Written by Lee Wilson, Architectural & Building Regulations Technician
While the world of Building Regulations governs all everyday aspects of our industry, as a Self-Builder there are certain things you can do to make gaining approval as smooth as possible. Approved Documents are an ever evolving document; their purpose is to protect people’s safety, health and welfare in and around buildings. They are also designed to improve conservation of fuel and power, protect and enhance the environment and promote sustainable development.
It is always worth remembering that Building Regulations are not an exact science and lots of the Regulations are open to interpretation of sufficient provision by Building Control, dependant on the circumstances of the project.
Below are six tips for getting the best out of Building Control.
Shop Around: The introduction of many private Building Control companies has opened up the market to competition; you are no longer required to go through your local authority for either Full Plan Checking or Site Inspections. In fact, many inspectors from private companies come from a local authority background previously so check your options and shop around.
Get Full Plans Approval: Try to avoid going down the Building Notice route; this is an application, which allows work to be carried out without the submission of full plans. This type of application is designed to enable some types of building work to get under way quickly; although it is perhaps best suited to small work. There are also specific exclusions in the regulations as to when building notices cannot be used. Ideally go for Full Plans Approval if at all possible; this ensures that the plans are checked prior to commencement of works and speeds up the site inspection process.
Develop a good relationship with your Building Inspector: Remember they are there to help you not hinder you. There are many myths about Building Inspectors, but in reality they offer valid advice that is not only aimed at ensuring you comply to the current Regulations but also to help you avoid doing unnecessary work.
If in doubt, ask: A quick phone call or e-mail to your Building Inspector can save both time and money in costly remedial work down the line.
Go beyond the Regulations: The Regulations are minimum standards for design, construction and alterations to virtually every building. However, a successful design should always aim to optimise the building where possible especially in areas such as the thermal requirements, covered in Part L, and resistance to sound, covered in Part E. Building ‘word for word’ to the Building Regulations will not give you the best end product.
Give plenty of notice: Where possible plan ahead and give ample notice that you will be requiring an inspection. Normally forty-eight hours is suitable but if you know you are going to be laying the foundations in two weeks’ time, give two weeks’ notice. Problems can and do arise that will prevent the inspecting officer from visiting site and this can lead to costly delays to the project.
Our in house Architectural Design team always recommend doing research into all aspects of your self-build prior to starting your journey so you’re fully prepared for all situations. For more information on building control for your oak frame self-build, please don’t hesitate to contact our team here
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