Building control - applications

Do I need approval?

Generally, Building Regulations apply to most building work. However, there are some exceptions, known as exempt buildings and work.

How to apply for approval

There are two methods of making an application for Building regulations (opens in a new window) , either submit a Full Plans Application or deposit a Building Notice.

Where work has been carried out without Building Regulations approval, an application may be submitted to have the work approved retrospectively by a Regularisation Certificate. This regularisation process can only be used for work started on or after 11 November 1985.

Approval and inspection process

All plans for building work are examined to check compliance with the Building Regulation standards, one method of complying with these standards is to follow the Building Regulations approved documents. (opens in a new window)

During construction, the building work is inspected by Building Control officers at various stages to check that it is in accordance with the approved plans and any defects or contraventions raised with the builder. Subject to satisfactory statutory inspections a Completion or Regularisation Certificate is issued at the end of the job. This certificate is an important document and should be placed with the deeds of the property.

• Building control at Christchurch

  The Building Control Officers at Christchurch can normally be contacted between 8.30am to 10.30am and from 3.30 onwards (officers make site inspections between these times).

• Building control at East Dorset

  If you have a query about any application(s) then please contact the Building Control section or call into the Planning Reception.

• Building control at North Dorset

  If you have a query about any application(s) then please contact the Building Control section at North Dorset District Council.

• Building Control at Purbeck

  The building control officers at Purbeck can normally be contacted between 9.00am to 10.30am and from 3.30 onwards (officers make site inspections between these times).

• Building control at West Dorset

  For an exact quotation or if you have a query relating to any application(s) then please contact the building control team.

• Building control at Weymouth & Portland

  If you have a query about any application(s) then please contact the Building Control section at Weymouth and Portland Borough Council.

• Building notice

  A Building Notice is generally suited to minor building work.

• Full Plans Application

  A Full Plans Application is required for Building Regulations consent. The Full Plans system allows your builders to price from, and work to, an approved drawing.

• Regularisation Certificate for unauthorised work

  If building work has been carried out without Building Regulations approval, an application may be submitted for a Regularisation Certificate to approve the work retrospectively.

• Exemptions

  Certain minor works and small buildings are exempt from the Building Regulations.

• Local Authority Building Control (LABC) Warranty

  The LABC Warranty is a service offering a complete range of developer services to support construction.