Frequently Asked Questions – Blaby District Council

Do I need to make an application to build an extension to my house?

Yes, unless the building is an exempt building. Please check our exempt buildings and works page.

Do I need to make an application to construct rooms in my roof space?

Yes, for further information on converting your roof space please check our information on loft conversion guidance.

Do I need to make an application to convert my garage to habitable accommodation?

Yes, for further information on converting your garage please check our information on garage conversion guidance.

Do I need to make an application to make internal alterations within my house?

Yes, if the alterations are of a structural nature that is the removal or part removal of a load-bearing wall, partition, beam or chimney breast or the removal of a non-loadbearing wall enclosing the stair/hall. The insertion of a beam or lintel which affects the structural stability of the building will also require approval. If in doubt seek advice from a Building Control Surveyor.

Do I need to make an application to insert cavity wall insulation?

Yes, but if you use an “approved installer” all procedural matters will be dealt with as a matter of course.

Do I need to make an application to underpin my house?

Yes, this is a structural alteration.

Do I need to make an application to construct a detached garage?

No, provided it is of single-storey construction, having an internal floor area not exceeding 30 square meters and is either situated more than one metre from the boundary or is constructed substantially of non-combustible materials. All notifiable electrical work must be installed by a person registered with a Competent Person’s Scheme for Part P – Electrical Safety.

Do I need to make an application to erect a carport?

No, provided the internal floor area does not exceed 30 square metres, open on at least two sides and is single storey.

Do I need to make an application to erect a conservatory?

No, provided the internal floor area does not exceed 30 square metres, has a roof of transparent or translucent material and all glazing satisfies the requirements of Part N of Schedule 1 of the Building Regulations 2000.

The separation must be maintained between the new conservatory and the house, the heating from the main house is not extended into the conservatory and all notifiable electrical work is installed by a person registered with a Competent Person’s Scheme for Part P – Electrical Safety.

Do I need to make an application to convert my house into flats?

Yes, you will need to make a building regulations application.

Do I need to make an application to install or replace electrical wiring?

No, provided all notifiable electrical work is installed by a person registered with a Competent Person’s Scheme for Part P – Electrical Safety, otherwise, an application will be required.

Do I need to make an application to carry out repairs to my house?

No - provided the repairs are of a minor nature and you are replacing like for like.

Yes - if the repair involves removing a major part of a wall and rebuilding it and where repair works involve the removal, alteration or replacement of any of the building’s thermal elements. This could involve the installation of wall/ceiling finishes and replacement of flat and pitched roof coverings.

It may be necessary to upgrade the building’s thermal insulation when carrying out these works.

Do I need to make an application to install fittings and appliances within my house?

No - If installing or altering the position of a w.c or bath, unless the work involves new drainage or plumbing.

Yes - If you intend to install or alter the position of the following heating appliances:

Gas - Unless the work is undertaken by a person approved by the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1984
Solid Fuel
Oil

Yes - If you install an unvented (under direct mains pressure) hot water storage

Do I need to make an application to erect a porch?

No, provided that the internal floor area of the porch does not exceed 30 square metres, the original house access door remains in place and any glazing is toughened or laminated.

Do I need to make an application to erect a fence or boundary wall?

No, disabled access into the dwelling should not be worsened by any of these works.

Do I need to make an application to refit my kitchen?

Yes, if there are any structural alterations, new drainage or electrical installations unless the electrical work is installed by a person registered with a Competent Person’s Scheme for Part P – Electrical Safety.

Can a Building Control Surveyor recommend a suitable builder?

We do not recommend builders. It is important to select a builder by talking to previous clients. Please also consider the following:

Low estimates are not always an assurance of a good deal
You should agree on the extent of the works with your builder at the outset by agreeing on a simple contract with your selected builder
This contract can include, for example, the estimate, likely duration of the works and details of when payments are due
As soon as the works are completed to Building Control's satisfaction they will issue a Completion Certificate. Try to agree with your builder to defer your final payment until they have issued their Certificate

Why does the Building Control Surveyor always talk to the builder and not directly to me?

Many clients prefer Building Control to deal directly with the builder if you wish to be involved in any on-site discussions please make them aware from the outset. If at any time you wish to talk to a Building Control Surveyor in confidence please do not hesitate to contact Building Control direct using the contact details in your application paperwork.