A number our customers ask us: “why do we need building regulations?” Building regulations were created to make sure that projects are designed and built following government regulations and legislation. These are approved by Parliament.
Whether you’re building a small extension, performing alterations to your home, or applying for a large development project, regulations ensure that standards for the building work are met at national level. From fire safety, insulation and heating to ventilation, foundations or damp-proofing, fuel and power regulations cover all areas of a construction project.
By following these regulations, we can also ensure that people with disabilities are offered appropriate facilities when required. All aspects of building regulations can be found in the Approved Documents section of the government’s Building regulations site. Currently, there are 14 sections which our designers follow and consult to ensure that your project is compliant.
It is often a misconception that Building Regulations impede innovative design. Despite creating apparent limitations, there may be different ways of complying. It is important to discuss with your designer any questions you may have about your design and how this may be affected by Building Regulations.
Additional benefits of using building regulations are:
- Builders can more accurately price for a job based on our BR plans packages
- Some builders may not always be up to date with the current legislation. They may get a surprise on site when the approved inspector arrives and requests amendments which could be costly
- Plans are checked against the standards required by the Building Regulations and any amendments are requested at an early stage identifying what needs to be done to comply with the Regulations. This is usually requested prior to work commencing on site to avoid few hiccups on site and ensuing a smoother build process
What you need to know about building regulations
Does a two storey extension need to comply with Building Regulations?
Most building work needs to comply with Building Regulations. Some outbuildings will not if they are under a certain size and internal works to the house will not need Building Control approval if there are no structural changes involved. All extensions will need to comply with Building regulations and need to be signed off by the Local Council Building Control team or a private building inspector.
Read more here – Do double storey extensions need to comply with building regulations? | Fluent-ADS
What do Building Regulation drawings look like?
The building regulation plans in conjunction with the structural engineers package will provide your builder with the essential information to construct your project, ensuring a sound structure which meets UK building regulation standards.
The majority of builders will also require both regulation plans and structural package in order to provide an accurate quotation for their services.
Read more here – Building Regulation Drawings – Fluent-Architectural Design Services (fluent-ads.co.uk)
Do I need building regulations when creating an open plan layout?
Almost all forms of building projects wanting to achieve an open plan layout will involve building control approval. If you plan to remove a structural wall, take out a chimney breast, or build an extension then you will need to work with the Local Authorities building control department or a private company.
Your architect, architectural designer or builder will be able to advise you on this process and gain any building regulations approvals for you to cover the proposed works. You don’t want to create your dream space only to find that a steel hasn’t been inserted properly and cracks appear, or your new open plan kitchen is freezing cold because no insulation was put into the walls.
Read more here – Key considerations when striving for open plan living | Fluent-ADS
