Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Building Regulations and Planning Permission?
Most people realise that they may need approval for their proposed building work but they do not always understand the difference between Building Regulations and Planning Permission.
Planning Permission deals with the correct use of land, the appearance of buildings, landscaping considerations, highway access and the impact that the development will have on the general environment. If Planning Permission is required it may sometimes be wise to wait until that permission is granted before proceeding to submit a Building Regulation application.
Building Regulations deal mainly with health and safety matters, in and about buildings. Building Regulations are concerned with how a building is constructed with particular reference to:
- Structural stability
- Fire safety
- Site preparation and resistance to moisture
- Drainage
- Toxic substances
- Sound resistance
- Ventilation
- Hygiene
- Drainage and waste disposal
- Heat producing appliances
- Protection from falling, collision and impact
- Conservation of fuel and power
- Glazing safety
- Access and facilities for disabled
Am I required to consult my neighbours about my proposed building work?
Generally there are no requirements in the Building Regulations to consult your neighbours, but it would be sensible to do so. You should be careful that your proposed building work does not interfere with their property as this could lead to bad feeling and possibly civil action for the modification or removal of the work. For example, your work may comply with the Building Regulations but could result in the obstruction or malfunctioning of your neighbour’s boiler flue.
You should note that if your project is subject to the Party Wall etc Act 1996, you must give notice to the adjoining owners under the Act. For more information, view the Communities and Local Government website (under External Link).
When will I need Building Regulation approval?
- Erect, extend or alter a building (unless less than 30m2 - some exemptions).
- Install or extend drainage, sanitary and washing facilities or heat producing appliances.
- Carry out structural alterations, or alterations affecting means of escape in fire or facilities for disabled people.
- Change the use of a building to that of dwelling, flat, hotel, institution or public building.
- Converting a garage to a habitable room.
- Converting a loft to a room.
- Excavating or enlarging an existing basement.
- Replacing windows or installing rooflights (unless the installer is FENSA registered).
- Put a previously exempt building (eg agricultural barn) to a different use.
- Carry out cavity-fill.
- Underpin a building.
- Re-rendering external walls.
- Re-roofing.
Why is the water authority consulted regarding some building works?
If the proposed works involve building within 3 metres of a sewer laid before 1 October 1937 and shown on the Wessex Water Utilities map of sewers, Wessex Water's agreement is required.
What can I do if I have carried out building works without submitting an application?
You could apply for a regularisation application if the works have been carried out since the 1 January 1985.
What is the procedure after submitting a Building Regulation Application?
On submission of an application, it will be checked to ensure that all the necessary documentation and information has been provided for us to carry out our functions. If your application cannot be registered then you will be informed of why and what other information is required to be able to register the application.
When will a completion certificate be issued?
A Completion Certificate or Completion Notice will be issued when the building works associated with either a Full Plans or Building Notice application has been satisfactorily completed.
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