Self-build home: Submit a building regulations application
Introduction.
In this stage, we attribute design activities to ‘designers’. These may be architects and engineers, a design and build contractor, or a kit house supplier. If a kit house supplier is only supplying the house itself, additional design consultants may be required.
The building regulations set out statutory requirements for specific aspects of building design and construction as well as notification procedures that must be followed when starting, carrying out, and completing building work. Failure to comply with the building regulations can result in a fine and/or an enforcement notice requiring rectification of the works. See building regulations for more information.
A series of ‘approved documents’ provide general guidance about how to comply with the building regulations. These cover issues such as; fire, power, accessibility, ventilation and so on. See approved documents for more information.
Building regulations approvals can be sought either from the building control department of the local authority or from an approved inspector. In either case, a fee will be payable, relative to the type of building and the construction cost.
The designer should co-ordinate consultations with the local authority or approved inspector during the design process to confirm that proposals are likely to be acceptable and to establish the exact submission requirements.
On very small 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, generally, a ‘full plans’ application will be made, in which plans, specifications and calculations are submitted for approval before construction begins. Full plans approvals are also subject to inspection during the course of the works, typically during the construction of foundations, damp proof courses and drains and perhaps at other key stages, but the risk that problems will be found is much lower than it is with the building notice route.
A full plans approval notice is valid for three years from the date of deposit of the plans. This can be very important given the speed at which the regulations change, meaning that a building which has been approved, but not built may require re-design and further approval if the regulations are revised.
When the building is finished, it is important to ensure that a completion certificate is sought from the approving body as evidence that the completed works comply with the regulations.
NB Self-build homes may be notifiable to the Health and Safety Executive under the CDM regulations, but the client's duties under the regulations will generally fall to the contractor on a project where there is only one contractor, or the principal contractor on a project where there is more than one contractor. See CDM for self-builders and domestic clients for more information.
Featured articles and news
The Home Energy Model and its wrappers
From SAP to HEM, EPC for MEES and FHS assessment wrappers.
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.