Do I Need Building Control Approval?

This page provides an overview of what types of work the Building Regulations cover.

It does not cover all types of building work - please contact us for confirmation of whether an application is needed.

You may also need to contact the Planning office, to find out if separate planning permission is required.

More detailed advice is available on the Forms & Guidance page in this section and from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's Building Regulations Explanatory Booklet.

Do I need approval....

• to build an extension?
  Yes, unless it is considered to be an exempt building.

• to convert my loft into a room?
  Yes.

• to convert my garage into a habitable room?
  Yes.

• to install cavity wall insulation?
  Yes, but if you use an Approved Installer they will generally submit a Building Notice on your behalf as a matter of course.

• to make internal alterations?
  Yes, if the alterations are of a structural nature or affect the fire resisting elements, the removal or part removal of a load bearing wall, or removal of part of a chimney. Generally if the alteration involves the insertion of a beam or lintel or will affect the stability of the building or its fire resistiance or means of escape, then the alteration will require an application.

• to construct a detached garage?
  Yes, unless certain conditions are satisfied.

• to construct a carport?
  No, provided its floor area is less than 30m² and is open on at least two sides.

• to construct a covered yard or covered way?
  No, provided the floor area is less than 30m².

• to construct a porch?
  No, provided the floor area is less than 30m² and it covers a door into the house and is at ground level. The porch should not cover a balanced flue outlet and any glazing should meet the requirements for safety glazing.

• to construct a conservatory?
  No, provided its floor area is less than 30m² and it is at ground level. The conservatory should not cover a balanced flue outlet and any glazing should meet the requirements for safety glazing. The separation to the rest of the house should remain and it should not obstruct a means of escape window from an upper room.

• to construct a small detached building on my land?
  Yes, unless certain conditions are satisfied

• to install new or replacement windows?
  Yes, since 1st April 2002, all new or replacement windows, roof-lights and fully glazed doors require approval under the Building Regulations.

• to carry out underpinning?
  Yes.

• to construct a boundary wall?
  No, unless it forms part of a building to which the Building Regulations apply. However good building practice should be followed.

• to carry out repairs to my house?
  No, if the repairs are of a minor nature and you are replacing like for like. This includes replacing felt to a flat roof, re-pointing or replacing a small area of brickwork.
  Yes, if the repair consists of removing a major part of the wall and rebuilding it.  In the case of re-roofing, even if the roof coverings are the same type approval should be sought.

• to install fittings and appliances, or install or alter the position of a toilet or bath?
  No, unless the work involves new or altered drainage, waste pipes or plumbing.

• to install or alter the position of a heating appliance?
  Gas - Yes, unless installed by a CORGI registered installer.
  Solid fuel - Yes
  Oil - Yes

• to install a hot water storage system?
  Yes, if the system is unvented under direct mains pressure.

• to install a velux roof window?
  Yes, this is a structural alteration.

• to convert my house into flats?
  Yes, this is a material change of use for the purposes of the regulations.

• to undertake work to an electrical system?
  Yes, if this is to be undertaken in either a dwelling, flat or associated building.

• to undertake work on a thermal element such as a roof, wall, or floor?
  Yes, if you alter more than 25% of the thermal element.