Scottish building warrant
The building regulations (or building standards) set out statutory requirements for specific aspects of building design and construction and notification procedures that must be followed when starting, carrying out, and completing building work. The regulations apply to most new buildings and many alterations to existing buildings. Failure to comply with the building regulations can result in a fine and/or an enforcement notice requiring rectification of the works.
In Scotland, Scottish Ministers are responsible for creating building regulations and preparing technical guidance to ensure buildings are safe, efficient and sustainable.
The granting of permission for building regulations compliant work to be carried out is referred to as a 'building warrant' in Scotland. Building warrant applications are made to local authorities.
An application might include:
- A location plan.
- Plans, elevations and sections.
- Construction details.
- Engineer’s calculations.
- Energy rating calculations.
- Additional information depending on the nature and complexity of the project.
Alternatively, design work on aspects such as structure and energy efficiency can be certified by an approved certifier, with each such certificate giving a 10 per cent discount on the building warrant fee. During construction, drainage, heating systems and plumbing work can also be certified as building regulation compliant.
Building warrants are normally decided within 4-6 weeks and are valid for 3 years.
The local authority will carry out inspections during construction. Once construction is completed, a completion certificate (and where appropriate an energy performance certificate) is sent to the local authority who will then inspect the works. If the completed works have not been carried out in accordance with the approved warrant drawings and in compliance with the building regulations, the completion certificate is rejected.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Approved documents.
- Assignation.
- Building regulations.
- CIOB Value of Construction: Scotland report.
- Devolution.
- Government departments responsibility for construction.
- Planning permission.
- Scottish building services certification schemes.
- Scottish building standards.
- Statutory approvals.
- UK.
[edit] External references
- Scottish Government. Building Standards.
- Scottish Government. Building Warrants.
Featured articles and news
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.