■How can I arrange for a Surveyor to inspect my building works?
If you want works relating to a Building Regulation inspected just call (01225 417517 or email building_control@bathnes.gov.uk by 10am and we can arrange for a visit the same day .
■How long does a Building Regulation Approval last for?
Once your application has been approved, you have three years in which to commence the works. Once works have commenced (and we have carried out a commencement inspection) the application will last indefinitely.
■What happens if the Building Regulations are updated before I complete my project?
Only the Building Regulations in force at the time your application was made will apply.
■Can I obtain a copy of the Building Regulations documents?
The Building Regulations and associated guidance (Approved Documents) can be viewed at:
i. public libraries;
ii. online at www.planningportal.gov.uk;
iii. purchased from the online bookshop www.tsoshop.co.uk
■Do I need Building Regulation Approval for a carport?
No, as long as it is built at ground floor level, the floor area does not exceed 30m2 internal floor area and it must be open on at least two sides.
■Can you recommend a Builder or Architect?
As a local authority we are unable to do this; however, we have provided links to the National Federation of Builders, The Federation of Master Builders and the Royal Institute of British Architects on our Useful Links page.
■Do I need Building Regulation Approval for an attached garage?
If the garage is to be attached to the main house then yes because it is classed as an extension.
■Do I need Building Regulation Approval to make repairs or internal alterations to a building?
It is very likely that you will need permission to make alterations to your home or any other building. Building regulations are very likely to apply if your project will:
i. Involve alterations to the structure of the building (e.g. the removal or part removal of a load bearing wall, joist, beam or chimney breast);
ii. Will affect escape or other fire precautions either inside or outside the building;
iii. Will affect access or facilities for disabled people.
On the assumption that the regulations do apply, all the work involved in the alteration must comply with all the appropriate requirements.
Whilst some minor works may not require approval it is best to contact us to make sure. Please also be aware that if you live in a Listed Building even the most minor of alterations may require Listed Building consent.
■Do I need Building Regulations Approval for replacement windows?
Replacement windows are subject to building regulation approval. This does not include replacing broken panes of glass or repairing sections of the frame, it is the complete replacement of the frame and glazing.
If you are considering having your windows, and glazed doors, replaced you need to determine whether the company you are using is registered with a Competent Persons Scheme (CPS) such as FENSA, CERTASS or BSi.
If you are considering using a contractor who is not registered under a CPS scheme an application will be required and the work will be inspected. There is a standard all inclusive fee for this type of application.
■Do I need Building Regulations approval to convert my garage?
If you are going to construct a new doorway/opening then yes you do. If you will be making the room habitable then yes it will need permission too because you will have to put thermal insulation in and ventilation to the roof which will have to comply with part F and L of the Building Regulations.
■Do I need Building Regulations Approval to convert my loft?
If you will be making the room habitable then yes it will need permission too because you will have to put thermal insulation in and ventilation to the roof which will have to comply with part F and L of the Building Regulations. We have a guide to loft conversions on our website available to assist you with applications for loft conversions.
■Do I need Building Regulations Approval to Insert Insulation into a Cavity Wall?
The regulations specifically define this as 'Building Work' so yes you would. They apply because we need to make sure that the insulation material is suitable for the wall construction and, in the case of some foam insulates, the risk of formaldehyde gas emission is safely assessed. However, the application is normally dealt with by the insulation installer.
■Do I need Building Regulations Approval to Install WCs / Showers / Washbasins or Sinks?
If the installation of the fitting or fittings will involve alterations to, or new connections to, a drainage stack or an underground drain then yes they do. You should also check with us to find out how much information is required about the fittings you intend to use. If you employ an installer registered with a relevant Competent Persons Scheme, you will not need to involve the Building Control Service.
■Do I Need Building Regulations Approval to install or replace a hot water cylinder?
In both unvented and vented systems the answer is yes. For either type of system your installer should leave you with a completed installation record and commissioning certificate.
■Do I Need Building Regulations Approval to install, replace or alter a fuel burning appliance?
All Gas appliances
Yes, but if you employ a Gas Safe registered installer with the relevant competencies to carry out the work, you will not need to involve the Building Control Service. (Please note the Gas Safe Register is the new hallmark for gas safety in Great Britain and replaces the CORGI gas registration scheme as the official gas safety body).
Oil appliances
Yes, but if the building is no more than three storeys and you employ an installer registered with a relevant Competent Persons Scheme such as OFTEC (Oil Firing Technical Association Limited) to carry out the work, you will not need to involve the Building Control Service.
■Do I need Building Regulations Approval to underpin foundations?
The regulations specifically define this as 'Building Work' so yes you will. The requirements will be applied so as to ensure that the underpinning will stabilise the movement of the building. Particular regard will need to be given to the effect on any sewers and drains near the work.
■Do I need Building Regulations approval to build or alter a garden or boundary wall?
No, but you should, of course, make sure that the work is done safely to avoid accidents. You may however require Planning Permission or Listed Building Consent so please contact the Planning Section using the details below.