Complying with building regulations

Any structural alterations to your home should conform to current building regulations. Before starting any such alterations you should contact your local council’s Building Control department to inform them that you will be making such alterations. They will want to check the work at various stages of the job to make sure you comply. Typically they’ll want some money for this service, which will be around £200 for a small job.

A simple call to your local council should assure that Building Control Officers are actually "nice people" and that the process of getting the all important compliance certificate is not that tricky after all.

Does this affect me?

Approval is mostly required for anything structural, but also includes items such as cavity wall insulation, and fitting new windows. The government’s planning portal gives a list of the types of work that require approval.

Why should I bother?

Failure to comply with the relevant rules can result in you being liable for any remedial action, which may include demolition.
If you sell your house, you may be required to show certificates of compliance for any recent building work.
If you are employing a builder, it is a good way to ensure that the work they do meets safety requirements. A good builder will be happy to work with a Building Control Officer

How to make sure you comply

A CD of all the building regulations can be purchased if you fancy a little light reading. The regulations are reasonably plain and simple, but if you are in any doubt, seek professional advice before you start!