Knowing when to involve Building Control is an important part of planning a construction project. Whether you're undertaking a home extension, converting an existing building or developing a commercial property, understanding your Building Regulations responsibilities early can help avoid delays and complications further down the line.
In most cases, Building Control should be considered during the early planning stages of a project, before building work begins.
Why is it important to involve Building Control early?
Getting Building Control involved at the right stage helps ensure that the proposed work is considered against the relevant Building Regulations requirements.
Early involvement can help identify potential compliance issues, clarify what information and documentation may be needed and establish how the project will be assessed and inspected.
Leaving Building Control until work is already underway can make it more difficult to address certain issues, particularly where important elements of construction have already been covered up.
At what stage should you contact Building Control?
Ideally, you should consider Building Control as soon as the scope of your project begins to take shape.
This may be while you're:
Developing initial design proposals.
Working with an architect or other design professional.
Preparing technical drawings and specifications.
Obtaining quotations from contractors.
Planning a programme of construction work.
The earlier Building Control is considered, the more opportunity there is to identify relevant requirements before they affect the construction programme.
Does every construction project need Building Control?
Not every building project requires Building Regulations approval. However, many common types of building work are subject to the Building Regulations.
Examples can include:
New buildings and extensions.
Loft and garage conversions.
Structural alterations, including removing load-bearing walls.
Changes to the use of an existing building.
Certain alterations to drainage, ventilation, heating and electrical installations.
Commercial developments and alterations.
Some work may be exempt, while other work may need to comply with specific requirements even where a formal application is not necessary. The position will depend on the nature and scope of the proposed work.
It is always sensible to establish the requirements before starting.
What happens if Building Control is contacted after work has started?
If work begins without the appropriate Building Regulations procedures being followed, this can create difficulties.
Depending on the circumstances, it may be necessary to investigate completed work, arrange additional inspections or provide further evidence to demonstrate compliance.
Where work has already been carried out without the required approval, a regularisation application to the Local Authority may be an option in certain circumstances. This is separate from the normal application process.
Contacting Building Control before work starts helps reduce the risk of these situations arising.
Which Building Control route should you use?
For eligible building work in England, you may be able to use either the Local Authority Building Control service or a Registered Building Control Approver (RBCA).
A Registered Building Control Approver can provide Building Control services for eligible projects, including plan assessments and site inspections, with the aim of assessing whether the work complies with the applicable Building Regulations.
Certain higher-risk building work is subject to a separate regulatory process through the Building Safety Regulator.
The appropriate route will depend on the type and location of the project.
How can Delta Building Control help?
At Delta Building Control, we support clients, developers, contractors and design professionals with Building Control services across Yorkshire.
We can help establish the appropriate Building Control route for your project, review the information provided and carry out inspections at the relevant stages of construction.
Whether you're planning a residential or commercial development, involving Building Control early can help you approach your project with greater clarity.
Planning a project?
Contact Delta Building Control to discuss your requirements and find out how we can support you.
