The Building Regulations process explained

Local Authority Building Control (LABC)

Although it may seem daunting, the process of making an application is quite simple and can be broken down into the following five stages:

1. Check to see if the work you intend to carry out requires a Building Regulations application

Examples of where an application is required are: extensions, loft conversions and structural alterations.

For further information please see:

2. Make a Building Regulations Application

If an application is required the next step is to decide if you are going to make a Full Plans application or submit a Building Notice, for more information see:

Types of application explained

Complete the appropriate form and submit it to the Authority with any additional information (ie plans, structural calculations) and the appropriate fee.

3. Inform the Authority 48 hours prior to commencing work on site

To do this you will need to contact Building Control.

4. Arrange site visits to allow a Building Control Surveyor to inspect the work as it progresses

The number and type of inspections required depend on the type of work. Minor works generally need fewer inspections than complicated projects. However, you or your builder must tell us 24 hours before the following stages of the work (although 24 hours notice is required in the Building Regulations we will visit the site if contacted before 10am on the day):

commencement of work
excavation of foundations before concreting
foundations when constructed
damp Proof Course when laid
site concrete or floor slab (before being laid)
drains (before backfilling)
drains (after backfilling)
prior to occupation
completion of work

5. The final stage

After the completion inspection and as long as all work meets the requirements of the Building Regulations, either a completion certificate or a confirmation notice (dependent on type of application) will be issued and should be kept for any future property sale.

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