If you're unsure if you need building regulations approval please see:
Before you start work
It is illegal to start work without notifying us first. You might have to correct the work or pay a fine if you do not tell us about it.
You will also need a certificate of compliance if you want to sell your home.
If you don’t obtain a completion certificate it may void the insurance policy on the property. It is strongly advised you check this with your insurer.
Apply for building regulations approval
Apply for a building notice
For minor work on single family houses such as garage conversions, toilet installations and small extensions.
You don't need to submit any plans, but the Building Control Body may request compliance information under Regulation 13(3) of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended) at any time during the construction.
The person undertaking the works (or the applicant) are responsible for compliance, therefore, you must be confident that the work being carried out will comply with building regulations, and you risk having to rectify any issues or non-compliant works if the works after inspection are incorrect.
To apply, complete both the application and notes and checklist forms and return to buildingcontrol@wigan.gov.uk.
Apply for full plans submission
Submit detailed plans of the work you are doing that indicate compliance with the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended). It is more cost effective than a Building Notice and provided the approved drawings and any requirements are followed the construction should comply with the Building Regulations. To apply, complete both the application and notes/checklist forms and return to buildingcontrol@wigan.gov.uk.
Apply for Regularisation
I've already started work
If you started work without getting building regulations approval you must now apply (there will be an independently assessed charge).
The application will require compliance information under Regulation 18(2) of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended) which will include plans, specifications of the completed building work. It may also require the ‘laying’ open of any works to ensure compliance of the Building Regulations has been met.
The Building Control Body will issue you a certificate if it has met the requirements of the Building Regulations. If it doesn't meet standards you might have to correct the work or pay a fine.
Please note: You cannot get approval for any work completed before 12 November 1985.
Higher Risk Buildings
Higher Risk Buildings (HRBs) are defined in the Building Safety Act 2022 as a building that is at least 18 metres in height or has at least 7 storeys, and contains at least two residential units.
Applications for new HRBs, including those formed by a change of use, adding additional storeys, or if undertaking any major alterations to a HRB must be made to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) rather than the Local Authority Building Control Body or a Registered Building Control Approver (formerly Approved Inspectors).
The BSR is a division of the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and is now the Building Control Body for HRBs, as well as the regulatory body for the building control industry.
In addition, all existing HRBs, whether being altered or not, must be registered with the BSR.
Should Wigan Borough Council 's Building Control Department be requested to provide services on behalf of the BSR in relation to HRBs, the Authority will charge an agreed hourly rate recover costs.
The rate has been approved by the Authority’s S.151 officer and will apply to all HRB related work directed under the BSR and can be found in Wigan's Miscellaneous scale of charges, find further information on Building Control Charges.
Fees and payments