Building regulations approval

On this page:

When you need approval
When you do not need approval
How to apply

When you need approval

The Building Regulations 2010 (legislation.gov.uk) cover the construction and extension of buildings. Building control checks that your project meets the requirements of the legislation.

Before you apply

Read the guidance from Local Authority Building Control (LABC) to determine which building regulations apply to your project. LABC represents building control teams in England and Wales. Advice on getting started is available for:

You can also read more about building regulations policy on GOV.UK.

Types of application

You will need to choose a type of application for your building project.

Full plans

Usually used for major projects like new buildings, extensions or alterations to your building, or if your building use is changing. You need to submit full plans of the work you’re planning.

Download a full plans submission form

Building notice

Usually used for smaller projects, including:

chimney breast removal
recovering of roofs
installing a new bathroom
converting your garage to a room
forming a through lounge
replacing windows

You do not need to send plans with your application, but we may ask for more information later. You can start work 48 hours after giving notice.

Download a building notice form

Regularisation

This is where you make a retrospective application for work that’s already completed, but was not approved. You can apply for a regularisation certificate for any unauthorised works started anytime from 11 November 1985.

Before you get a certificate saying requirements have been met, we may need to visit the site and make tests.

Download a regularisation application form

Reversion

To make a reversion application, download our reversion application form.

Fees

Fees will depend on the scope of your project and the type of work. Refer to our schedule of charges and our supplementary charges.

Pay a building control fee

To request a quotation for services for work defined as 'individual assessment' or for works in excess of £150,000, download an individual assessment form.