Make a building regulations application: step by step

Before you start your construction project, you should:

• check if you need building regulation approval
• check if you need planning permission

If you have started construction without getting consent or moved into a property that does not have a certificate, you can get building work certified.

If an application is required, the next step is to decide if you should make an application for approval with full plans or submit a building notice.

Apply for an application for approval with full plans - used for new buildings and extensive building work

Submit a building notice application - used for domestic work and smaller-scale projects

For higher risk buildings:

If your project is for a higher-risk building which has at least 7 storeys or is at least 18 metres in height and either:

• is a hospital or care home
• has at least 2 residential units

You will need to apply for approval for higher risk buildings on the Gov.uk website.

Extensions

View our guidance on extensions for advice on:

• finding experts
• writing a design brief
• which type of application you may need to apply for
• other permission that may be required

When you application has been paid, we'll provide you with an inspection service plan before your start the work.

You will need to notify the Building Control Team on 2 occasions before booking a site inspection:

• at least 2 working days before you intend to start work
• in writing, within 5 working days of the works 'commencing'

Work has 'commenced' when:

• for new build properties, you've built the ground floor level including all foundations and any basement or extensions
• for any other building work, 15% of the planned work has been completed

Notify the Building Control Team when work has started or commenced.

You'll need to book a site inspection.

Once work has finished, you will need to submit to us a completion notification form before you request a completion inspection.

Once inspected, if all standards and requirements are met, we will issue a completion certificate.

If you lose it, you can request a copy of your completion certificate.