What is Building Control

Building control is the system in place to ensure that construction work in the UK complies with building regulations. These regulations are legal requirements that apply to most types of building work, including new builds, extensions, conversions, and major alterations. The primary purpose of building control is to make sure that buildings are safe, energy efficient, accessible, and meet minimum standards for health and structural integrity.

Building control is not just a box-ticking exercise. It plays a critical role in protecting people who use, visit, or live in a property. Whether it's fire safety, insulation, ventilation, drainage, or structural soundness, building control ensures that the completed work stands up to scrutiny and performs as it should.

Who Oversees Building Control

Building control is typically enforced by two types of bodies: local authority building control teams and private approved inspectors. Both carry out inspections, assess plans, and ensure compliance with regulations, but there are slight differences in how they operate.

Local authorities are the traditional route and tend to be the first point of contact for domestic projects. Private inspectors offer a more commercial approach and can sometimes provide quicker turnaround times. Regardless of the route chosen, the inspection process and legal standards remain the same.

When Building Control is Required

Building control approval is needed for most structural work and significant alterations. This includes new buildings, extensions, garage conversions, loft conversions, knocking down internal walls, and installing new heating systems or drainage. Even some types of electrical and glazing work can fall under building control depending on the scope.

It's important to apply for building control before starting any work. Unauthorised work can lead to fines, enforcement action, and complications when selling or insuring the property later.

The Building Control Process

The process begins with a building notice or full plans application. A building notice is suitable for straightforward domestic projects and doesn’t require detailed plans upfront. A full plans application involves submitting drawings and specifications, which are then checked for compliance before work starts.

Once approved, a series of site inspections take place at key stages—typically foundations, damp-proofing, structural work, insulation, and final completion. Inspectors assess the quality and safety of the work and can raise concerns or request changes if anything falls short of the required standard.

At the end of the project, assuming all is in order, a completion certificate is issued. This document is essential for proving the legality and safety of the work.

Why Building Control Matters

Building control ensures that construction work is safe, sustainable, and suitable for long-term use. It helps prevent shortcuts, cowboy building, and dangerous practices. Without building control, buildings could be left with hidden risks—from poor insulation that causes mould, to unsafe wiring or faulty drainage.

It also plays a role in energy performance, helping properties reduce their environmental impact and lower energy bills. For homeowners, building control provides peace of mind. For professionals, it supports credibility and helps maintain industry standards.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Building Control Approval

Skipping building control can create major issues. You could face legal action or be required to tear down or redo the work. If you try to sell a property with unapproved work, you may need to apply for retrospective approval or indemnity insurance. In worst-case scenarios, unsafe work can lead to injury, liability claims, or prosecution.

Even if the work seems minor, it’s always worth checking whether approval is needed. A short conversation with a building control body can prevent long-term problems.

Relationship Between Planning Permission and Building Control

Many people confuse planning permission with building control approval, but they serve different purposes. Planning permission is about how a building looks and fits into its surroundings — it covers aesthetics, use, size, and impact on neighbours or the environment. Building control, on the other hand, focuses on how a building is constructed and whether it meets safety and performance standards.

A project can need both, just one, or neither — so it’s crucial to check requirements early.

Building Regulations vs. Building Standards

In England and Wales, compliance is judged against the Building Regulations, which are regularly updated to reflect new standards for energy efficiency, fire safety, accessibility, and more. In Scotland and Northern Ireland, the equivalent frameworks are called Building Standards. Though similar in intent, the exact rules and procedures differ slightly by region.

Approved Documents

The UK Building Regulations are supported by a set of guidance documents known as Approved Documents. These cover specific areas like fire safety (Part B), ventilation (Part F), and electrical safety (Part P). While following them isn’t mandatory, doing so is the most straightforward way to prove compliance. Alternatives are allowed, but only if they meet or exceed the same performance standards.

Competent Person Schemes

For some types of work, like electrical installation or gas fitting, you can use a registered installer under a Competent Person Scheme. These professionals can self-certify their work, which means you don’t need separate building control approval. It streamlines the process while still ensuring safety and compliance.

Retrospective Approval (Regularisation)

If work has been carried out without approval, you may be able to apply for retrospective approval through a process called “regularisation.” This involves an inspection of the existing work and potentially uncovering parts of it to verify compliance. It’s more costly and uncertain than doing it right the first time, but it’s sometimes necessary when buying or selling a property.

Digital Submissions and Site Inspections

Most local authorities and private inspectors now allow digital plan submissions, which speeds up the approval process. Site inspections can also be arranged online or via mobile apps. For minor works, video inspections have become more common since the pandemic, providing flexibility without compromising safety.

Final Word

Building control is not red tape—it’s a safeguard. It keeps homes and buildings safe, efficient, and compliant with UK law. Whether you’re planning a loft conversion or starting from the ground up, understanding and following building control requirements is essential. Always check the regulations, involve the right professionals, and make building control part of your project from day one. It’s not just about doing things by the book—it’s about building right.