How to Get Building Control Approval

Building Control approval is essential for most construction, renovation and structural alteration work in the UK. It ensures that your project complies with the Building Regulations, which cover safety, energy efficiency, accessibility and hygiene. Whether you are building a home extension, converting a loft or removing a load-bearing wall, securing Building Control approval helps you avoid legal issues, protects future property value and ensures the work is safe and structurally sound.

What Is Building Control Approval?

Building Control approval is a legal requirement that confirms your building work meets the standards set out in the Building Regulations. It is separate from planning permission and may still be required even if your project does not need planning consent. The process involves submitting an application, notifying the local authority or Approved Inspector, and undergoing a series of site inspections during the build.

Choose Your Building Control Route

You have two main options when applying for Building Control: through your local council’s Building Control team or a private Approved Inspector. Both routes are equally valid in law. Local authority Building Control is the default option, while Approved Inspectors offer an alternative route for those seeking a more flexible or commercial approach.

Application Methods: Full Plans or Building Notice

There are two ways to apply for Building Control with a local authority. A Full Plans application is the most comprehensive route. You submit detailed architectural drawings, structural calculations and specifications before starting work. The plans are assessed for compliance and any issues are raised early. This method gives peace of mind for more complex projects such as new builds, large extensions, or work involving structural changes.

A Building Notice is quicker and simpler. You submit a short form and a location plan, and you can start work 48 hours later. This method is suited to smaller domestic jobs like basic internal alterations or straightforward extensions. However, there is no pre-approval of plans, so it places greater responsibility on your builder to ensure the work complies on site.

If you choose an Approved Inspector, they submit an Initial Notice to the local authority and manage the inspection process independently. You still receive the same final completion certificate, but the application process is handled privately.

Prepare and Submit the Application

For a Full Plans application, you will need to submit detailed drawings showing existing and proposed plans and elevations, structural calculations and specifications, a site location plan, the application form and payment of the required fee.

For a Building Notice, you need only a site plan, a brief description of the work and the correct fee. The simplicity is appealing for small jobs, but you will not have plans checked in advance.

Approved Inspectors usually guide you through their own paperwork and will liaise with the local authority to submit the Initial Notice.

Applications to local authorities can be made through their own portals or through the Planning Portal’s Building Control submission service. Once received, you’ll be assigned a Building Control officer who will inspect the work at key stages.

What to Expect from Inspections

The Building Control process continues throughout your construction. Inspections are required at various milestones, such as foundation work, damp-proof course installation, structural framing, drainage, insulation and final completion. You or your builder must notify Building Control before each inspection stage.

Inspections are usually carried out within 24 to 48 hours of notice. After the final inspection, if everything complies with the regulations, you will be issued a completion certificate. This is essential for future home sales, remortgages and insurance.

How Long It Takes

A Full Plans application is usually assessed within five to eight weeks. A Building Notice allows work to begin within two days. The overall Building Control process continues for the duration of your project, with final sign-off typically occurring within five to ten working days of the last inspection.

Cost of Approval

Building Control fees vary by project size and complexity. Expect to pay between £400 and £1,200 for typical domestic extensions. Full Plans applications may have separate plan-check and inspection fees, while Building Notices usually involve a single upfront fee. Approved Inspectors will quote their own all-in-one prices depending on the job.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Work that begins without notifying Building Control may require retrospective approval and can result in enforcement action. Make sure all inspections are booked in advance and that your builder follows the regulations closely. Failing to do so can delay completion, increase costs and cause major problems during property transactions.

Conclusion

To get Building Control approval in the UK, you must submit the appropriate application, follow the correct process and ensure your work is inspected throughout. Whether you choose a Full Plans route, a Building Notice or an Approved Inspector, the goal is to achieve a final completion certificate that proves compliance. Getting it right from the beginning protects your investment and ensures the work meets legal and safety standards.