Frequently Asked Questions: Building control

Building control FAQs

• What is the difference between Planning and Building Control?
• What are the Building Regulations?
• How can I obtain Building Regulation approval for my building work?
• What is FENSA (Fenestration Self Assessment Scheme)?
• Where can I get a copy of the Building Regulations 2000 (as amended)?
• How can I ensure that my proposals comply with the Building Regulations?
  Answer:

  Each part of the Building Regulations is supported by Approved Documents that provide technical guidance on how to meet the regulations. There is no obligation to adopt any of the guidance in the Approved Documents and designers may wish to refer to other documents such as

  • British Standards
  • British Standards Codes of Practice
  • Agreement Certificates 
  • Technical Certificates and Approved Technical Specification
  • Harmonised Standards

  If the guidance in the Approved Document is not followed, it will be for the designer to demonstrate by other means that the Regulations have been satisfied.

• Am I required to inform my neighbours when I make a building regulation application and do they have the right to object to the proposed works?
• How long is the application valid for?
• When can I start work on my proposals?
• What happens if I depart from the approved plans?
• Who makes the Building Regulations?
• When can I contact Building Control staff?