Forms, fees and how to apply
Building notice
The building notice route is a simple approach and is particularly suitable for smaller projects such as formation of bathrooms, recovering of roofs, minor structural alterations and small domestic extensions. However, due to the complexity of the work, you are strongly advised to use the full plans method for loft conversions.
A full plans application is required for any work that needs approval under the building regulations, for example, construction of a new building that fronts onto a private street or affects the layout or fire precautions of a building where people work, or construction or extension work that affects a public sewer (generally, within 3m of the building).
Will I get written approval for my proposal?
If you use a building notice you will not receive written approval. The scheme is effectively 'approved' as the work is carried out and a completion certificate is issued when it is finished. To avoid potential difficulties, it is advisable to have full and regular discussions with your building control surveyor during the work. We will be happy to do this as often as you require and it will not result in additional charges. Please note that if the work does not comply with the regulations you may have to alter it at the request of the council.
If you use a full plans application you will receive written approval. Please note that once the scheme has been approved, alterations relating to details in the application cannot be requested by your building control surveyor during the actual works. You may discuss the works with your building control surveyor, at no additional cost.
When do I need to apply?
Your building notice must reach us, with the correct fee and other required information, 48 hours prior to the start of the works.
If you submit a full plans application we are legally required to give you a decision within five weeks of your submission, though this may be extended to two months subject to your agreement. Generally, we aim to make a decision in considerably less time, particularly if we don't require additional information or alterations to the scheme.
With a building notice, major changes may involve an additional fee.
Changes can usually be accommodated under a full plans application. However, major changes may involve an additional fee and, if made after approval, require a fresh application.
How much do I have to pay?
Details of our fees are available via the BC Fee calculator associated link.
Who pays the fee?
This is a matter for you and your agent or builder. However, the applicant (the person on whose behalf the application is submitted) is responsible for ensuring payment is made.
Where can I get the forms?
You can view and download forms from the 'apply for it' section of 'Do it online'.
What if I have already done the work without approval?
In this case, you may be able to apply for a regularisation certificate. See 'I didn't apply for building approval' for further information and 'Forms and fee lists' to view or download the regularisation application form and fee list.
Remember
Whether or not you need building regulations approval, you may need planning permission. You can find information on this via the 'Planning Advice and Information' see also link.
