Do I need building control approval?

Ensuring that your building project meets the building regulations is crucial for safety, legal compliance and quality assurance. Whether you’re planning a new construction, extension, renovation or conversion, it's essential to adhere to the building regulations.  

Why building regulations matter  

Building regulations set the standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the health and safety of the occupants. Compliance with these regulations help to ensure:  

• Structural stability
• Fire safety
• Energy efficiency
• Sound insulation
• Ventilation and hygiene 

What work needs approval? 

Building regulations approval is necessary for:

• New dwellings
• Extensions
• Structural alterations
• Loft conversions
• Garage conversions
• Change of use
• Demolitions  

If you're unsure whether your project requires building regulations approval, please contact us for guidance, or visit our partnered resource websites to learn more about building control approval:

• LABC Front Door 
• LABC FAQs

What are my responsibilities? 

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015) set out the legal duties for all parties involved in a construction project. The main duty of the client, whether a domestic or commercial client, is to ensure that the project is suitably managed.

Self-certification schemes 

Specific building projects, such as electrical, plumbing and heating installations, do require building regulations, unless they're being done by a registered installer affiliated with the Competent Person Scheme. Installers within the scheme are authorised to self-certify their work and issue a compliance certificate.  

Additionally, the Competent Person Scheme covers the replacement of windows and doors under the governing body FENSA. If the installer isn’t registered with FENSA you WILL need to submit a building control application.