Do I need Building Regulations Approval ?

If you are planning to carry out 'Building Work' as defined in Regulation 3 of the Building Regulations, then it must comply with the Building Regulations.

This normally means seeking approval of the work from a Building Control Body although there are certain types of ‘building works’ which are exempt from building regulations.

The Building Regulations are made under powers provided in the Building Act 1984, and apply in England and Wales. The current edition of the regulations is ‘The Building Regulations 2000’ (as amended) and the majority of building projects are required to comply with them. They exist to ensure the health and safety of people in and around all types of buildings (i.e. domestic, commercial and industrial). They also provide for energy conservation, and access to and use of buildings.

Building Regulations is a separate matter from obtaining planning permission for your work. Similarly, getting planning permission is not the same as taking action to ensure that it complies with the Building Regulations.

The Planning Portal (look under 'quick links' on the home page) also provides a handy Building Regulations Explanatory Booklet as well as an Interactive guide to Building Regulations and planning permission.

 Applying for Building Regulations (PDF, 115 Kb)

 Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 88 Kb)

Anyone having construction or building work carried out has legal duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2007 (CDM 2007).

A domestic client does not have to notify the work to the Health and Safety Executive and will not have duties under the CDM 2007 - although those doing the work on their behalf (such as designers or contractors) will. These Regulations will help you ensure that your construction project is safe to build, safe to use and safe to maintain.

For more information on construction regulations please visit the HSE website.