Building Regulations explained
As a homeowner, before you construct or change a building in certain ways you must check if you need building regulations approval.
The building regulations are detailed technical standards set down by the Government to make sure homes are built to reasonable standard and are safe, warm and dry. They also cover areas such as fire safety, energy consumption and accessibility.
Building regulations approval is separate from planning permission and you might need both – the latter will depend on the scale and extent of your project. (You will need to seek separate advice regarding planning permission separately on the website) Building regulations relate to how a building should be constructed and to ensure new buildings meet specific health and safety, welfare and sustainability standards. Most building work, including all types of extensions and conversions, will need to comply with the building regulations. There are some minor works that can be carried out in the DIY sphere without the need to inform your local authority building control team (although the use of competent persons is recommended). These include, most repairs, replacements and maintenance work (except replacements of combustion appliances, oil tanks, electrical fuse boxes or glazing units, which do need to be notified), additional power points or lighting points or any other alterations to existing circuits (except around baths and showers), like for like replacements of baths, toilets, basins or sinks. Other types of building work can be‘ exempt’ from the building regulations. These include sheds, summerhouses, conservatories, porches, satellite dishes, detached garages and carports. However, before these can be declared ‘exempt ‘they have to meet certain criteria. You can check the chatbot for these criteria but if you are unsure proposals for such buildings can be checked over by your local authority building control team. Unless the work you propose is exempt, you will need approval from the local authority building control team. Further guidance is also on the planning portal and LABC web
