How long it takes to get building regulations approval and how long it lasts

[edit] Introduction

There are two types of building regulations application:

• Full plans application: Generally on larger, new-build projects, a 'full plans' application will be made, meaning that full details of the proposed building works are submitted for approval before the works are carried out.
• Building notice application: On smaller projects, or when changes are made to an existing building, approval may be sought by giving a 'building notice'. In this case, a building inspector will approve the works as they are carried out by a process of inspection. However, this leaves the client at risk that completed works might not be approved, resulting in remedial costs.

[edit] Full plans application

A decision should be received within five weeks for a full plans application. However, this may be extended to two months by agreement. It is necessary then to give the building control body two working days notice before commencing the works.

It is permissible to begin works before approval has been received, however, if the works are subsequently found not to comply with the building regulations, they may have to be altered or removed.

The approval lasts for three years, within which time the building work must commence, or a fresh application will be required. This can be very important given the speed at which the regulations change, meaning that a building which has been approved, but where construction has not begun, may need to be re-designed to satisfy the new regulations.

Once the construction works have commenced, and the building control body has undertaken a commencement inspection, the approval lasts indefinitely.

A completion certificate should be received within eight weeks of completion of the building work if it complies with the regulations.

[edit] Building notice application

Works under a building notice application may begin as soon as the notice has been accepted. This is usually within two days.

The notice is valid for three years, after which it will lapse if the building work has not commenced. Once the works have commenced, the notice lasts indefinitely.

No completion certificate is issued as no plans have been submitted.

--Harchitine

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Approved documents.
• Approved inspector.
• Building control body.
• Building notice.
• Building regulations.
• Competent person schemes.
• Full plans.
• Local authority.
• The Building Act.
• The difference between planning permission building regulations approval.