existing building, or even removing internal load-bearing walls. Below is a common list of works requiring Building Regulations.
Any exterior work or internal alterations which will affect a load bearing wall, joist, beam or chimney breast. Or, which will affect access to a property. These may include:
House extensions (including those relating to garages, basements, roof balconies or terraces)
Conversions (such as garage conversions, loft conversions or the subdivision of a property)
Creation of ensuite facilities
Cavity wall installation
Replacement of floors (but not flooring) or underpinning to foundations.
Electrical safety. For example, new fittings (such as fuse boxes or plugs), change electrics in a bathroom or shower area or undertake any work which requires new electrical wiring.
Installation of heating appliances. For example, if you install or replace an existing boiler, add extra radiators or install a fuel burning appliance.
Fire hazards. For example, any construction work requiring an escape route to comply with fire safety standards.
Plumbing. For example, if you wish to install a new bathroom or kitchen.
Ventilation. For example, all new windows, doors or fixed air-conditioning systems.
Other. For example, any work which affects sound resistance, hygiene, drainage and waste disposal or conservation of fuel and power.
What Happens If I Don’t Apply or Comply?
If you fail to apply for Building Regulations approval or your building does not comply with the latest standards, you could be served with an enforcement notice for non-compliance.
Have further questions? Why not speak to our friendly and helpful team today to find out more about the latest Building Regulations and whether they apply to your project.