Do I need building regulation approval?

Before starting any building works you might need to get either planning permission or building regulations approval, or both.

Going ahead without could mean you have to pay to put things back to how they were, or you might have to fix issues to make them right.

Building regulations approval

You need building regulations approval to check the work you are doing is structurally safe, provides proper access and facilities, and meets certain energy efficiency standards.

You probably need building regulations approval for:

• a new building
• an extension
• a loft or garage conversion
• alterations to the structure of the building
• home improvements like a new boiler, radiators, bathroom, fuse box, electric, windows, doors, and roofing.

You should get approval before you start work otherwise you may have to fix any issues we find at your own expense.

View more information on building regulation approval on the GOV.UK website.

Apply for building regulation approval

Planning permission

You will probably need planning permission if you want to:

• build something new
• make a major change, like building an extension
• change the use of your building.

You should check if you need planning permission.