Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need approval to build an extension to my house?
- Do I need approval to build a porch or conservatory?
- Do I need approval to build a garage extension to my house, shop or office?
- Do I need approval to build a detached garage?
- Do I need approval for a loft conversion?
- Do I need approval for a new or replacement (central heating) boiler (and/or hot water system) ?
- Do I need approval for ( opening up and ) re-using or building a chimney and/or fireplace?
- Do I need approval to install, alter or replace my shop front?
- Do I need approval for external insulation fixed to the existing walls?
- Do I need approval to build an extension to my house?
Yes, please contact the Building Control section for advice.
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- Do I need approval to build a porch or conservatory?
Most porches and conservatories are exempt from Building Regulation approval if they meet the following basic criteria:
- separated from the dwelling by walls, doors and/or windows
- built at ground level
- under 30mē in floor area
- glazing complies with the safety glazing requirements of the Building Regulations [Part N]
- have independent controls for any heating
Please note
- a conservatory requires a glazed or translucent roof to satisfy this exemption.
- You may need Building regulation approval for any electrical installations within these exempt structures if Part P (electrical installations in domestic buildings) is applicable.
It is advisable to ensure that a conservatory is not constructed, so that it restricts ladder access to windows serving a room in the roof space or a loft conversion, particularly if that window is needed as an emergency means of escape in the case of fire.
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- Do I need approval to build a garage extension to my house, shop or office?
Yes, but a car port extension built at ground level, open on at least two sides and under 30m2 in floor area, is exempt.
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- Do I need approval to build a detached garage?
Most standard size detached garages are exempt from Building Regulation approval providing they meet the following criteria:-
- a single storey garage built at ground level,
- under 30mē in floor area and with no sleeping accommodation,
- and either:
- it is built substantially of non-combustible material; or
- when built it has a clear space of 1 metre from the boundary of the property.
- it is built substantially of non-combustible material; or
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- Do I need approval for a loft conversion?
Yes. In all cases.
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- Do I need approval for a new or replacement (central heating) boiler (and/or hot water system) ?
Yes. In all cases after 1-04-2002. However, some registered installers may be able to 'self-certify' that their work complies with the Building Regulations. Boilers require Commissioning Certificates. Guidance is available in the new Approved Documents for Part L1 and L2 [2002 Editions].
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- Do I need approval for ( opening up and ) re-using or building a chimney and/or fireplace?
Yes. An old masonry chimney may require relining. Guidance with constructional details is available in the Approved Document for Part J
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- Do I need approval to install, alter or replace my shop front?
Yes.
Altering a shop front is classed as building work and as such approval is required, You will need to consider specifically the thermal performance of the new structure, fire safety particularly in relation to means of escape and access for all requirements. Please contact Building Control for advice.
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- Do I need approval for external insulation fixed to the existing walls?
Yes. In all cases as this alters the thermal performance of the building.
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