Building regulations FAQs

Which work is controlled?

For Building Regulation purposes, the term “building work” means any of the following:

1. The erection or extension of a building.
2. The provision or extension of a controlled service or fitting in or in connection with a building.
3. The material alteration of a building, or a controlled service or fitting.
4. Work required by regulation 6 (requirements relating to material change of use).
5. The insertion of insulating material into the cavity wall of a building.
6. Work involving the underpinning of a building.
7. Work required by regulation 4A (requirements relating to thermal elements).
8. Work required by regulation 4B (requirements relating to a change of energy status).
9. Work required by regulation 17D (consequential improvements to energy performance).

Do I need Building Regulation approval to build an extension?

Yes, unless the extension is exempt, e.g. porch or conservatory. If in doubt, return the Exempt Building Works enquiry form and we can then determine whether a submission is required.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to convert my loft into a room?

Yes. See the leaflet on loft conversions, available to download as a pdf file from the guidance and information page.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to convert my garage into a habitable room?

Yes, even if it is only a store or hobbies room.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to make internal alterations within my house?

Yes, if the alterations are of a structural nature e.g. the removal or part removal of a load bearing wall, or removal of part or the whole of a chimney, or if they effect fire safety e.g. changed layouts, etc.

Generally, if the alteration involves the insertion of a beam or lintel or will effect the stability of the building then the alteration is a structural one. If you are unsure if the alteration will require approval then seek the advice of an expert or contact us.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to install cavity insulation into my house?

Yes, but if you use an approved installer they will generally submit a Building Notice on your behalf as a matter of course.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a detached garage?

No, provided that the garage meets the following conditions:

• It is less than 30 square metres floor area.
• Single storey.
• One metre from any boundary or constructed of non-combustible materials (including the roof).

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a carport?

No, provided the floor area is less than 30 square metres and it is open on at least two sides.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to provide a covered yard or covered way to my house?

No, provided the floor area is less than 30 square metres.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a porch?

No, provided the floor area is less than 30 square metres, it is substantially of clear or translucent materials and is separated from the house by a door. Any glass within critical locations is safety glass.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a conservatory?

No, provided the floor area is less than 30 square metres, it is substantially of clear of translucent materials and is separated from the house by an external quality door. Any glass within critical locations should be safety glass.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a small detached building on my land?

No, provided it contains no sleeping accommodation, is less than 30 square metres, it is single storey and is either more than one metre from the boundary or is constructed of non-combustible materials. A detached greenhouse or shed usually falls within this class of building.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to install new or replacement windows to my house?

Yes, this is a new requirement since 1st April 2002 all owners replacing windows will need to make an application, and the new windows themselves will have to fully meet the requirements of the Building Regulations. Please read Replacement windows to existing dwellings. An application will not be required where a FENSA registered contractor is used.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to carry out repairs to my house?

No, if the repairs are of a minor nature and you are replacing less than 25% of the element like for like. Renovation of a thermal element will require an application. "Renovation" means the provision of a new layer in the thermal elementor the replacement of an existing layer. This would include works to a wall, roof or floor involving more than 25% of the element concerned.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to convert my house into flats?

Yes, this is a change of use. Are you also aware of your legal obligation to provide a separate connection to the water main? Please see Are you converting a property or changing it use? at Bristol Water for further information.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to underpin my house?

Yes, this is a structural alteration.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to construct a boundary wall?

No, not at present. But be aware of the civil requirements of the Party Wall Act. For details visit the Department for Communities and Local Government website.

Do I need Building Regulation approval to install fittings and appliances or carry out drainage work?

All drainage work in connection with a building requires an application (including the installation of a sink or toilet).

• Installation of heating appliances and boilers.
• Self assessment schemes are now available.
• Solid fuel Yes, check if your contractor is registered with HETAS.
• Oil fired Yes, check if your contractor is registered with OFTEC.
• Gas Yes, unless the installation is carried out by a GAS SAFE installer.

What do I do if my development affects a public sewer?

Visit the Wessex Water Developer Services website for further information.

Please contact us if you have a question which we haven't answered here.