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
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.
Construction Skills Mission Board launch sector drive
Newly formed government and industry collaboration set strategy for recruiting an additional 100,000 construction workers a year.
New Architects Code comes into effect in September 2025
ARB Architects Code of Conduct and Practice available with ongoing consultation regarding guidance.
Welsh Skills Body (Medr) launches ambitious plan
The new skills body brings together funding and regulation of tertiary education and research for the devolved nation.
Paul Gandy FCIOB announced as next CIOB President
Former Tilbury Douglas CEO takes helm.
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).