Building regulations are an important part of any project, whether it is an extension, a conversion, or a change in the housing landscape. A guideline that explains this in detail can be of great help, additional info?
In the construction of housing, there are standards that guarantee the safety and security for the residents. These are the building regulations of Berkshire that builders must adhere to. These are designed in accordance with the BRAL. The Housing Council constructs them and gets their approval from the Parliament.
If you want to build a new house, or alter an existing building, then following the building codes is essential. Construction companies that do not adhere to the building regulations are immediately blacklisted. You will be unable to complete any construction projects. You will lose clients everywhere. Some owners were even jailed, and fines were also demanded. It is not the same as a planning application. Their purpose and functionality are completely different. If you get one, that doesn’t mean you will also get the other.
Why comply with
You must comply with building regulations, and you should understand how they work. It is important to ensure that the project won’t face legal issues down the road. You can do this yourself or appoint an architect to take over the responsibility. You should supervise the project yourself to avoid any misunderstandings.
As the owner of the property, it is your responsibility to ensure that the house complies with Berkshire’s building codes.
Do You Need the Approval?
The approval is required for all construction projects listed below.
New Buildings
This includes all structures except those agro-based like barns, storehouses and other similar structures
Construction of garages and carports not fully detached or less than 30 sq. mt
B Extensions
The size of the extension (big or little)
Construction of porches or lofts
Construction of roof terraces and extensions
Basement construction or extension
C Conversions
Conversion of lofts or roods
Converting carport into garages
Barn conversions
Conversion of flats to a home
Conversion of energy efficiency of housing
Subdivision into flats of a whole house
Conversion of open spaces
Insulating the cavity wall
D : Alterations
Create a cloakroom or suite, an indoor swimming pool or a “granny annex”
Installing an open kitchen
Installing an air conditioning system
Remove a wall that is either load-bearing or non-bearing.
Installing skylights
Building foundations need to be underpinned
Turn doors & windows bigger
Replace fuse boxes and electrical installations
Renovations of the bathroom and kitchen
Take a floor job
Replace roofs and roof lights
Some of these work is carried out in accordance with the Berkshire building regulations. It is also recommended to consult a professional before starting the work.
The building controls include the following:
a) Replacement of sinks and bathtubs
b) General repairs and replacements, or other maintenance (including electrical fuseboxes, glazing units or fuel tanks).
c) Set your lighting and power outlets
After everything is sorted out, you need to obtain approval. If you have an insider, it will increase your chances of getting approval. To make the process easier, build a relationship with the regulatory board.
Considerations
You’ll also need to inform the HSE and perform other duties. It will be easy to get building regulations in Berkshire if everything goes your way.
Understanding the process of submitting, getting approvals and maintaining environmental standards & requirements is important. It is possible to obtain approval despite the complexity of the process. Understanding the requirements in advance will help you avoid potential complications. This guide is intended to be helpful.