How to make an application for building work

There
are two methods of giving the required notice that you are going to
carry out building work.
The first is by the deposit of detailed plans
and specification of the work: this is known as "FULL PLANS". The
plans are checked in detail and, if satisfactory, an approval
notice is issued.
The second method is called "BUILDING NOTICE".
This type of application is a simpler procedure, but cannot be used
for commercial developments. Basic details and the relevant
fees are required. In this case plans are not checked and therefore
an Approval Notice is not issued. Instead, work is allowed to
commence with regular site inspections made at agreed stages of
construction.
Making an Application
A Full Plans submission should contain:
- Two completed Full Plans application forms.
Full Plans application form can
be downloaded below.
- Two copies of the detailed drawings of the
proposed building work. The plans should be drawn to a scale of not
less than 1:100.
- Two copies of a site or location plan drawn to a
scale of not less than 1:1250 upon which is shown the proposal,
site boundaries and the position of the public sewers.
- The appropriate fee. See Charging schedules.
- Applications can also be made online using
Submit-a-Plan.
Note:
Unlike the Building Notice the Full Plans Application will be
formally determined and an Approval will be issued.
A Building Notice submission should
contain:
- One completed Building Notice application form.
The Building Notice
form can be downloaded below. Also:
- If the proposal is for a new building or an
extension the Notice should contain a site plan drawn to a scale of
not less than 1:1250 upon which is shown the proposed site
boundaries and the position of the public sewers.
- Appropriate fee. See
Charging schedules.
Warning - delays can occur to the smooth
process of either type of application if the form is improperly
completed, unsigned or undated.
Do my neighbours have the right to object to what is proposed
in my Building Regulation application?
No. Whilst there is no requirement in the
Building Regulations to consult neighbours, it can be courteous to
do so. Objections may be raised under other legislation
particularly if your proposal is subject to approval under the Town
and Country Planning Acts.
Do I have to pay anything for the service?
Yes. A fee is payable to the local authority
unless the work is exempt. Allerdale Building Control Department
will advise you of the required fee, which will be subject to
VAT.
Is there any difference in cost between a Full Plans
Application and a Building Notice?
No. A Full Plans application involves a
two-stage payment, one when you submit your plans (Plan Fee) and
one following first inspection on site (Inspection Fee).