Building regulations explained
Building regulations protect the health, safety, welfare and convenience of people in and about buildings.
They recommend basic standards in:
- structural stability
- fire safety
- damp-proofing
- sound insulation
- stairs ramps and guards
- ventilation
- drainage
- energy conservation
- access to and use of buildings
- glazing
- heat producing appliances
- electrical safety
The regulations generally apply to new, extended and altered buildings whether they are residential, commercial or industrial.
Help with applications and compliance
We provide guidance to help you make a building control application. Go to:
- full plans submissions
- building notice submissions
- regularisation application
- demolition application
You can get practical help on how to comply with the building regulations from a series of national 'approved documents'. For full details, go to documents to help you comply.