When you do not need approval
For some building work you do not need to apply for building regulations approval.
Read about exemptions on the Planning Portal website.
You can also download our guidance on exemptions.
Types of domestic work exempt from building regulations
Detached buildings
A detached single storey building can be exempt if it:
- has a floor area not exceeding 30m2
- contains no sleeping accommodation and is a building no point of which is less than 1 metre from the boundary of its curtilage
- is constructed substantially of non-combustible material, like a detached, brick built garage
- or it’s detached building, having a floor area not exceeding 15m2, that contains no sleeping accommodation (like a greenhouse or garden shed)
Extensions
The extension of a building by adding at ground level:
- a conservatory, porch, covered yard or covered way, or carport open on at least two sides
- where the floor area does not exceed 30m2
Porches or conservatories
Any glazing should meet the requirements of the building regulations: glazing in most doors and adjacent windows and in windows with a cill level less than 800mm above floor level should be in a safety glass.
Electrical installation in an exempt conservatory is still controllable under building regulations and requires notification.
Conservatories must have a transparent or translucent roof, be unheated and remain separated from the existing house.
Exemptions for disabilities
Charges do not apply to parts of the building used solely by people with a disability, including areas requiring wheelchair access.
Read about disability exemptions regulations on legislation.gov.uk.
Exemptions and planning permission
Even though your proposals may be exempt from the building regulations you may still require planning permission or consent.
Other information
For further information about building control exemptions, email buildingcontrol@hounslow.gov.uk.
