Summary
Understanding the Difference: One of the most crucial takeaways is the distinction between Building Control Approval and Planning Permission. These are separate requirements, each with its own focus and regulations.
Safety First: Building Control Approval primarily deals with the safety, health, and welfare of individuals in and around the building. This includes structural stability, fire safety, and energy conservation.
Aesthetic and Environmental Impact: Planning Permission is concerned with the broader impacts of the development on its surroundings, including the use of land, appearance of buildings, and environmental considerations.
Seek Professional Guidance: It is highly recommended to consult with local Building Control and Planning Departments before starting any work. This ensures that all required permissions are obtained, and that the project complies with all regulations.
Internal vs. External Work: Not all building work requires both types of approvals. Internal alterations, for example, typically only need Building Regulations Approval, whereas external changes might require both.
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Last week, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Sarah Jenkins, a homeowner who recently navigated the intricate process of getting approvals for her home renovation. Sarah’s experience offers valuable insights and practical advice for anyone considering building work or alterations to their property.
Sarah’s journey began with a desire to extend her kitchen and add a conservatory to her home. “I had this vision of a larger, more open kitchen space with a beautiful conservatory where we could enjoy our garden all year round,” she explained, her eyes lighting up with enthusiasm. But she quickly realised that her dream project wouldn’t be as straightforward as she had imagined.
“The first thing I learned was that I needed two different types of approvals: Building Control Approval and Planning Permission,” Sarah recounted. “At first, I thought they were the same thing, but they have very distinct purposes.”
Building Control Approval, Sarah discovered, focuses on the safety and structural integrity of the building. “It’s all about making sure that whatever you build is safe and meets certain standards. This includes everything from fire safety to energy efficiency,” she explained. “For example, they checked if the new structure would be stable, if it had adequate fire exits, and if it was insulated properly.”
On the other hand, Planning Permission is concerned with the broader impact of the development. “This is where you have to consider how your changes will affect the look of the neighbourhood, the environment, and even things like road access,” Sarah said. “The planning department wanted to know if my conservatory would blend in with the rest of the houses and if it would have any negative impact on the environment or local wildlife.”
Navigating these requirements can be daunting, but Sarah emphasised the importance of seeking professional guidance. “The best decision I made was to contact my local Building Control and Planning Departments early on. They were incredibly helpful in explaining what I needed and guiding me through the process,” she noted.
One of the key pieces of advice Sarah received was to distinguish between internal and external work. “For my kitchen extension, which involved structural changes, I needed both Building Control Approval and Planning Permission. However, for some internal alterations, I only needed Building Regulations Approval,” she explained. “It’s crucial to understand what kind of work you’re doing and what approvals are necessary.”
The process, while comprehensive, was ultimately rewarding. “Yes, it required a lot of paperwork and patience, but it was worth it knowing that my home is safe, compliant with all regulations, and beautifully integrated into the community,” Sarah reflected.
In conclusion, Sarah’s experience underscores the importance of understanding the distinct roles of Building Control Approval and Planning Permission. “Don’t shy away from getting the right approvals. It might seem like a hassle, but it’s there to ensure everything is done correctly and safely,” she advised.
For anyone embarking on a similar journey, Sarah’s final piece of advice is to stay informed and proactive. “Do your homework, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help. It can save you a lot of headaches down the line,” she said with a reassuring smile.
Interviewing Sarah Jenkins provided a wealth of practical knowledge and underscored the importance of thorough preparation and understanding when it comes to home renovations. Her experience serves as a valuable guide for anyone looking to embark on their own building projects.
Marcia Wilson
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