Building Control ensure that all newly erected, extended and altered buildings within the district meet building regulation requirements and are constructed to a standard that protects people's health, safety, welfare and convenience.
We receive approximately 2,500 building regulations applications and carry out around 9000 site inspections each year. Projects range from alterations and extensions to new dwellings to large scale commercial developments.
Building Control remit
We are also concerned with energy conservation and with access and facilities for disabled people. Approval under the Building Regulations is entirely separate from the process of obtaining Planning Permission. Details of the correct site address and type of work will be required before making an appointment.
Officers are available by appointment only - callers without appointments cannot be seen.
You may contact our officers before 9.30am or after 3.15pm on 01727 866100. Between these hours, an answerphone is available to leave inspection requests.
We endorse the principle of the national considerate constructors scheme and we encourage builders and developers within the district to register with the initiative.
Application forms and fees
For information on fees and to download application forms, please see the link on the left to Application Forms and Fees.
For advice about whether you will need a Full Plans application or a Building Notice, please see our Making Applications page.
What is the difference between planning permission and building control?
Planning Permission
relates mainly to the correct use of land, the aesthetic appearance of the proposed building and the effect that the development will have on the general environment and neighbouring properties. Planning also deals with listed buildings and conservation areas.
Building Regulations
are concerned with the way in which the building is constructed, its structural stability, means of escape and fire precautions, weather resistance, energy conservation, sound insulation, access and facilities for people with disabilities.
When is Building Regulations approval required?
Building Regulations approval will usually be required if you intend to carry out any of the following work:
- construct a new building
- build an extension
- form a room in the roof space (loft conversion)
- carry out structural alterations to an existing building
( e.g. form a through lounge or remove chimney breast) - change the use of an existing building
(e.g. converted a house into flats) - install, extend or alter drainage facilities
(e.g. a new bathroom, or a toilet under the stairs) - re-cover a roof structure
You can make an application in two ways:
- by giving us notice of your proposal (Building Notice)
- submitting plans for your proposal (Full Plans)
Find out more about applications on our
making an application page. If you are not sure whether your idea needs Building Regulation consent, please call Building Control on 01727 819289 or 819218
Enforcement
Where development has taken place without planning permission or building control, or work has begun prior to the submission of Full Plans or a Building Notice, we can take enforcement action. This can lead to the prosecution of any person undertaking work that is unauthorised.
Town Planning permission may also be required, you should call Development Control on 01727 819344.
Online enquiries
A Building Control eform is available for email enquiries. PLEASE NOTE WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT APPLICATIONS DIGITALLY. APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUBMITTED AS HARD COPIES.
Unsure about when Building Regulations are required? The Planning Portal also offers comprehensive advice on building control issues. Here you will find the all information you need about the building control system, how to apply for building regulations approval and how to find out if you need to notify building control.
Date of last review: 17 January 2013