Building regulations applications
Do I need building regulations approval?
Building regulations are national standards that apply to all types of buildings. They deal with the structural details of building works, and are there to ensure the health and safety of people in and around the building.
If you want to construct or change buildings in certain ways, you need to check if you need approval.
Building regulations approval is different from planning permission. You need to check which one it is you need. You might need both.
Work covered by building regulations
The Building Regulations 2010 cover the construction and extension of buildings. You might also need approval for:
- replacing fuse boxes and connected electrics
- bathroom installations where plumbing is needed
- works to electrics which are near a bath or shower
- fixed air-conditioning systems
- replacement windows and doors
- pitched and flat roof replacements
- installing or replacing heating systems
- adding extra radiators
This is not a complete list, so make sure you do your research before you start your project.
There is more information on what does and does not need approval on the Planning Portal website.
Work exempt from building regulations
- most repairs, replacements and maintenance work, except for heating systems, oil tanks, fuse boxes and glazing units)
- new power and lighting points or changes to existing circuits (except for those near baths and showers)
- replacements of baths, toilets, basins and sinks which are like-for-like
You don't need to get permission if you use someone who is registered with a competent person scheme:
- search the Competent Persons Register to find a tradesperson or to check that your tradesperson belongs to the scheme
- search the Electrical Competent Person Register if you need an electrician to do work on your home
Some buildings are exempt from building regulations - for example, small sheds or greenhouses. There is more information on exempt buildings on the Planning Portal.