Building regulations set minimum standards. Most work requires approval. An architect prepares drawings while a principal designer manages health and safety compliance.
Required for most building work including extensions, structural alterations, changes of use, replacement windows, electrical and plumbing work, and heating systems.
Two routes: full plans application (drawings checked before work starts) and building notice (notify and inspect during construction). Full plans is recommended for anything beyond the simplest work.
The regulations cover structural stability, fire safety, moisture resistance, thermal performance, ventilation, electrical safety, drainage, accessibility and sound insulation.
Building control inspects at key stages. A completion certificate is issued when satisfactory. This certificate is important for future property transactions.
Planning controls what and where. Building regulations control how. Both may be needed.
With building notice you can start after giving notice. With full plans, wait to avoid non-compliant work.
The local authority can take enforcement action. Lack of approval causes problems when selling.
Structural alterations, electrical work and fire safety changes usually do. Cosmetic changes do not.