Do I Need Building Control for Internal Works?

When planning home improvements, many homeowners assume that work inside the property can be simply completed without any permissions needed. However, internal works can still affect the safety and structure of a building, which is why building control approval is often required. 

Understanding when approval is necessary can help you avoid costly delays, ensure compliance with UK regulations and guarantee that your project is always safe and fit for purpose. 

At IKT Consulting, we’re experts in all types of structural engineering services and have a deep understanding of when building control approval is needed. With this in mind, in this article, we’ll explain when you need these permissions and help you understand the process. 

Read on for more information… 

 

What is building control approval?

Building control approval is a formal process that confirms a building project meets the required standards for health, safety, welfare and energy efficiency. It considers the Building Regulations that cover structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility and much more.  

No matter the size or type of your project, building control approval will ensure your home remains safe for its occupants and complies with all the relevant legislation. This approval process will involve inspections by your local authority to ensure that the work is being carried out correctly and safely. 

 

What is the difference between building control approval and planning permission?

Building control approval and planning permission serve different purposes, but they are often confused. Let’s take a look at the distinct roles these two processes take: 

• Planning permission: This relates to the external appearance, size and location of a building in the surrounding environment. Its appearance, neighbouring properties and other factors will be considered before a decision is made.
• Building control approval: Focuses on the safety and performance of works externally and internally. It makes sure that construction work complies with the relevant Building Regulations. 

In short, planning permission confirms whether a project can go ahead, whereas building control makes sure an approved project is taking place safely. 

 

Do I need building control for internal works?

Yes, in many cases you will need building control approval for building works. Although not all internal work needs approval, any project that involves structural alterations or major technical changes will almost certainly need it. Even if a change seems minor on the face of it, if it affects the way your building behaves, you should check if you need building control approval. 

 

When building control is needed 

Here are some of the most common cases where building control approval is needed:

Structural changes 

Anything that alters the building’s structure will need approval. This includes:

• Removing or modifying load-bearing walls
• Installing steel beams
• Creating new openings for walls, floors or ceilings 
• Chimney breast removals 
• Staircase alterations 

Because structural changes directly affect the stability of a property, building control must ensure that the structural design has been created and approved by a qualified structural engineer, such as the team here at IKT Consulting. 

Fire safety 

Building Regulations require specific fire safety measures to be in place in homes. Internal works might need approval if they affect:

• Fire doors
• Escape routes
• Smoke ventilation systems 

Loft conversions and garage conversions are particular areas where fire safety standards will likely need to be upgraded. 

Electrical systems 

While minor electrical works might be exempt from building control approval, most will need it. This includes:

• New circuits 
• Consumer unit replacements 
• Rewiring 
• Electrical work in kitchens and bathrooms 

A certified electrician must carry out the work. 

Plumbing works 

Changes involving water supply or waste systems will need approval, especially:

• New bathrooms
• Relocating sanitary ware
• Installing new drainage connections 
• Upgrades to hot water systems 

This ensures all systems are safe and hygienic. 

Environmental considerations 

If the work affects insulation, ventilation, damp proofing or energy efficiency, building control will want to make sure the project meets energy and safety standards. 

Accessibility 

Buildings must always be safe and accessible for all occupants. Works that impact stairs or access routes should seek approval. 

 

Who is responsible for getting approval?

Legally, the homeowner is responsible for making sure building control approval is in place before any work begins. However, builders and structural engineers often handle the process for their clients and provide advice. 

Still, it’s worth noting that the final responsibility will always fall to the homeowner, so it’s extremely important you use reputable contractors.  

Projects exempt from building control approval 

Some minor works that typically do not  need building control approval include: 

• Replacement of bathroom fittings like baths, sinks and toilets (as long as they stay in the same location)
• Alterations to existing electrical circuits, such as the replacement of lighting fittings
• Carports attached to a property 
• Greenhouses
• Small garden rooms or sheds under 15m2 floor space that are not used for sleeping 

While these works are usually exempt, you should make sure the work is still carried out by trained professionals. 

 

Types of building control approval 

There are three main types of building control approval. These include: 

Full plans 

This is the most thorough option. It requires the submission of detailed drawings, structural designs and a range of other specifications before construction begins. Inspectors will also visit your property, and you should get a decision within five to eight weeks.  

Building notice 

This is a quicker and more simplified route compared to a full plan application. No detailed plans are needed upfront; however, it can be more risky as inspectors may pick up on things that need to be changed. 

Regularisation 

This is used for work that has been carried out without approval, and retrospective confirmation will be needed. Building control approval may still need to inspect the project. 

 

How IKT Consulting can help 

At IKT Consulting, we provide expert support for homeowners undertaking all kinds of construction work, including internal. No matter how big or small your project is, we provide a whole host of services, including structural calculations, designs, surveys and much more. For more information, get in touch with our team today.