How do I apply for Building Regulations Approval?

There are two main ways in which you can make an application for Building Regulation approval. These are Full Plans and Building Notice. The overall cost of the application will be the same whichever route you choose to use.

Full Plans – Typically this type of application is used for larger domestic building works, e.g. extensions and loft conversions.  The 'full plans' method of application is the safest way to make an application, however, it is more involved as it requires the submission of detailed drawings that show a great deal of technical information, such as construction materials, drainage specification, structural calculations, means of escape in case of fire and ventilation.  

The principal advantage of using this method is that once your plans have been approved your builder can work to those drawings without fear of contravening the regulations during the building process.

Your Building Regulation Approval certificate is valid for three years from initial submission date.

A Full Plans submission requires you to provide a detailed set of plans together with a specification of the materials to be used.
Information that generally be shown on the plan includes:

•    Elevations
•    Floor Layouts
•    Detailed sectional views of the proposed construction
•    Site location plan
•    Adequate building specification details
•    Drainage details

You may also need to submit calculations for:

•    Structural members i.e. Steel beams/lintels
•    Thermal insulation values
•    Fire Safety items

The information will then be checked to ensure that the details given comply with Building Regulation requirements.

When checked your proposals will either be approved or you will be notified of any alterations that may be required to the plans. When these have been received and found to be satisfactory the plans will then be approved.

You may submit the application yourself or employ an agent/architect to act for you. If an agent is employed all correspondence will be directed to him/her.

Building Notice - The 'Building Notice' procedure is suitable when small works are planned and therefore it is not necessary to prepare detailed plans. As no formal approval is given, a good working relationship between the Builder and the Building Control Officer is essential to ensure the work achieves compliance with the Building Regulations.

Together with your application a location plan should be provided where the building is shown relative to neighbouring roads.
The Building Control Officer can if he/she deems it necessary request structural details and calculations for the work.
Types of work suitable for a 'Building Notice' include:

•    Garage conversions.
•    Alterations to domestic drainage.
•    Removal of load-bearing wall.
•    Insertion / alteration of door or window opening.
•    Replacement windows.