Navigating building regulations can seem like wading through a maze of legal jargon and technicalities, but don’t worry! Our updated, guide for 2024 breaks it all down, so you can breeze through the regulations and get back to dreaming about your new space.
Building Regulations: What’s the Deal?
Building regulations might sound like they’re all about rules and red tape, but they’re actually your best friends when it comes to ensuring your home is safe, comfy, and eco-friendly. Think of them as the rulebook for making sure your dream project doesn’t turn into a nightmare.
What’s New for 2024?
This year, there are some exciting updates! The biggest stars are Part L and Part O. Part O is all about keeping your home cool and preventing overheating—no more sweltering summer days! Part S is your ticket to having top-draw electric vehicle charging points, so you’ll be ready for the electric car revolution.
Do I Need Approval?
If you’re planning anything from a new kitchen to a grand extension, you’ll need to get building regulations approval. It’s like getting a gold star for making sure everything is up to scratch.
Here’s what you might need:
Drainage (because nobody wants a surprise indoor pool)
Heat-producing gadgets (keeping you warm and toasty)
New electrical systems (keeping the lights on and the Wi-Fi running
What Are the Main Regulations?
Once your planning permission is sorted, it’s time to dive into the technical stuff. Here’s a quick rundown of the regulations you’ll need to tick off:
Part A – Making sure the structure won’t fall down
Part B – Keeping things fire-safe
Part C – Avoiding damp and contamination
Part E – Ensuring it’s not too noisy
Part F – Ventilating like a pro
Part L – Saving energy (and cash!)
Part O – Keeping cool
Part P – Electrical safety
Part S – Charging your electric car
Building an Extension?
If you’re adding on to your home, you’ll probably need to play by the regulations’ rules. This means checking off things like energy performance (no more chilly rooms), structural integrity (let’s keep those walls standing), and safety features (to prevent falls and fires).
How Much Does It Cost?
Local authorities usually have fee calculators to help you figure out how much your building regulations application will set you back. Expect fees based on the size and complexity of your project. Don’t forget to budget for plans and structural calculations too!
Take a look: https://fee-calculator.landregistry.gov.uk/
Application Types
Before starting work, you’ll need to choose between two application types:
Full Plans Application: Submit detailed plans and get the thumbs-up before starting. It’s like having a cheat sheet for your project, so you know everything is compliant from the start.
Building Notice Application: Start work now, but promise to comply with the regulations as you go. It’s more like a trust fall—hope everything turns out okay!
Do You Need a Structural Engineer?
For more complex projects, a structural engineer is a must. They’ll help with calculations to ensure your project stands strong. Fees vary depending on the complexity, so get ready to shell out a bit for this crucial step.
Email us at hello@eccltd.org and we can put you in touch with some tried and tested ones.
Drawing Costs
Expect to pay around £700 for drawings for a single-storey extension and £1,200 for a two-storey extension. More intricate designs will cost more, so plan accordingly! Emerge can help you find one that meets your budget.
How Long Will Approval Take?
The time to get approval varies. A straightforward project might wrap up in a few days, but for a Full Plans application, you’re looking at about five weeks. No need to wait for approval before starting, though!
Who Handles Building Regulations?
You can choose between:
Local Authority Inspector: The traditional route, handled by your council’s building control.
Approved Inspector: A private company that can handle about 20% of approvals.
Both will check your plans and inspect your work, but only local authority inspectors have enforcement power.
You can find the right one here: https://www.gov.uk/find-local-council
Builder Know-How
Good builders are usually well-versed in building regulations, but remember, the ultimate responsibility is yours as the homeowner. You can delegate, but you’re the one who needs to ensure everything meets the mark (We do😊)
Inspection Process
Key inspections include:
Foundation excavation
Drainage
After block and beam / substructure
DPC
After joists
After Trusses
After roof
Pre-plaster
Completion
And more...
Getting Your Completion Certificate
Once everything is completed and approved, you’ll receive a completion certificate. This is like your project’s diploma—essential for selling your home, securing final funds from lenders, and even reclaiming VAT.
Ready to tackle those building regs with confidence? With this guide, you’re all set to make your dream project a reality without getting bogged down by the technical stuff!
Here is what the gov says: https://www.gov.uk/building-regulations-approval
Comments