Building regulations approval
When you do not need approval
You do not need to apply for approval if the work is exempt or not covered by building regulations. You also do not need to apply for approval if the work is done by someone registered with a competent person scheme.
Work that does not need approval
You do not need building regulations approval for exempt projects, including:
- most repairs, replacements and maintenance work (except heating systems, oil tanks, fuse boxes and glazing units)
- new power and lighting points, or changes to existing circuits (except around baths and showers)
- replacing baths, toilets, basins and sinks
- installing insulation in roof spaces or under timber floors
- some hot water storage systems holding less than 15 litres
- gutters or downpipes
- external doors, if less than half of the door is glazed
Find out more about common projects and check if your work is not covered by building regulations or is exempt.
Check with a building control body if you’re still not sure what to do.
Hire a ‘competent person’
If your project needs approval but you’d rather not apply yourself, you can hire a tradesperson registered with a competent person scheme instead.
You must meet safety and energy efficiency standards even if you do not need formal approval.