Building regulations are concerned with the actual construction processes of the work, highlighting the elements of how a building is put together, for example, considering if the building has a safe structure.
Standards must be met in the construction of all types of buildings, addressing matters including foundations, damp proofing, fire protection and aiming to protect the health and safety of people who use the property. Building regulations also consider disabled access both into and about the building.

Your plans for the development will be checked to make sure they meet the regulations and the work will also be inspected during the build at key construction stages. If the project meets the regulation requirements, a completion certificate will be issued. This document is important as your solicitor may need it if you decide to sell your property.

You may also need planning approval as well as building regulations approval. (See 'Planning' which also lives under the 'Environment' heading in the navigation menu to the left)

Planning regulations cover the use of land and buildings and the appearance of the scheme, considering whether a development would be appropriate to a particular area. Planning regulations also cover issues relating to conservation areas, Tree Preservation Orders, listed buildings, advertisements, hoardings and signage.

Planning permission aims to protect and improve the quality of the environment. It serves to ensure that the development is well designed, in the correct location and that its effect will not harm the general environment or neighbouring properties. If you sell your property in the future, your solicitor may need a copy of the 'Planning Decision Notice' for any extensions you have had.

There are some instances where a building regulations application would be required and a planning application would not and vice versa.

Building regulations approval is entirely separate from planning permission. Receiving one does not automatically ensure you will receive the other.

Building control explained

In the process of development, whether this be the erection of a new building, extending or altering an existing building, or changing the way a building is used, you will normally need to seek building regulations approval and planning permission.

Building control ensures that buildings are constructed and altered so that they comply with the building regulations, that dangerous structures are made safe, and that demolitions are done in as safe a manner as possible.

The purpose of the regulations are to protect the health and safety of people in and around buildings.  They also deal with conserving energy and with access and facilities for all people.

Building control surveyors administer building regulations.  Our highly qualified and experienced teams of building control surveyors examine and comment on plans for most building work and inspect the work that is in progress.  Their wide knowledge of materials and building methods is available to you at all stages of the building process.

Surveyors also perform a number of other building-related functions including dealing with dangerous buildings, safety at sports grounds and demolition.