Building Regulations – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

What Are Building Regulations?

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

What are Building Regulations? UK rules for safe, efficient, structurally sound building work.

Building Regulations are the UK’s legal minimum standards for health, safety, energy efficiency and structural performance in building work. While planning permission focuses on how your project looks and how it affects the surrounding area, building regulations focus on how it is built — ensuring your extension, loft conversion or alteration is safe, compliant, and suitable for construction.

In most cases, Building Regulations approval is required for residential projects such as:

House extensions (single storey or double storey)
Loft conversions and dormers
Garage conversions
Structural alterations (removing walls / installing beams)
Basement conversions
New builds and major refurbishments

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

Why Building Regulations drawings are needed for approval, pricing accuracy and smoother builds.

Building regulations drawings are detailed technical plans prepared to demonstrate compliance and support:
✅ Building Control approval (Local Authority or Approved Inspector)
✅ Accurate builder pricing (reducing unknowns and unexpected costs)
✅ Clear construction guidance on site
✅ Reduced delays and fewer site queries
✅ A smoother inspection process during the build

Without a full building regulations package, builders are often forced to work from basic planning drawings, which can lead to:

incorrect assumptions
delays during inspections
higher build costs due to missing detail
unexpected redesigns once construction has started

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Planning Permission = external impact, design, neighbourhood considerations

Building Regulations = safety, performance, compliance, construction standards

Most projects require both, and Building Regulations typically comes after planning approval (or alongside it where permitted development applies).

Key Differences

✅ Planning checks what you want to build
✅ Building Regs checks how you will build it

What They Cover

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Planning Permission typically covers:

Size, height and design of the extension/loft
Materials and appearance
Overlooking / privacy / neighbour impact
Parking, access and street scene

Building Regulations typically covers:

Structural stability (beams, foundations, load paths)
Fire safety and escape routes
Insulation and energy efficiency (Part L)
Ventilation and drainage (Parts F & H)
Stairs, guarding and access (Parts K & M)

When You Need Them

Many projects need both
Permitted Development may avoid planning, but Building Regulations still apply
Building Regs approval is usually needed before construction starts

MyHomePlans provides both planning drawings and building regulations drawing packages, delivered 100% online for projects across the UK.

need some help?

Speak to MyHomePlans for free expert guidance on Building Regulations drawings and compliance.

We’ll review your questions and respond ASAP.

📞 WhatsApp / Phone: 07835 743338
📧 Email: hello@myhomeplans.co.uk
🌍 100% online service – worldwide

What’s Needed for Building Regulations Approval

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

These are the drawings MyHomePlans prepares, usually including:

Detailed floor plans, elevations and sections
Construction build-ups (walls, floors, roof details)
Insulation and thermal performance notes
Fire safety, ventilation and compliance annotations
Drainage and foul/waste layouts (where required)
Key dimensions and construction specifications

2) Structural Calculations (Where Required)

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

Many projects require structural design input, especially where steel beams or new openings are involved. Structural calculations may be needed for:

RSJs / steel beams
loft conversions
removing load-bearing walls
large openings / bifold doors
new floor structures

MyHomePlans can coordinate your drawings with an engineer where required to ensure everything ties together correctly.

3) Building Control Submission Route

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

3) Building Control Submission Route

There are usually two submission options:

Full Plans Application (recommended) – drawings checked and approved before work starts
Building Notice (less detailed upfront) – approval happens through inspections on site

Most homeowners choose Full Plans because it provides clearer approval and fewer surprises during construction.

The MyHomePlans Building Regulations Process (Step-by-Step)

Architect reviews Building Regs drawings with digital icons for structure, fire safety and drainage.

Step 1 – Project Review & Information Collection

You send us what you have, such as:

existing plans (if available)
sketches or ideas
photos of the property
planning approval drawings (if already granted)

If you don’t have drawings, we can still proceed using your measurements or a survey option.

Architect prepares Building Regs drawings with CAD plans, technical notes and beam sizing icons.

Step 2 – Technical Design & Compliance Planning

We assess how the project will comply with key Building Regulations requirements, including:

structural stability
insulation and energy efficiency
ventilation and moisture control
fire safety and escape routes
drainage and sanitation requirements

Step 3 – Production of Building Regulations Drawings

We prepare your detailed building control drawing pack with the technical notes and construction information required for approval and building on site.

Step 4 – Coordination With Structural Engineer (If Needed)

If structural calculations are required, we coordinate with the engineer so:

beam sizes and positions match the drawings
structural notes align with Building Control expectations
everything is consistent for site use

Step 5 – Submission to Building Control

You can either:

submit the package yourself, or
choose MyHomePlans to assist and guide you through the submission route.

Step 6 – Approval & Construction Support

Once approved, your builder can use the package as the main construction reference. During the build, Building Control will inspect key stages such as:

foundations
drainage
insulation
structural elements
completion sign-off

If Building Control requests clarifications, we can help with updates and responses to keep the project moving.

Full Plans vs Building Notice (Which Should You Choose?)

There are two main ways to apply for

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

There are two main ways to apply for

There are two main ways to apply for Building Regulations approval:

✅ Full Plans Application (Recommended)

Drawings are checked and approved before work starts
Clearer approval route
Better for builder pricing and project certainty
Fewer surprises during construction

⚠️ Building Notice

Less detail submitted upfront
Compliance checked through inspections on site
Can lead to unexpected changes mid-build
Not ideal for complex projects

Most homeowners choose Full Plans for a smoother approval process.

What We Need From You (Checklist)

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

There are two main ways to apply for

To produce your building regulations drawings, we typically need:

Property address and brief description
Existing plans (if available)
Photos (front, rear, and internal where possible)
Any sketches or layout ideas
Planning approval drawings (if approved already)
Builder notes or engineer details (if you have them)

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything — we can still advise you and tell you what’s needed.

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

MyHomePlans prepares detailed building regulations drawings designed to support building control approval and construction on site. These technical drawing packages demonstrate how your project complies with the UK Building Regulations and provide builders with clear, build-ready information.

Building regulations drawings are a crucial stage following planning approval and are required for most residential building projects.

What Our Building Regulations Drawing Packages Include

Detailed construction plans and sections
Structural layouts (coordinated with engineers where required)
Insulation, thermal performance, and fire safety details
Drainage, ventilation, and compliance notes
Drawings suitable for local authority or approved inspector submission

Built for Compliance and Practical Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Our drawings are prepared with a strong understanding of building control requirements and real-world construction methods. This ensures a smoother approval process and reduces queries during construction.

All building regulations drawings are delivered through our fully remote online architectural design service, providing efficiency, clarity, and professional results for projects across the UK.

Typical Timescales

We offer clear turnaround options depending on your deadline:

Standard: 10–15 working days
Fast Track: 5–7 working days (optional upgrade)
Urgent: 48–72 hours (subject to availability)

Building Regulations Drawings – Fixed Fees

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

MyHomePlans offers building regulations drawing packages on a fixed-fee basis, depending on project size and complexity.

Typical fees from:

Small projects: from £950
Medium projects: from £1,250
Large projects: from £1,750
New builds: from £2,500

To get an exact quote, send your project details and we’ll confirm your fixed fee.

📞 WhatsApp / Phone: 07835 743338
📧 Email: hello@myhomeplans.co.uk

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

✅Included In your Building Regulations package:

Building Regulations drawings suitable for Building Control
Plans, elevations and sections
Key construction notes and compliance annotations
Insulation and performance details
Coordination notes for builders and approval

➕ Not included unless requested:

Structural calculations (engineer)
Party wall matters
SAP / overheating calculations (if required)
Site inspections (these are carried out by Building Control)

✅ What’s Included in a MyHomePlans Building Regulations Pack

(Drawing Issue Checklist)

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

✅ What’s Included in a MyHomePlans Building Regulations Pack (Drawing Issue Checklist)

Designed for Building Control + Built for Site Use

MyHomePlans Building Regulations packs are created to:

✅ support Building Control plan-check approval

✅ reduce construction delays and compliance queries

✅ provide clear technical detail for builders

✅improve pricing accuracy and reduce unknowns

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

✅ Existing / Proposed Floor Plans (dimensioned)

✅ Existing / Proposed Elevations (where required)
✅ Existing / Proposed Sections (key compliance sections through works)
✅ Key Dimensions & Levels (F.F.Ls, ceiling heights where required)
✅ Room Use / Layout Notes (where relevant to compliance)

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

✅ Loadbearing Wall / Opening Identification
✅ Beam / Lintel Positioning Notes (subject to structural design)
✅ Padstone / Bearing Notes (where applicable)
✅ Floor Joist Direction Notes (where relevant)
✅Stability / Support Notes (project dependent)

📌 Structural calculations are provided by an engineer where required and coordinated into the pack.

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

Typical Foundation Detail (depth subject to Building Control / ground conditions)
✅ Substructure Wall / DPC / DPM Notes
✅ Ground Floor Build-Up Detail (solid or suspended)
✅ Thermal Break / Insulation at Perimeter Notes (Part L)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

✅ Typical Cavity Wall Detail

internal finish
blockwork / studwork
insulation thickness and type
cavity width
external leaf finish (brick/render etc.)

✅ Wall Tie / Cavity Closure Notes (where required)
✅ Thermal Bridging Notes (general compliance guidance)

5) Roof Construction Details (Part L / Weathering)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

✅ Roof Build-Up Detail Sheet including (as applicable):

warm roof / cold roof arrangement
insulation thickness and ventilation zones
vapour control layer notes
roof covering notes

✅ Flat Roof Detail (if applicable)
✅ Dormer Construction Notes (if applicable)

6) Openings, Lintels & Glazing Notes

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

✅ Lintel Notes (typical)
✅ Window / Door Safety Glazing Notes (where required)
✅ Ventilation Provision Notes (trickle vents / purge ventilation)
✅ Thermal Performance Notes (Part L compliance guidance)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

✅ Fire Safety Notes Page (project dependent) including:

smoke alarm / heat alarm requirements
escape route guidance (especially loft conversions)
fire door requirements (where applicable)
fire protection to structural elements
cavity barrier notes (where required)

8) Ventilation (Part F)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

9) Drainage & Waste (Part H)

✅ Ventilation Strategy Notes including:

kitchen extract requirements
bathroom extract requirements
background ventilation guidance
purge ventilation guidance

9) Drainage & Waste (Part H)

11) Access & Use (Part M) (Where Applicable)

9) Drainage & Waste (Part H)

✅ Drainage Schematic / Drainage Layout (where applicable)

foul drainage connections
rainwater discharge notes
soil vent pipe notes
rodding access / maintenance guidance

10) Stairs, Guarding & Safety (Part K)

11) Access & Use (Part M) (Where Applicable)

✅ Staircase Compliance Notes (where applicable)

rise/going guidance
headroom requirements
handrails and guarding notes

11) Access & Use (Part M) (Where Applicable)

✅ Access Guidance Notes (project dependent)

entrance thresholds
WC layout considerations
general usability guidance

12) Insulation & Specification Summary (Part L)

✅ Insulation Specification Schedule including:

walls
roof
floors
thermal upgrades (where required)

✅ Energy Efficiency Notes (general compliance guidance)

13) General Compliance Notes Page

✅ Building Regulations Compliance Notes Sheet including typical references to:

Part A (Structure)
Part B (Fire Safety)
Part F (Ventilation)
Part H (Drainage)
Part K (Stairs/Guarding)
Part L (Energy/Insulation)
Part M (Access) (if applicable)

14) Issue Sheet / Drawing Register

✅ Drawing Title Block + Revision Control
✅ Drawing Register / Sheet Index (so builders and Building Control can follow the pack easily)

✅ Designed for Building Control + Built for Site Use

❌ What’s NOT Included (Unless Requested)

Structural & Engineering

Energy & Performance Reports

To keep fees fair and fixed, the following items are not automatically included in every MyHomePlans Building Regulations package — but can be added where required:

➕ Structural calculations / engineer certification (RSJs, lintels, dormers, floor strengthening)
➕ Beam sizing / padstone design (engineer-led)
➕ Temporary works design (builder responsibility)

Energy & Performance Reports

➕ SAP calculations / EPC modelling (new builds / major works)
➕ Overheating calculations (Part O) (where required)
➕ Air tightness testing (site testing)

Specialist Surveys / Reports

Energy & Performance Reports

Specialist Surveys / Reports

➕ Measured survey (if no dimensions are provided)
➕ Drainage CCTV survey (if required)
➕ Tree report / arboricultural survey (planning related)
➕ Flood risk assessment (planning related)

Legal / Neighbour Matters

On-Site / Construction Services

Specialist Surveys / Reports

➕ Party Wall Award / notices (separate legal process)
➕ Land Registry boundary checks (client responsibility)

On-Site / Construction Services

➕ Site inspections (carried out by Building Control)
➕ Clerk of works / project management
➕ Builder supply / contractor appointment

EXTRA DESIGN / VISUAL SERVICES

➕3D visuals / CGI renders
➕ Interior design packages
➕ Multiple redesign options beyond agreed scope

✅ Need a Complete Package?

On-Site / Construction Services

If your project needs structural calculations or extra compliance reports,

MyHomePlans can advise and coordinate the correct add-ons.

📞 WhatsApp / Phone: 07835 743338
📧 Email: hello@myhomeplans.co.uk

Building Regulations Drawings – FAQs

Please reach us at FAQ@myhomeplans.co.uk if you cannot find an answer to your question.

Do I need building regulations drawings after planning approval?

Yes — in most cases. Planning permission confirms the proposal is acceptable in principle (appearance, impact, policy compliance), but Building Regulations approval confirms the design is technically compliant and buildable.

Building Regulations drawings are typically required for:

extensions (single storey and double storey)
loft conversions and dormers
garage conversions
structural alterations (steel beams, openings, wall removals)
new builds and major refurbishments

Even where planning isn’t required (e.g. Permitted Development), Building Regulations often still apply.

Are your drawings suitable for Building Control submission and approval?

Yes. MyHomePlans produces Building Control-ready technical drawing packages suitable for submission to:

Local Authority Building Control (LABC), or
Approved Inspectors

Our drawing packs are prepared in a clear “Full Plans” format and typically include:

dimensioned GA plans and sections
construction build-ups (walls, floors, roofs)
insulation specifications and performance notes
ventilation and drainage requirements
compliance annotations and key technical notes

This helps reduce back-and-forth queries and supports a smoother approval route.

Do you include structural calculations and steel beam design?

Structural calculations are not always required, but they are commonly needed where the project involves structural change, including:

removal of loadbearing walls
steel beams (RSJs) and lintels
large openings (bifold doors / sliding doors)
loft floor strengthening
dormer structural framing
new padstones / bearings
altered roof structures

Where required, we can coordinate with a structural engineer so that:

beam sizes and locations align with the architectural drawings
structural notes match Building Control expectations
layouts are practical for installation on site

What level of construction detail is included in your Building Regulations package?

Our Building Regulations drawings are prepared to provide practical construction guidance and demonstrate compliance. Depending on project scope, packs can include:

proposed plans and sections with key dimensions
typical wall build-ups (inner leaf / cavity / insulation / outer leaf)
roof build-ups (warm roof / cold roof where relevant)
floor build-ups (suspended / solid / insulation strategy)
fire protection notes to structural elements
ventilation rates and extractor requirements
drainage route notes and ventilation requirements
stair geometry and guarding principles (where applicable)

These drawings are far more detailed than planning drawings and are designed to be used by builders n site.

How long does Building Regulations approval take?

Timescales vary depending on the Building Control provider and the submission route, but typically:

Full Plans: approval often takes 2–6 weeks depending on workload and complexity
Building Notice: no formal approval issued upfront, compliance checked through inspections

We strongly recommend Full Plans for most projects, as it gives greater certainty before construction starts and reduces risk of costly changes later.

Do I need Building Regulations if my project is Permitted Development?

Yes — very often. Permitted Development only relates to planning permission, not construction compliance.

Even if planning is not required, Building Regulations may still apply to:

structural alterations
loft conversions
extensions
garage conversions
insulation upgrades and thermal elements
drainage alterations
new openings and escape requirements

If you’re unsure, MyHomePlans can advise you before you start.

Ready for building control approval?

Yes — in many cases we can work from:

estate agent floor plans
existing PDF drawings
historic planning drawings
previous architect plans

However, for Building Regulations accuracy we may also require:

confirmation of wall thicknesses / structure type
floor-to-ceiling heights (approximate is often acceptable)
window/door sizes where critical
photos to verify construction type and layout

If the information is limited, we’ll confirm what is missing and the best way to proceed.

What if Building Control asks for changes or clarifications?

This is common, particularly on larger projects or where structural design is involved. Building Control may request:

additional notes or specification detail
clarification of insulation thickness / U-value strategy
fire safety compliance notes
ventilation calculations or extractor requirements
drainage arrangement confirmation
structural coordination confirmation

If queries are raised, MyHomePlans can assist with amendments and responses to keep the approval process moving quickly.

Will builders be able to price accurately from these drawings?

Yes — this is one of the biggest benefits of a Building Regulations package.

Building Regulations drawings reduce uncertainty by clearly defining:

construction build-ups and materials
structural beam positions (where applicable)
insulation requirements
key dimensions and compliance notes

This typically results in:
✅ more accurate builder quotes
✅ fewer “unknowns” and provisional sums
✅ reduced risk of cost increases during the build

Ready for building control approval?

Yes — this is one of the biggest benefits of a Building Regulations package.

Building Regulations drawings reduce uncertainty by clearly defining:

construction build-ups and materials
structural beam positions (where applicable)
insulation requirements
key dimensions and compliance notes

This typically results in:
✅ more accurate builder quotes
✅ fewer “unknowns” and provisional sums
✅ reduced risk of cost increases during the build

Do your drawings cover Parts A, B, L, F, H, K and M?

Yes — our drawing packages are prepared with the key Approved Documents in mind, including:

Part A (Structure)
Part B (Fire Safety)
Part L (Conservation of Fuel & Power / insulation)
Part F (Ventilation)
Part H (Drainage and waste disposal)
Part K (Stairs, guarding and protection from falling)
Part M (Access to and use of buildings – where applicable)

The exact requirements vary by project type and layout, and we tailor notes accordingly.

MyHomePlans is a professional online home design service, providing architectural design drawings, planning drawings, permitted development assessments, Lawful Development Certificate drawings, and building regulations packages — delivered 100% remotely.

Website Disclaimer: Information provided on this website is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or planning advice. Planning policy, permitted development rights, and building regulations may vary by location and are subject to change. Clients are encouraged to seek confirmation from relevant authorities where required.

Building Regulations – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

What Are Building Regulations?

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

Why Building REGs Drawings Are Needed

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

What They Cover

PLANNING VS BUILDING REGS (Quick Summary)

When You Need Them

need some help?

What They Are, What You Need & The Process

What’s Needed for Building Regulations Approval

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

2) Structural Calculations (Where Required)

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

3) Building Control Submission Route

1) Building Regulations Drawings (Technical Package)

3) Building Control Submission Route

The MyHomePlans Building Regulations Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 – Project Review & Information Collection

Step 2 – Technical Design & Compliance Planning

Step 3 – Production of Building Regulations Drawings

Step 4 – Coordination With Structural Engineer (If Needed)

Step 5 – Submission to Building Control

Step 6 – Approval & Construction Support

Full Plans vs Building Notice (Which Should You Choose?)

There are two main ways to apply for

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

There are two main ways to apply for

What We Need From You (Checklist)

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

There are two main ways to apply for

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Built for Compliance and Practical Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings – Fixed Fees

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

Building Regulations Drawings for Approval & Construction

✅ What’s Included in a MyHomePlans Building Regulations Pack

(Drawing Issue Checklist)

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

1) General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

2) Structural Layout & Coordination (Part A)

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

3) Foundation & Groundworks (Typical Details)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

5) Roof Construction Details (Part L / Weathering)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

4) Wall Construction Details (Part L / Moisture Control)

6) Openings, Lintels & Glazing Notes

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

8) Ventilation (Part F)

7) Fire Safety & Means of Escape (Part B)

9) Drainage & Waste (Part H)

9) Drainage & Waste (Part H)