Building Regulations Introduction

Even if you have planning consent for a building project, you will almost certainly need Building Regulation consent before you can actually start work.

These regulations exist to ensure the health and safety of the occupants of a building. They apply to new buildings, extensions and alterations to existing buildings, and they cover:

• structure
• fire safety
• site preparation and resistance to moisture
• toxic substances
• resistance to the passage of sound
• ventilation
• hygiene
• heat producing appliances
• stairways, ramps and guards
• conservation of fuel and power
• access and facilities for disabled people
• glazing materials and protection

Applying for Building Regulation consent

For most building projects you have two choices when applying for Building Regulation consent. The fees for both are exactly the same. See Building Regulations Charges for charges information.

• You can submit two sets of full building plans and a blue 'Full Building Plans' application form to the Council, with the plan examination charge that the Council is legally obliged to impose. Once work has started, we will send you an invoice for the inspection charge.
• Alternatively, you can submit a site location plan (which simply shows where your property is) with a pink 'Building Notice' application form. Full payment is required when the application is submitted.

For more information see Building Regulations - Apply for Approval.

Building Inspections

Once you have made a Building Regulation application, the law requires that you, or your builder, contact the Council's Building Control Surveyor. When you start building he or she will inspect the work as it goes forward.

When your work is finished, you must arrange for the Council's Surveyor to make a final inspection. If your builder has not made the necessary arrangements, it is your responsibility to do so. All it takes is a telephone call to Customer Services!

Information and advice

For more information and advice please look at the links on this page or contact Customer Services.

Last Updated

02 June 2008

Contacts

Page last updated on 02 June 2008