Building Control

Building regulations are national standards that are set to ensure buildings are safe, healthy and accessible. They're different to planning applications that look at the design of a building. 

For many types of building work, separate permission for both planning and building regulations will be required. If you are in any doubt, take a look at our planning applications page.

How we can help

Building regulations can seem complicated for first-time developers. If you're considering a building project and you're not sure how they apply to your project, we recommend that you ask for our advice before you start any work.

Our experienced building control surveyors will be able to support you whatever the size or your building project. Whether you're a homeowner planning an extension or a housing developer, we can offer you a unique and cost-effective service from pre-application through to completion, to make sure your project is finished on-time and to the highest standard.

When you've finished your build, getting the work certified by us also shows that it meets compliance, to you and future owners.

You'll find everything you need to know about building regulations, including how to submit your plans and apply for approval here. 

We also have an enforcement policy which is available on request.    

For free technical advice

Call us on 01226 772678 or 772679

Find out if you need approval

Planning an extension or altering a building? Developing residential homes or retail builds? Find out what consent you may need to start your project.

Submit an application

Whether you're a homeowner or developer, you'll find all the forms you'll need and our fees here. You can start work in as little as 48 hours after we've received your application.

Book an inspection

We can check your project during the build to make sure it complies with the regulations. We offer a same day inspection service if requested before 9:30am.

Unauthorised building work

We can take legal action if you don't notify us about your building work. If you're selling or buying a property that doesn't have building approval, you may be able to apply for a retrospective inspection.

Get permission to demolish a building

If you want to demolish a building, or part of one, we'll need six weeks notice before you begin any demolition.

Report a dangerous building

You can report a dangerous building using our online form and we'll inspect it and take action to make it safe. If it's urgent please call us instead on 01226 772678 or 772679.

Report building site noise and pollution

It's usual to expect some noise and dust from a building site, but if work is starting early and finishing late, or taking place at weekends, you can ask us to investigate it.

Register street names and numbers

If you're a developer you can apply to us to name new streets and number houses.

Become a registered partner

Join other developers, architects, building contractors and house builders, and partner with us under the LABC Partner Authority Scheme. The benefits include a single local point of contact and application approval of all your nationwide projects.  

 

Find out about becoming a partner

Site inspections app

The Local Authority Building Control (LABC) have created a smartphone app which allows you to get an inspection digitally. The app can look your site up, either with GPS or by using a postcode, and means you no longer need to wait until you’re back in the office to book your inspection. 

The app will submit your site inspection request and preferred date and time of inspection to the right local authority building control team.

More about the LABC site inspection app