Building Regulations: What You Need To Know

What is building regulations approval?

Building regulations approval is the process of ensuring that your proposed building project meets all the statutory requirements for safety, energy efficiency, and accessibility. The approval process typically involves submitting detailed plans and specifications to your local building authority for review and approval. Once approved, you will be issued a building permit that allows you to proceed with your project.

There are many factors to consider when designing a new building or undertaking a major renovation, and the building regulations approval process is designed to ensure that your project meets all the necessary requirements. The most important thing to remember is that the approval process is there to protect you, your family, and your property; so make sure you take the time to do it right.

Do I need to get building regulations approval for an outbuilding?

If you are planning to build an outbuilding, you will need to get approval from your local building authority. This is because outbuildings are subject to the same building regulations as regular buildings.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, however. If the outbuilding is less than 15 square metres in floor area, or if it is used for storage only, then you will not need approval.

It is always best to check with your local authority before starting any work, to make sure that you are following all the necessary regulations.

What documents do I need to provide for building regulations approvals?

The building regulations approval process can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of the documents you’ll need to provide in order to get approval for your building project.

Building plans: These will need to be drawn up by a qualified architect or surveyor and must show the proposed changes to your property.

Structural calculations: If your project involves any structural work, you’ll need to provide detailed calculations carried out by a qualified engineer.

Energy performance certificate: An energy performance certificate (EPC) is required for all new build properties and certain types of renovation work. This document assesses the energy efficiency of your property and provides recommendations for improvement.

Fire safety certificate: If your project includes any changes to the fire safety provisions in your property, you’ll need to obtain a fire safety certificate from your local authority.

Access statement: An access statement is required if your project includes any changes that could affect the accessibility of your property, such as the installation of a ramp or lift.

How long does it take to process my application?

It can take up to eight weeks to process a building regulations application, depending on the complexity of the project. The local authority will need to assess the plans and drawings to make sure they comply with the relevant building regulations. They may also need to carry out site visits.

Cost of a building regulations application?

The cost of a building regulations application will vary depending on the type and size of the development. For example, a small extension may only cost a few hundred pounds whereas a new build dwelling could cost several thousand.

There are two stages to the process: firstly, the plans need to be drawn up by an architect or surveyor; secondly, the application needs to be submitted to the local authority. The cost of the architect or surveyor will depend on their fee structure, but is likely to be in the region of several hundred pounds.

The local authority will charge a fee for processing the application, which is typically a few hundred pounds. However, if the development is complex, there may be additional charges for things like site visits or specialist reports.

Overall, therefore, the cost of a building regulations application is likely to be in the region of several thousand pounds. However, it is important to note that this is just an estimate – actual costs will vary depending on the specific project.