Checking whether home building work needs official approval

For anyone browsing HubCage, here is a clear starting point on the subject.

Many home improvement projects must meet building regulations covering structure, fire safety, insulation, drainage and electrical work. Extensions, loft conversions, removing load-bearing walls and replacing windows often fall into this category, while simple redecoration usually does not. Planning permission is a separate question that concerns appearance and land use.

Check the rules with your local authority before work begins, because fixing unapproved work later can be expensive and may cause problems when the property is sold. Registered tradespeople can often certify their own work in areas such as electrics and heating. Keep every certificate and completion document together, since buyers and their solicitors will ask for them.