In October 2023, the government introduced changes to Building Control laws. These changes place new duties of competence on all parties involved, and also affect higher-risk buildings. You can read more about the changes.
Check if you need building control approval
You need building control approval if you are building, extending or altering a building, as these regulations apply to most building work.
You can view an interactive guide on the Planning Portal, which explains when you need building regulations approval. (However, you cannot submit a Building Control application via the Planning Portal.)
If work has already been carried out without building control approval, you can apply for retrospective approval (regularisation).
Even if you don’t need building control approval, you may still need planning permission.
The building regulations make sure that buildings are safe, accessible and energy efficient. Planning permission deals with the use of land, the appearance of buildings and the impact on the environment.
You can find out about our planning service, or view more information about planning on the Planning Portal.
Further information
For practical advice on home improvements, you can visit Front Door from the LABC.