Building regulations ensure a building is accessible to all and safe for use, while making sure your home is energy efficient.
Local Authority Building Control (LABC) front door
As a homeowner, you're responsible for your home and any building work. Works to your home, including minor home improvements, will most likely need approval.
We encourage you to review the information set out on the LABC Front door website
You can:
- use the Ask Anna chat service
- check their building control FAQs
- submit an enquiry for free, independent and expert advice
What common home improvements require approval?
Most house extensions will require approval.
Other popular home improvements that require approval include:
- loft conversions
- dormer window or roof light installation
- structural alterations such as the removal of a load bearing wall or chimney breast
- new electrical installations
- plastering to more than 25% of a wall
- work on, or new doors or windows in, a load bearing wall
- new bathrooms
- staircase repositioning
- window and door replacement by non BSI, CERTASS or FENSA approved installers
- new chimney or flue installations and flue works
- underpinning of foundations
- re-roofing to more than 25% of the roof
- septic tank installations
- cavity wall insulation
This is not a complete list and you should make your own checks before starting works to your property.
What common home improvements do not require approval?
Some common improvements do not require approval, such as:
- all work completed by a member of a Competent Person Scheme
- most conservatories, car ports, detached garages and porches
- typical garden sheds
- garden fences and walls
If you’re unsure whether you need approval, it’s always best to contact us to check.
Planning Portal
The Planning Portal is also a good source of information for many areas of building regulations approval and planning permission.
With easy-to-understand online manuals and interactive guides, common home refurbishment projects are well covered.
Get in touch
If you require further support, please:
- email buildingcontrol@solihull.gov.uk
- call 0121 704 8008