Building Regulations

Building Regulations exist principally to ensure the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in and around buildings; along with the water and energy efficiency of buildings.

The regulations apply to most new buildings and many alterations of existing buildings in England and Wales, whether domestic, commercial or industrial.

It’s crucial to understand the importance of the building regulations as you are responsible for making sure that the work complies with them if you are carrying out building work on your property.

If you are employing a builder, the responsibility will usually be theirs – but you should confirm this at the beginning.

Also bear in mind that  if you are the owner of the building, it is ultimately you who may be served with an enforcement notice if the work does not comply with the regulations.

Complying with the building regulations is a separate matter from getting planning permission for your work.

Building Regulations set standards  for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety and health for people in or about those buildings. They also include requirements to ensure that fuel, power and water are conserved and facilities are provided for people, including those with disabilities,  to access and move around inside buildings.