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    Avoid a costly comeback: check if this job needs building regs before you start.

    For sole traders, small firms and landlords in England and Wales. Covers the common jobs, extensions, loft conversions, electrics, windows, boilers, structural alterations.

    Sound familiar?

    • “Client wants a quick knock-through. Does that need regs or not?”
    • “I'm replacing a boiler and I don't know which bit of Part L or Part J applies.”
    • “Building control turned up on a neighbour's job and I don't want that on mine.”
    • “I'm doing some electrics in a bathroom. Is that notifiable?”

    What this tool does

    Traffic-light answer (yes / depends / no) for whether a job needs building regulations approval in England and Wales, plus the likely Part (A, L, P, J etc.) that applies. It does not cover Scotland or Northern Ireland, those have separate regs and we've got separate guides.

    This is a simplified guide for England only. It does not replace professional advice. Always check with your local Building Control or an Approved Inspector if you're unsure.

    Step 1 — What work are you doing?

    How to apply for Building Regulations approval

    1. Through your local authority Building Control — find yours via gov.uk/find-local-council
    2. Through an Approved Inspector — find one via the CICAIR register
    3. Through a competent person scheme — if your installer is registered (often the cheapest and fastest route).Examples: Gas Safe, FENSA, CERTASS, NICEIC, NAPIT, ELECSA, HETAS, OFTEC.

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    What the law actually says

    • •The Building Regulations 2010 cover most structural, thermal, electrical, fire and drainage work on buildings in England and Wales.
    • •You either notify building control yourself or use a competent person scheme installer (Gas Safe, NICEIC, FENSA etc.) who notifies on your behalf.
    • •Doing notifiable work without notice can mean enforcement notices, removal orders, and problems at the next sale or remortgage.

    What to do next

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    Important disclaimer

    SiteKiln provides general guidance only. Nothing on this site — including our guides, tools, templates and document hub — is legal, tax, financial or professional advice.

    Every situation is different. Laws, regulations and industry standards change. You should always check with a qualified professional before making decisions based on what you read here.

    We do our best to keep information accurate and up to date, but we cannot guarantee it is complete, correct or current. SiteKiln accepts no liability for actions taken based on the content of this site.