Building regulations

Our Building Control Team ensures that the building control system is adhered to.

We make sure that buildings are:

• Structurally sound
• Safe in the event of fire
• Have adequate drainage, ventilation and toilet facilities
• Are accessible for disabled persons
• Are energy efficient to heat and light

Our dedicated officers are available:

• Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 5pm - either in their offices or by appointment at your home or business address.

If you need to talk something through with us before, during or after your building project then please don't hesitate to get in touch.

We will:

• Provide a quick, friendly and accurate response,
• Deal speedily and courteously with Building Regulation Applications,
• Provide an inspection team who will work with you on your building project, issuing completion certificates when necessary,
• Undertake site inspections requested before 10am the same day.

Building regulations are constantly reviewed to meet the growing demand for better, safer and more accessible buildings. Any changes necessary are brought into operation after consultation with all interested parties.

Building regulations are separate from planning permission.

The regulations apply to most building work, with a few exemptions (see below)​

Do I Need Building Regulations?

Exempt buildings

Certain buildings are considered by the Department for Communities and Local Government to be exempt from the requirements of the Building Regulations.

These are generally those types of buildings where the application of the regulations would be unduly onerous. In such cases you may build without approval under the Building Regulations.

Even though your proposals may be exempt from the Building Regulations you may still require Planning Permission. This has to be applied for separately and advice should be obtained from the Development Control.

It would be advisable before proceeding to notify the Council (both Building Control and Development Control) with written details and sketches of your proposals. They will then confirm if the work is exempt and you could keep that with the details of your property for future reference; in the event of proof being required upon the sale of your property, or for any other reason.

Examples of exempt buildings

The examples given below are for illustration purposes only, and you should contact this department for confirmation.

• Porches
• Carports
• Conservatory
• Covered yard or covered way
• Extensions or alterations to an existing exempt building
• Small detached building which contains no sleeping accommodation

Please go to the Planning Portal Interactive House that shows common situations that may or may not require a Building Regulations Application.

If you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact us.