If you are planning to start building work which requires a building regulations application, you may only do so after submitting a valid application. If you have submitted a 'full plans' application you do not have to wait for the plans to be approved, although you proceed at your own risk - there may be something wrong with the plans. If your 'full plans' application has been rejected, you may still start work, but be aware that there are elements of the plan which contravene the regulations. These items need to be addressed.

Once a building notice has been accepted or a full plans application has had a decision you have up to 3 years to start the work.

On commencement of works, the applicant must contact building control to arrange an inspection. Further contact must be made at all relevant stages through until completion to allow further inspections.

Starting work before an application has been submitted is a contravention of the regulations, and the building owner could be prosecuted.

Related Links

• Contact building control