What building regulations cover
Building regulations set minimum standards for structure, fire safety, insulation and energy use, drainage, ventilation, access and safety. They apply to extensions, conversions, new homes and many alterations, even when planning permission isn't needed.
Two ways to apply
- Full plans. Detailed drawings and specifications are checked and approved before work starts. This is the safest route for bigger projects, and is required for some types of work.
- Building notice. You give notice before starting and the work is checked as it goes, without approved plans. It suits small, simple jobs, but carries more risk of changes on site.
You can use the council's building control team or a registered private inspector.
Inspections and completion
Building control inspects at key stages, typically foundations, drainage, structure and insulation, and at the end. When everything is signed off you get a completion certificate. Keep it safe, because buyers' solicitors will ask for it when you sell.
Barn conversions
Converting a barn is a "material change of use", so the whole building has to meet the regulations for a home. That usually means new insulation, fire safety measures, ventilation and drainage, which is why good drawings matter so much on conversions.
Who is responsible?
The person carrying out the work and the owner both have responsibilities to make sure the work complies. With a design and build or fully managed project, we prepare the drawings, make the application and arrange the inspections for you.
Fixed-price planning and build packages
We price design, planning, building regulations and the build as one fixed package, agreed up front from a clear specification. No nasty surprises: the price only changes if you choose to change the job, and we agree any change with you first. How our packages work.
Need building regs drawings?
We prepare building regulations applications as part of our planning and building regs service, and can build the approved scheme.
Quick answers
Do I need building regs if I don't need planning?
Usually yes. Permitted development only removes the need for planning permission, not building regulations.
What is a completion certificate?
The certificate issued by building control when the finished work has been inspected and complies. You will need it when you sell.
Full plans or building notice?
Full plans is safer for most extensions and conversions, as the design is approved before work starts.
Talk to us about your project
Call or text any time, or email us. We're happy to pop round for a no-obligation chat.
We work within roughly 15 miles of our base in Tawstock, including Barnstaple, Bideford, Braunton, Great Torrington, South Molton, Ilfracombe, Fremington, Instow, Northam, Westward Ho!, Appledore, Bishop's Tawton, Swimbridge, Landkey, Chittlehampton, Atherington, High Bickington and Chulmleigh.