You must check if you need approval before you construct or change buildings in certain ways. Building regulations approval is different from planning permission. You might need both.
You might also need building regulations approval for many alteration projects, including if you plan to:
- replace fuse boxes and connected electrics
- install a bathroom that will involve plumbing
- change electrics near a bath or shower
- put in a fixed air-conditioning system
- replace windows and doors
- replace roof coverings on pitched and flat roofs
- install or replace a heating system
- add extra radiators to a heating system
Work that doesn't need approval
Certain buildings and building works do not require a formal application, this is generally because they are small, un-habitable, low risk, sheds or controlled by other legislation.
Exempt projects
You don't need building regulations approval for some exempt projects, including:
- most repairs, replacements and maintenance work (except heating systems, oil tanks, fuse boxes and glazing units)
- new power and lighting points, or changes to existing circuits (except around baths and showers)
- like-for-like replacements of baths, toilets, basins and sinks
Self certified projects
Some work can be self certified without the need to submit a building notice, if the person undertaking the work is suitably accredited as a 'competent person'. Find out more on our Work that can be self certified page
Getting advice
You can check if you need building regulations approval using the Planning Portal website.
