TABLE OF CONTENTS Even when planning permission is not required, most building works, including alterations to existing structures, are subject to minimum standards of construction to safeguard public health and safety.
The Building Regulations are legal requirements laid down by parliament, based on the Building Act 1984. They are approved by parliament and deal with the minimum standards of design and building work for the construction of domestic, commercial and industrial buildings.
Building Regulations ensure that new developments or alterations and/or extensions to buildings are all carried out to an agreed standard that protects the health and safety of people in and around the building.
Good Idea Building standards are enforced by your local building control officer, but for matters concerning drainage or sanitary installations, you will need to consult their technical services department.
Builders and developers are required by law to obtain building control approval, which is an independent check that the Building Regulations have been complied with. There are two types of building control providers the local authority and approved inspectors.
As mentioned in the Preface, the Great Fire of London in 1666 was the single most significant event to have shaped today s legislation. The rapid growth of the fire through timber buildings built next to each other highlighted the need for builders to consider the possible spread of fire between properties when rebuilding work commenced. This resulted in the first...
