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01632 960 000
Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17:30

Harbour Bridge is closed from 06:00 on Saturday 24 October to 06:00 on Monday 26 October. Diversions and ferry times

Building control

Most building work must meet building regulations, which set standards for safety, energy efficiency and accessibility. Our building control team checks plans and inspects work on site.

Is a building or wall unsafe? Call 01632 960 000, Monday to Friday, 08:30 to 17:30. At any other time, call 01632 960 999.

When you need approval

You usually need building regulations approval to:

  • build an extension or a new building
  • convert a loft or garage into living space
  • remove or alter a load-bearing wall
  • put in new drains or a new bathroom
  • fit a wood-burning stove

You do not usually need approval for repairs, like-for-like replacements or decorating. If you are not sure, ask us before you start.

Building regulations approval is separate from planning permission, and you may need both. Find out about planning applications.

How to apply

There are 2 ways to apply:

  • Full plans application: send us detailed drawings before you start. We check them and give you a decision within 5 weeks. This is best for larger projects.
  • Building notice: for smaller work on a house. Tell us at least 2 working days before work starts. We check the work as it happens, instead of approving plans first.

Email your application to buildingcontrol@larkhaven.example.

Fees

Type of workFee, including VAT
Single-storey extension up to 40 m²£780
Loft conversion£840
Garage conversion£480
Removing a load-bearing wall£360
Fitting a wood-burning stove£240

For other work, email us for a quote. You pay when you send us your application.

Book an inspection

We inspect your work at key stages, such as foundations, drainage, structural steel and completion.

Book by 16:00 and we will visit on the next working day. Call 01632 960 000 or email buildingcontrol@larkhaven.example.

Completion certificate

When the work is finished and meets the regulations, we will send you a completion certificate. Keep it safe: you will need it if you sell your home.

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