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Kettering Borough Council

Frequently Asked Questions: Building control

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Building control FAQs

Q: What is my postcode?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to build an extension to my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to convert my loft into a room?

Answer:
  • All loft conversions require approval under the Building Regulations. Loft Conversions are not as easy to construct as may be suggested.
  • They can be very complex and the design needs to consider:

    1. Structural stability,
    2. Fire resistance/protection,
    3. Escape window,
    4. Smoke detection,
    5. A protected stairway enclosure and
    6. A fixed stairway to the new floor.
    7. Thermal insulation,
    8. Sound insulation,
    9. Ventilation
    10. Weather resistance

Detailed plans are required for this work to ensure the loft can be constructed.

  • Where the existing loft space is to be used for domestic storage only with access via a loft hatch and no constructional work being undertaken, an application is not required. (This is assuming that the ceiling joists are already of a size suitable for domestic storage loading).

Q: Do I need approval to convert my garage into a habitable room?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to make internal alterations within my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to install cavity insulation into my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a detached garage?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a carport?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to provide a covered yard or covered way to my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a porch?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a conservatory?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a small, detached building on my land?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to install new or replacement windows to my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to carry out repairs to my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to convert my house into flats?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to underpin my house?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to construct a boundary wall?

Q: Do I need Building Regulation Approval to install fittings and appliances or carry out drainage work?

Q: Do I need Building Regulations approval for electrical work?

Q: Can I access a Building Regulation application form online?

Q: How can I get access to the Building Regulations documents?

Q: Can you give me the name of a good architect or builder?

Q: How long do I have to start work after my plans have been fully approved?

Q: What are the rules in relation to gas boilers?

Q: What is the difference between Building Regulation and Planning permission?

Q: If you do not check plans on Building Notice applications, why are the charges the same as for Full Plans Applications?

Q: If I make a Building Notice application, will the Building Control Officer tell me how to carry out the work during his first visit?

Q: Is a completion certificate the same as a guarantee or warranty?

Q: What if things go wrong?

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