Everything to Know about Getting Building Regulations Approval

Most people working on new builds are aware that they need to acquire planning permission to get the green light to proceed with the project. However, a lesser-known fact that many project managers often overlook is acquiring building regulations approval in South East London. This requires careful consideration of the project lead as acquiring approval for building regulations is yet another stepping stone towards success.

This step is usually taken after acquiring planning permission but before hiring a builder. This blog seeks to explain the most important aspects involved in acquiring building regulations approval. Continue reading to clarify any persistent doubts.   

What is meant by Building Regulations?

When someone is working on a new build, having renovations done or installing a new extension to an existing building, they need to ensure that the changes or construction being carried out meets the present building regulations.

In the case of residential properties, regulations have been set that are meant to ensure that any new build whether involving alteration, extension, conversion or renovation is constructed in a way that is safe, healthy and energy efficient. Regulations are further divided into sets, each dealing with a specific area of construction such as overseeing structural performance, electricity and gas safety, drainage, ventilation and fire precautions.

Planning applications are submitted to gain approval to carry out the planned developments whereas building regulations applications are meant to get the details of the development checked for compliance approval. These can be carried out by either a local building authority or an approved inspector.

Why are Building Regulations Approval Important?

Every construction project is required by the government to apply for building regulations approval to ensure that the new building is designed in a way that is compliant with the Building Regulations and Associated Legislation.

Acquiring building regulations approval is a measure that protects the would-be residents of the property since building regulations are not only designed to oversee the structural integrity of the building but also other quintessential factors like safety, efficiency, energy and sustainability. Hence they are not only for the future residents of the property but the environment as well.

Building Regulations Vs Planning Permission : 

Now let's try to develop a better understanding of the distinction between planning permission approval and building regulations approval. In many cases, it is necessary to acquire both of them but the approval is granted separately. In some cases, building regulations are required but planning permission is not, for example when alterations are being made inside the house or property.

Planning permission is more concerned with the nature of the development and how it fits in with the surrounding township, city or county. Building regulations approval on the other hand is more centered upon the safety and sustainability of the individual property. It is concerned with the structural health of the building and its facilities, for instance, power and fuel conservation.

Changes Introduced to UK Building Regulations :

As of 2022, several changes were introduced to building regulations in England. These changes are meant to bring about improvements in home and building efficiency, taking a step closer towards better energy conservation and zero carbon emissions.

Changes are introduced to parts of the regulations - F, L, O and S. These are known as approved documents and will have a significant impact on the outcome.

The primary changes have been introduced in the following parts:

• Part F - Ventilation: New changes should help improve air quality and ensure the property receives adequate ventilation.
• Part L - Fuel and Power Conservation: The changes will primarily impact the energy efficiency requirements of doors, windows and walls.  
• Part O - Overheating: The latest building regulations are aimed at limiting overheating of properties through the introduction of passive measures, for instance installing shutters over shade and glazing designs in new builds.
• Part S - Electrical Vehicle Charging: New builds should include the installation of electric vehicle charging points.

When do Building Regulations Apply to a Project?

Certain types of home improvements and building work would likely be exempt from acquiring building regulations approval. However, the ones that do require approval may include the following:

• Any major electrical installation. Additions that fit under this category of installations can include; 
• Installing a new bathroom or shower room.
• Installing new electrical cabling.
• Installation of heating appliances.
• Fitting in a new boiler.
• Installing brand new windows or doors which were not previously present.
• Increasing the size of windows and doors.
• Constructing a new garage.
• Constructing a cellar or basement.
• Constructing a new build or rebuilding a new one.
• Altering structures, for instance, knocking weight supporting walls or partitions.
• Adding a new chimney.
• Removing a chimney breast.
• Alterations that might impact the thermal or energy performance of the building.
• Changing the use of the building - from residential to commercial.
• Insulation of cavity walls.

 

How to Apply for Building Regulations Approval :

For any new build or relevant alterations to acquire building regulations approval, their plans can be submitted through the Local Authority Building Control (LABC) or a private building control body. A private approval inspector is then assigned to the project. There are three general ways by which building regulations approval can be attained:

Full Plans: 

This is the most comprehensive approach where the decision can take between five weeks and two months to get communicated. A certificate of construction completion is issued eight weeks after the project has been completed.

Building Notice: 

This type of application is most applicable in the case of smaller projects. Here the project does not require complete approval as is the case with full plans. This means it is possible to start the building construction two days after application submission.

Regularization: 

This form of application is retrospective in nature and is meant to approve or disapprove works that were carried out without consent. Buildings that were constructed after 1985 are eligible for this approach.  

Conclusion : 

Unlike planning permission approval, building regulations do not necessitate the submission of any Planning Permission Drawings in Kent. CB Planning Agent offers a plethora of planning and approval services that can ensure your build is compliant with local building regulations offering you peace of mind during the contraction process.