The
Building Control Service
(Building Control Authority)
The Building Control Service amongst other things administers the Building Regulations by the passing of plans and checking of building works on site.
In Wealden the Building Control Service deals with:
- Dangerous Structures
- Demolitions
- Disability Access
- Structural Design
- Building over Sewers - Drainage
- Local Acts
What buildings do the Building Regulations apply to?
Apart from electrical safety (domestic only), the regulations apply to all types of buildings ie offices, shops, houses, public assemblies, leisure facilities, public houses, restaurants etc.
There are however minor exemptions in relation to certain domestic structures (always check with the Building Control Authority if you are in any doubt)
How do I gain permission under the Building Regulations?
Either by:
Building Regulations cover a range of minimum standards in the construction, alterations and conversion of buildings. They are:-
Structure |
structural stability of the building |
Fire Safety |
which includes means of escape, fire protection and access
for the Fire Brigade |
Resistance to moisture and Protection to Contaminates |
how buildings are weatherproofed and how they can avoid
contaminates affecting the health of users/occupiers of buildings |
Toxic Substances |
regulating the type of materials which can be built into
a building which could cause harm to the occupiers |
Sound Insulation |
ensuring that buidings have adequate sound insulation between
uses and occupants |
Ventilation |
the provision of adequate ventilation for buildings both
to provide a healthy environment and to ensure condensation
etc. does not harm the fabric of the building |
Hygiene |
ensuring there is adequate WC provision, washing facilities
etc. |
Drainage |
ensuring the drainage system in relation to both soil (waste
water/WC) and rain water is correctly discharged and dealt
with (includes provision on septic tanks and building over
sewers) |
Heat Producing Appliances |
Requirements on flues ventilation, boilers, fires etc |
Protection against falling |
measures to maintain safety in relation to stairs and the
guarding of balconies etc. |
Energy Conservation |
Requirements on buildings to ensure that they are sustainable
with regard to their energy requirements |
Access |
requires buidings when they are newly erected, altered etc.
to provide adequate access and facilities for the disabled
and other users |
Glazing |
measures to ensure glazing is safe |
Electrical Wiring |
requires electrical installation in domestic premises to
be correctly installed and checked |