Full plans guidance notes

• The format of this application is prescribed in law.
• This application should not be made to the local authority if it relates to a high rise residential building of 7 or more storeys (or the top floor is at least 18m from ground level). Please see the Building Safety Regulator – Manage a building control application for a higher-risk building – GOV.UK
• The client is the person who is either the building owner, or person who commissioned the work. For most projects, they will also be the ‘applicant’.
• If you are not the client, then we must have a signed document from the client as part of the application authorising the submission of the application.
• A plan fee must be paid on submission of the application as part of the validation requirements.
• An inspection fee will become payable once work starts on site. We will not issue a completion certificate if this is not paid.
• Additional fees become payable if the project does not progress as we expect it to. For example, corrective work needs inspecting, multiple works take place separately, electrician not registered to self-certify under ‘Part P’ of the regulations is used.
• All communication during the plan checking stage will be with the agent. Once work starts on site, we will deal directly with the applicant/client.
• When making a paper application, two copies of the plans and supporting information should be provided, unless the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies, in which case four copies should be provided. Note: The order applies to most buildings that are not single family dwelling houses.
• Regulation 14A of the Building Regulations 2010 provides for the passing of plans subject to requirements. The requirements may specify modifications to the plans and/or that further plans shall be deposited. If you do not consent to the plans being passed subject to requirements, then the application will be rejected if you have not demonstrated compliance with all the requirements.
• Plans must be determined within the statutory time period of 5 weeks. We ask for an extension of time to 2 months at the time of application because there is insufficient time for us to check the application for compliance, and for you to return amended plans to us. Further extensions of time can be agreed if it helps the flow of information.
• Optional Requirements – Certain Building Regulation standards relate to your planning permission. If the work relates to a new dwelling, please check you planning permission to see if higher standards have been set for water efficiency (Part G) and access and use (Part M).
• Your attention is drawn to the requirements of Part 2A of the Building Regulations 2010, and the requirement to appoint a competent principal designer and principal contractor. This applies to all domestic work, except pure DIY projects.
• The application expires 3 years from the date of submission if work has not started on site and reached a specific stage.
• Please note that this is not a planning application. To discuss planning matters, you should contact your local authorities planning team.