Building Regulations

[evie2468]

Can anyone tell me what happens when you apply for building regs and have the architect do the drawings, but then you come across an issue and the builder has to make minor changes, which will effectively change the building reg submitted. Do you have to resubmit that portion? Or do you just discuss with building inspector and they note the changes?

Thanks

It really depends on the issue... In my case, the Building Control Surveyor has visited a number of times, and mostly it has been fine if small things have been altered - for example a different roof covering was fine. But if I'd decided to remove an additional wall it would have meant resubmitting. Can you be more specific?

Thanks for reply. It may be a couple of things 1) the outside wall is close to boundary, so builder may bring in to allow room to render outside rather than have small 15 cm gap. 2) The leading on extension roof is just within the recommended amount, but builder may recommend a cavity tray, but at the moment we going on plans without as it meets the regs.

Those sound like fairly minor issues. It's not uncommon for small things to be changed at the suggestion of your builder, because plans are usually drawn up by architects, who may know less about the detail of building work (in my experience), and can't anticipate every issue that will arise as the works progress. Have a word with your builder and see if he thinks it is necessary to ask Building Control whether they are happy with the proposed approach. I found BC to be very helpful, and willing to visit the site to check things if required. But these issues may be so minor that it isn't necessary - see what the builder says.

Do you have a Party Wall Award in place for the outside wall? If the neighbours consented and it was never going to be attached to the other side and the foundations aren't that deep, then you probably don't, but if you do, you might want to run it past the PW Surveyor to make sure they are happy with the approach. I don't see why they wouldn't be, but if what is happening is different to what is specified in the PWA you want to be covered.

Thanks for the reassurance. We have spoken to a few builders but not inspected yet. They want bld reg drawings before then quote. I am aware of the necessity of looking into a party wall agreement but not moved on yet with that one.