What to do if work is already complete
If you've carried out work without building regulation permission, you may still be able to make an application for a Regularisation Certificate. Doing so allows us to consider work which has been carried out and completed, without the submission of plans or giving notice at the time of the works.
Applying
You are under no obligation to make an application for a Regularisation Certificate. And we are under no obligation to accept it. Steps to making an application:
You will also need to supply the information on the attached form.
Request a quote for your project
Please note, the Regularisation Charge will not be refunded, as the charge is payable for the inspection of the site works, and not for the issuing of the Regularisation Certificate.
What happens if I do work without approval?
We have to ensure that building work complies with the regulations. We have powers of enforcement to make sure that this happens. If the work does not comply, you may be asked to alter or remove it. Visit the Planning Portal website for an explanation of what happens if the requirements of the building regulations are not met by a development.
Working without approval can also affect the sale of your property. We provide information to companies undertaking land search enquiries. Evidence of work completed without approval may prevent or complicate the sale.
Why shouldn't I just do the work without telling you?
You should avoid taking this route as:
- It is illegal for you to do so and we might decide to take enforcement action
- It is more difficult, inconvenient and expensive for you to correct any faults when the work is completed and in use
- It is likely a delay will occur in selling your property
- It is likely you will cause damage by opening it up for inspection
Even if you do gain a Regularisation Certificate, it does not remove our powers to take enforcement action should we find it necessary. This may be necessary to ensure your safety or that of the public. You should not assume that applying for and receiving a Regularisation Certificate will make you safe from enforcement action. This is less likely to happen where you do so. As such, it is always better to gain permission before proceeding with work than to simply apply for a Regularisation Certificate afterwards.
What do I need in order to sell my property?
If you sell your property, you will almost certainly be asked to provide a Completion Certificate for any work done to which the building regulations apply. You may have difficulty completing the sale if this is not available. It is important to note the difference between a Completion Certificate and an Application for Building Control Approval with Full Plans Approval Notice:
- The Approval Notice confirms the work would comply with the building regulations if it were carried out in accordance with the drawings
- The Completion Certificate indicates that the finished work; as far as can reasonably be ascertained complies with the building regulations
