What is Building Control?

With all building work, the owner of the property in question is ultimately responsible for complying with the relevant Planning rules and Building Regulations

It is generally understood that a form of permission is required for building work or alterations to properties. However, it may not always be clear how the Planning and Building Regulations approval regimes differ.

Building Regulations set standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the safety and health of people in or about those buildings. They also include requirements to ensure that fuel and power is conserved and facilities are provided for people, including those with disabilities, to access and move around inside buildings.

Planning seeks to guide the way our towns, cities and countryside develop. This includes the use of land & buildings, the appearance of buildings, landscaping considerations, highway access and the impact that the development will have on the general environment.

For the installation of mezzanine floors, Buildings Regulations approval will be required, but Planning permission will generally not be, with a few exceptions e.g. in some areas planning permission should be sought if new external windows are part of the project.

How are Building Regulations relevant to the installation of mezzanine floors?

The relevant requirements of Schedule 1 (and Schedule 2 – Facilities for disabled people, if appropriate) applicable to mezzanines are as follows:

• Part A – Structure
• Part B – Fire
• Part K – Stairways, Ramps and Guards
• Part M – Disabled Access

The responsibility for checking that the Building Regulations have been met falls to Building Control bodies – either from the Local Authority or the private sector as an Approved Inspector.

Approved Inspectors are companies or individuals authorised under the Building Act 1984 to carry out Building Control work in England and Wales.

The plans submission and approval should be undertaken at an early stage (prior to commencement of work on site). This will avoid any problems and costs that may be incurred at a later date.

Advantage use a reliable and experienced Approved Inspector and offer this service as part of our package at a modest additional fee.