Applying for Building Regulations Approval using a Building Notice Submission

If you choose this option, no detailed plans are required as the emphasis is on site supervision. You simply need to fill out a form advising us of your intention to carry out building work and supply the appropriate charge.

This type of application CANNOT be used for any commercial works.

The Building Notice is particularly suited to simple domestic schemes such as internal alterations and small extensions, and when the persons responsible for the execution are conversant with the requirements of the regulations.
Plans/details may be requested in some situations (e.g. structural calculations for loft conversions/through rooms etc.), but only when absolutely necessary. Without plans there is no detailed check of the work before it is carried out and therefore no official decision notice is issued.

Whilst the Building Control Surveyor will try to anticipate potential problems it is ultimately the responsibility of the person carrying out the work to ensure that the requirements of the regulations are satisfied.

Advantages of the Building Notice
a) You can save time and money by not having to prepare and submit detailed plans.

Disadvantages of the Building Notice
a) You don’t have an approved plan to work to. Although our surveyor will try to prepare for possible problems, if the work does not meet the regulations, there may be a delay while the work is corrected.
b) Building estimates may not be accurate because full information about the design is not available.

Download a Building Notice Application Form

Payable Fees
Fees are payable for work undertaken by the Building Control Surveyors in relation to Building Regulation applications.

The Building Notice Fee: This is payable on submission of the application to the Building Control Office.

If the work is solely for the benefit of a disabled person then you may be exempt from the payment of fees. To be eligible for exemption you will need to provide a letter from Lancashire County Council Social Services Department stating that the person who lives at the property is registered or registerable as disabled.