Feedback
Back arrow, pointing left

How do I apply for building regulations completion certificate?

Work that requires building control approval will require a completion notice to be submitted to the building control body. The completion notice must be sent within five days of the work being completed, once submitted, the building control body can visit the site to complete a final inspection.

If the work meets the required standards they will issue a completion certificate.

Common Questions

Is planning permission needed for a shed in a conservation area?

A shed is classed as an outbuilding which falls under permitted development rights, meaning that it does not require an application for planning permission. They can be built in conservation areas provided they meet the limits set out in legislation.

Specifically on protected land, including conservation areas, no part of the outbuilding can be on the side or front elevation of the house.

A full list of limits and conditions can be read on our outbuildings common project.

Read the outbuildings common project guidance.

Do I need building control approval to remove all or part of an internal stud (partition) wall?

Removing a non-load bearing wall will likely not require building control approval provided it does not affect fire escape routes, ventilation, drainage or electrics.

It is best practice to get a report from a structural engineer to ensure the wall is non-load bearing prior to starting any work.

Do I need planning permission to extend my kitchen?

In many cases, you can extend a house without applying for planning permission by using what's known as permitted development rights, provided certain limits and conditions are met. However, if your plans go beyond these restrictions, you will likely need to apply for householder planning permission.

Read guidance on extensions.

See our extensions MiniGuide.

Do I need planning permission to add a small wooden canopy over my front door?

Adding a porch canopy is classed as permitted development provided it meets the limits and conditions set out in legislation. Where this is the case, no application for planning permission is required.

Porches must meet the following limits:

  • the ground floor area (measured externally) would not exceed three square metres.
  • no part would be more than three metres aboveground level (height needs to be measured in the same way as for a house extension).
  • no part of the porch would be within two metres of any boundary of the dwellinghouse and the highway.

Read our mini guide for additional information on installing a porch.

What permissions are needed, or regulations need to be met to install a stair lift?

Planning permission is not required for the installation of a stair lift, however, if you live in a listed building, you will have to apply for listed building consent for any significant works, whether internal or external.

Stairlifts must be installed in line with BS EN 81-40:2020 which focuses on safety requirements for the installation of stairlifts.

Ask another question

Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Propose a question to help us make Smart Search even smarter
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.