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What are Building Regulations? - Advice from Building Control

Building Regulations are legally monitor health and safety of buildings.

Understanding Building Regulations 

Building Regulations make sure public and commercial buildings i.e. shops and offices are safe. Most building work including new builds, adding a home extension, replacing windows, must follow specific regulations.

The regulations are constantly under review. 

Reviewing regulations keeps processes up to date with modern building design. 

For further guidance, supporting documents are available with brief outlines of each requirement. The document offers practical and technical guidance on complying with Building Regulations. 

Find out more on the Requirements of the Building Regulations and Approved Documents on the Planning Portal. (opens new window)

Before starting work, check other requirements

First, it is important to remember that even without Building Regulations approval you may need other permissions. 
Including: 

  • Most projects will need Planning Permission 
  • Conservation Area Consent - if you live in Noak Bridge, Little Burstead, Great Burstead, Billericay High Street
  •  Landlords Consent - if you live in a block of flats

For further information about  gathering consent from other parties, see Planning Services. .

Extra advice for Commercial Properties

For commercial property there are additional regulations, which Building Control can help you with.  Building regulations are completely separate from Planning legislation. Receiving approval from one does not automatically mean you have approval from the other. 

At the earliest stage of the project, contact Building Control for advice on both types of law.  Any advice given is free.