When Building Regulations apply to the work you want to do, then you need either to:

involve a building control body – either local authority building control or an approved inspector – or
use an installer registered under a competent person scheme.

If you need to involve a building control body, you will need to notify them of your building work, seek their approval and explain how your work will meet the requirements of the Building Regulations. They will then provide advice and carry out some checks.

For some types of work you can use a competent person scheme. Installers registered with a competent person scheme must follow certain rules to make sure they comply with the Building Regulations.

Using a building control body

If the work has started or been completed and you have not notified a building control body then you cannot use an approved inspector. You can only use your local authority building control service to approve your work. Local authority building control are not obliged to approve work that has already been carried out. It is a good idea to seek approval before starting your work. This may avoid you being asked to change or demolish your work later.

Competent person schemes

Competent person schemes let tradespeople show that they can do certain works. Examples include home window replacements or gas boiler installations. You do not need to apply for Building Regulations approval for work completed by an installer who is working under a competent person scheme.

Only installers who are registered with a competent person scheme can self-certify that their work complies with the Building Regulations. Where necessary, they will tell your local authority about the work for you. You will receive a certificate from them within 30 days of completion of the work. This will confirm that the work complies with the Building Regulations.

Do I Need a Building Control Body?