Have you ever wondered whether the term building control approval applies to your project?
Many homeowners assume approval is only needed for large extensions or new builds. In reality, building control applies to a wide range of works, including structural alterations and internal changes. Understanding when approval is required can help you avoid delays, extra costs, and problems when selling your home later.
This guide explains when building control approval is needed in the UK, what types of work are covered, and why it matters.
What Is Building Control Approval?
Building control approval is the process used to ensure building work meets the standards set out in the Building Regulations. These regulations are designed to ensure buildings are safe, structurally sound, energy efficient, and accessible.
Building control is different from planning permission. Planning focuses on how a building looks and how it affects the surrounding area, while building control focuses on how the work is carried out.
Approval is usually overseen by:
- Local authority building control, or
- An approved private building control inspector
When Is Building Control Approval Required?
You will usually need building control approval if your project involves any of the following.
Structural Alterations
Any work that affects the structure of a building normally requires building control approval.
This includes:
- Removing load-bearing walls
- Installing steel beams or RSJs
- Altering floors or roofs
- Creating new structural openings
Structural work must meet strict safety standards, and inspections are required to confirm it has been carried out correctly.
House Extensions
Most extensions require building control approval, regardless of whether planning permission is needed.
This includes:
- Single-storey extensions
- Two-storey extensions
- Side and rear extensions
Building control will assess foundations, structural integrity, insulation, drainage, and overall compliance with regulations.
Loft Conversions
Loft conversions almost always require building control approval.
Key areas assessed include:
- Structural strength of the floor
- Staircase design
- Fire safety and escape routes
- Insulation and ventilation
Even if planning permission is not required, building control approval still applies.
Garage Conversions
If you are converting a garage into a habitable room, building control approval is normally required.
This ensures:
- Adequate insulation
- Safe structural changes
- Proper ventilation and damp protection
- Internal Alterations
Some internal work requires approval, particularly where safety is affected.
Examples include:
- Removing internal walls that are load-bearing
- Creating open-plan layouts
- Installing new staircases
- Altering fire escape routes
Not all internal changes need approval, but structural ones often do.
Drainage, Plumbing and Electrical Work
Certain services also fall under building regulations. Approval may be required for:
- New drainage systems
- Structural plumbing changes
- Electrical work covered by Part P
- New heating systems or boilers
Qualified installers may self-certify some work, but this must still be documented.
What Work Does Not Usually Require Building Control Approval?
Some minor or cosmetic works do not normally require approval, such as:
- Replacing kitchen units without altering layout or structure
- Decorating or plastering
- Replacing windows and doors like-for-like (with certified installers)
- Minor repairs
If work does not affect structure, safety, or energy efficiency, approval may not be required.
Why Building Control Approval Matters
Skipping building control approval when it is required can lead to serious issues later.
These may include:
- Enforcement action from the local authority
- Difficulty selling your property
- Problems with insurance claims
- Additional costs to correct non-compliant work
Approval provides reassurance that work has been inspected and meets current safety standards.
Who Is Responsible for Building Control Approval?
The responsibility lies with the homeowner, even if the work is carried out by a contractor.
In practice, experienced builders will:
- Advise when approval is required
- Help coordinate inspections
- Ensure work is carried out to the correct standard
However, it is important that approval is formally in place and properly signed off.
When Should You Apply for Approval?
Building control approval should be arranged before work begins.
This allows:
- Plans to be reviewed
- Inspections to be scheduled
- Problems to be identified early
Leaving it until after work has started can cause delays or require changes to completed work.
Do You Need Building Control Approval for Your Project?
If your project involves structural work, extensions, loft conversions, or changes that affect safety or services, building control approval is likely required.
If you are unsure, it is always better to check early rather than assume. Early guidance can save time, money, and stress later in the build.