There are a range of types of buildings
and building work that are exempt from the Building
Regulations.
You can find out which work is
exempt by looking at the Interactive terrace and Interactive
house sections below.
Explore our interactive terrace for
guidance relating to flats, shops and basements as well as many
common householder projects, in England.
Interactive house
Explore our interactive
semi-detached house for guidance on many common householder
projects, including home microgeneration, in England.
Exemptions from Building Regulations
The Building Regulations 2000 (as
amended) set out the kinds of work that are exempt from the
Regulations.
NOTE: Some works may however
require Planning
permission.
The Building Regulations are made up
of procedural and technical provisions. Some works are exempt from
the whole of the Regulations, others are only exempt from certain
aspects. In respect of technical requirements the
exemptions are judged by two approaches:
- Parts A to K, M, N and P are judged against seven classes
set out in Schedule 2 of the Building Regulations. (see table
below)
- Part L is judged against criteria set set out in Regulation 9
of the Building Regulations. (see overview below)
Classes I to VII
Part L Exemptions
This overview has been provided as a
quick reference; you should refer to Regulation 9 for the
definitive source of information and, if you are in any doubt, seek
appropriate advice before commencing works.
Paragraphs 3, 4, 5 and 6 of Regulation
9 of the Building Regulations 2000, set out the exemption criteria
with regard to the Part L (Conservation of fuel and power)
requirements.
Broadly, the Part L requirements apply
to buildings, or extensions of such buildings (except those of
Class VII type (see above)), or the carrying out of any work to or
in connection of any such building or extension where the
building:
- is a roofed construction having walls; and
- uses energy to condition the indoor climate
However, the Part L requirements do not apply to buildings which
fall into the following categories:
- Certain buildings which are listed, in conservation areas or
are included in the schedule of monuments - where compliance with
the energy efficiency requirements would unacceptably alter their
character or appearance.
- Buildings which are used primarily or solely as places of
worship
- Temporary buildings with a planned time of use of 2 years or
less, with low energy demand
- Industrial sites, workshops and non-residential agricultural
buildings with low energy demand
- Stand-alone buildings other than dwellings with a total useful
floor area of less than 50m²
The meanings of some of the terms used above are explained in
the Building Regulations, therefore you should refer to the
Regulations or seek advice before commencing work.
The next steps
You will still need to consult with planning department to ensure that you do
not require a planning permission.
Building Control Fees
