What is building control?
Your building project may need building regulations even if it doesn't need planning permission. If this is the case you need to submit an application to building control before you start work.
Apply for building regulations
Our service
We offer a professional service designed to help you throughout your project from the initial design through to completion.
With a comprehensive knowledge of legal requirements and construction, we can provide specialist advice on all aspects of regulation that impact on your project including structural design, fire safety, sustainability and access for people with disabilities.
We can advise you on whether your project will need an application and we can arrange a pre-application meeting to help the design process.
Frequently asked questions and guidance notes
When is a Building Regulation Application required?
Generally all alterations and extensions need building regulation approval, even if they don't need planning permission. For more details, download our guidance note about when you require a building regulation application
What is a full plans application?
A full plans application (sometimes called notification) is when you submit full design details of the proposed building work for approval. These details will be checked and we'll advise you of any necessary changes needed.
When we're happy with the design, we will issue an approval which may have conditions attached. Our surveyor will then inspect the works at various stages during construction.
What is a building notice application?
A building notice application (sometimes called notification) is an application describing the works to be carried out but without the detailed plans. The notice should be accompanied by a location plan and the relevant fee.
Additional design information may be requested by the surveyor but any information provided with the notice will not be checked in advance and no plan approval will be issued. You can start work 48 hours after the application has been accepted. Our surveyors will visit the site at various stages during construction to ensure work complies with the regulations.
Because there are no approved plans it is important that you or your builder are familiar with the building regulation requirements for the project.
This method can only be used for domestic building work and cannot be used where there is a sewer within 3 metres of the building or if the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to the building.
What is a regularisation?
You make a regularisation application when you've carried out unauthorised work and the application is made retrospectively.
For more information download our guidance note on regularisation
Where can I obtain a copy of the building regulations?
A copy of all current legislation and the approved documents that provide practical guidance about how to meet the requirements of the regulations are available here.