Building Regulations Checker
A few short questions about your home and your plans, turned into an early, plain-English indication of whether Building Regulations approval is likely to be required.
Before you start
Building Regulations set the minimum standards for the safety, structure, insulation and services of building work. They are entirely separate from planning permission — plenty of projects need one, the other, both, or neither.
This checker asks only the key questions needed for an early indication. Nothing is saved and you do not need an account.
Use the tool
Your results
Answer the questions above and select “Check my project” — your indication will appear here.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between planning permission and Building Regulations?
Planning permission is about whether the work is acceptable in its setting — size, appearance and impact on neighbours. Building Regulations are about how it is built: structure, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, drainage and electrical safety. They are separate approvals and you may need one, both or neither.
Does this checker confirm whether I need approval?
No. It gives an early indication based on general rules. Only your local authority Building Control team or an approved inspector can confirm what your specific project needs.
What is a competent person scheme?
Registered installers in schemes such as those covering electrics, heating and window replacement can self-certify their own work and notify Building Control on your behalf, so a separate application is often unnecessary. Always keep the certificate they issue.
What happens if work was done without approval?
It usually shows up when you sell. A regularisation application can bring historic work into compliance retrospectively, though parts may need to be opened up for inspection.
Do the same rules apply across the UK?
No. England and Wales have their own guidance, Scotland uses a building warrant system applied for before work starts, and Northern Ireland has separate regulations administered by district councils.
Ask Mason
Ask Mason about your building regulations result
Get tailored, plain-English guidance for your home and situation — in under two minutes.
Recommended next steps
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Building Regulations Explained
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Read guideRecommended tools
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Open toolYou may also need
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BuildGuide tools provide early guidance only. They are not a formal planning decision, legal opinion or professional design.