Planning permission focuses on how the building will look, while building regulations cover how the building is constructed to ensure it meets safety and performance standards.

A building inspector oversees the project to ensure compliance with current regulations. At the end of the build, they issue a completion certificate confirming everything meets the required standards.

If you’re working with CarlM Design, our admin team will handle the building control application for you, making the process simple and hassle-free.

This is usually arranged by your contractor, often at key stages such as after excavations have been completed.

They include all the detailed information and dimensions needed for construction, ensuring the project complies with current building standards.

Yes, this service is included in our fee.

Approval typically takes around one month.

This depends on the current fees set by the relevant building control authority.

In practice, both perform the same role. However, some builders prefer to work with certain inspectors based on familiarity and experience.

We can recommend reliable building control officers we have worked with previously.

This is normally arranged by the contractor at key stages of construction.

Yes, we liaise directly with building control as part of our service.

We review the requirements and make the necessary technical adjustments to ensure compliance.

No, the approval process cannot usually be fast-tracked.

Yes. Most projects require building regulations approval, even smaller works.

Yes, both types of projects require building regulations approval.

If a builder makes changes without approval from the building inspector or designer, they are financially responsible for correcting the work.

Yes, we support you through the process until the final completion certificate is granted.

The completion certificate confirms that all works have been carried out in accordance with current building regulations. This document is essential if you decide to sell your property in the future, as buyers and solicitors will request proof that the works were approved and compliant.