Whether you’re making alterations to an existing structure or beginning a new construction project, you’ll need to obtain Building Regulations approval before you can begin any construction work on site. Read on to find out what building regulations drawings are, what they cover and how to complete them.
What Are Building Regulations
Building regulations govern the safety and security of any building. They regulate everything from fire prevention to accessibility or the technical requirements for your walls and windows. The government publishes a list of “approved documents” that define the national standards that every construction project is required to meet.
Why do you need Building Regulation drawings?
Your local council will need to approve your plans for any construction, so it’s up to you to provide them with the technical information that explains your project.
Structural calculations
Key details of the project like the stair, the new window, or how roof and facade fit together. In some cases, you’ll even need to provide a list of the products you’re planning to use.
Fire strategy
If you’re making changes to the internal layout, your drawings may also contain a fire strategy, which explains how you’d respond to a fire.
What kind of projects need Building Drawings?
In short, everything you build needs to be approved by building control. For most renovations, building regulations are required. Whether you’re replacing an exterior wall, window or stair, you’ll need to provide detailed information about your project. New buildings must also meet national standards. The only projects that don’t require building regulations approval include greenhouse constructions, sinks and bathroom and shower replacements.
What Are Types Of Building Regulation Approval?
When it comes to approval regarding building regulations, there are two main types:
- A full plan application
- A building notice application
Depending on your timeframe and your risk tolerance, you can apply for both.
Retrospective application
You can apply for a retrospective application if you’ve already commenced or even completed some works without obtaining proper consent. This is known as a regularisation application, but it is not recommended.
Full plan application
A full plan application must be submitted before work commences on site. This means you must provide your local authority with a complete set of information for them to review and approve. This ensures any potential problems are resolved before construction commences, which can save you time and money in the long run as your builder works from approved plans. A full plan approval notice will be valid for 3 years from the date you deposit the plans.
On the other hand, a building notice allows you to commence work on site immediately even before receiving any approval. Instead, you will need to provide a much reduced set of information. This may include your engineer’s calculations, as well as some plans.
Once construction commences, a site inspector will regularly inspect the works. The risk is that you may not know that the works are incorrect until they’re inspected. A notice is valid for 3 years from the date it is submitted.
When are the building plan drawings required?
Typically, you’ll apply for building regulations approval once you’ve received planning permission. As previously mentioned, if you’re applying for a full permit, this will begin before construction begins. If, however, you’re only applying for a ‘building notice’, then you’ll be able to begin construction before you receive an approval.
