What is Building Control?

The Building Control process is a legal requirement that must be obtained before carrying out work that involves the erection, extension or alteration of a building. The process ensures that building work is carried out in compliance with the Building Regulations and allied legislation.

Building Control Approval should not be confused with Planning Permission and vice versa.

Planning permission: relates to the appearance of the development and its impact on neighbouring properties and the surrounding area. To see if a planning application is required and for further information relating to the Planning process, see:

• Planning applications and planning permission

Building Control Approval: Building Regulations promote minimum standards for most aspects of a building's construction. They include the energy efficiency in buildings, the needs of all people, including those with disabilities, in accessing and moving around buildings.

Examples of where an application is required are: extensions, loft conversions and structural alterations. For further information please use the interactive house tool below:

• Interactive house tool, and common building projects - on the Planning Portal website

See also:

• Building Regulations - on the Planning Portal website

Adur & Worthing Councils also have guides containing information about extending or renovating your home, see:

• Common building projects

See also:

• Building Regulations - on the GOV.UK website
• About Building Control, advice for Homeowners - on the LABC website

Back to top