Building Regulations

What is it?

This is a set of firm guidelines defined by the government to ensure the safety, condition and correct usage of new buildings, conversions, renovations and extensions. These statutory regulations seek to ensure that the policies set out in the relevant legislation are carried out.

Building regulations are divided into 14 categories (parts), and are updated on a regular basis.

These categories are:

Structural safety
Fire Safety
Resistance to contaminants and moisture
Toxic Substances
Resistance to sound
Ventilation
Sanitation, Hot Water Safety and Water Efficiency
Drainage and waste disposal
Heat producing appliances
Protection from falling
Conservation of fuel and power
Access to and use of buildings
Glazing safety
Electrical safety

If you already have Planning permission and only need building regulation services. Skyline architecture is more than happy to help. Feel free to contact us for a free no obligation quote. Emailing plans is the preferred method – with sight of these we can give the best advice, specific to your project, either by phone or in writing.

Work that does not need Building Regulations approval

Some small projects and renovations do not need Building Regulations approval such as:

Most repair work, replacements and maintenance work (except heating systems, oil tanks, fuse boxes and glazing units)

Some garden sheds, summer-houses and carports are exempt from approval as long as they fall within the guidelines which are generally based around size (floor area and height)

Like for like replacements of baths, toilets, basins and sinks

For more comprehensive information on what is exempt from Building Regulations approval please click here

How it’s done

1. Choose a Building Control Inspector

1. Choose a Building Control Inspector

“..Also known as Building Inspectors, District Surveyors or Building Control Surveyors, they are impartial building professionals with in-depth local knowledge of site conditions and issues and expertise in the Building Regulations, British and European standards and codes of practice that the new building must comply with”

Building control teams generally carry out the following duties: plan checking, site inspections, dealing with demolitions and dangerous structures, administration of competent persons schemes and certificated work

With the above in context, these inspectors / surveyors can either come from the Local Authority (council’s building regulations department) or private companies which can be chosen as an alternative to appointing the Local Authority. The private company are also Approved Inspectors that will examine the submissions, carry out site visits, and clarify the works in the same way as the Council’s Building Control Department (Full Plans). There fees tend to be slightly higher than the Council’s fees, however their appointment can speed up how soon work can begin on site and resume if amendments are needed.

Skyline Architecture has a good working relationship with the LABC (Local Authority Building Control) that deals with all the local authority building control teams in England and Wales and also a private approved building control company that we would be happy to recommend if requested.
2. Submitting your Building Regulations application.

2.Submitting your Building Regulations application.

You can apply to your local building control authority in one of two ways:

a) Full Plans application: For the majority of these applications the building control team will check and ‘approve’ the plans before work starts. You’ll need to submit all drawings, specifications and, where necessary, calculations for structure, thermal, water consumption and so on. Submitting this type of application reduces the risk of contravening the regulations and helps avoid costly delays.

b) Building Notice: The application is ‘accepted’ when the building regulations have been met on site. However there is a risk with this option as no plans are required and work carried out may need altering or upgrading to meet requirements.

So if you are unsure, the Full Plans route with an approved plan will give you the assurance that you won’t be taking a risk on site.

You then deposit your plans and calculations which are fully checked and approved prior to commencement so you have the confidence to obtain quotes, appoint contractors and order materials based on an agreed scheme with no nasty surprises.

“….at Skyline Architecture we can prepare the Building Regulations submission for you, liaise with Building Control or the Approved Inspector, and respond to any project requirements by your builder during construction. Please note that the services of a Structural Engineer are often required at this stage.”
3. The final visit

By this stage numerous visits will have taken place. The Approved Inspector will make sure the completed project meets all guidance defined by the Secretary of State with the practical criteria (with respect to the requirements of Schedule 1 and Schedule 7 of, the Building Regulations 2010).

Once the surveyor is happy with the work they’ll issue you with a completion certificate. This is an important document used by solicitors/personal search agents when you come to sell the property and by mortgage lenders and property insurers.

Once this is completed, it’s time to celebrate your victory!

Fast & Effective

“We’ve just received the news that the planning application for our extension has been approved with the help of Skyline! They managed the whole process for us which included a pre application. Pleased we listened to your advice and appointed you in the first place. Thank you!”

Mr & Mrs Singh

Erection of Double Storey Side Extension and Internal layout alterations

Great Glen, Leicester

Above & Beyond

“I would highly recommend Skyline Architecture, they really went the extra mile in my project and interacted with the council on my behalf throughout the whole process. Well done on providing such a seamless experience from which I initially perceived as overwhelming. Kindest regards to the team”

Max

Loft Conversion and Rear Dorma

Oakham, Rutland

Personal Approach

“They are an honest planning company and have a very personal approach. They really strive to accomplish your goals. Adam did a fantastic job in translating all our ideas into a working design. Will definitely use you guys again. Great result! ”

Solly & Kam

Change of use from (A1) Retail premises to Restaurant with rear extraction system (A5)

Wigston, Leicestershire

They are realistic, reasonable and professional

“After an unfavourable response from a pre-application to the council, Ahmed advised that it would be safer to apply for our new build in two stages. He was absolutely spot on, we had both applications approved first time. I really credit the swiftness in amending drawings and complying with both the planning officers and us as the same time.. Despite my persistence I was never made to feel too demanding. They are realistic, reasonable and professional”

Dr. W Isaac

Demolition of Bungalow; Construction of 4 bed house, proposed annex and discharge of conditions

Wigston, Leicester