Q. Do I need Building Regulations to replace a window?
A. Yes, new regulations came into force in April 2002 meaning all replacement windows need to have Building Regulations, unless installed by a FENSA registered company or person. We recommend that the new windows contain sufficient openings for emergency exit and background ventilators and be no worse than the windows removed.
An information leaflet is available to download.
Q. Do I need to make a Building Regulation Application if I wish to re-cover my roof?
A. Yes, these are classed as works to improve the thermal performance of a thermal element, i.e. use of insulation and breathable felt for example, you will need to submit a notice to building control.
Q. What if my proposals involve building over or near a sewer?
A. When an application has been received by the Local Authority we will check the proximity of the development to any sewers, if necessary, a consultation will be sent to either Yorkshire Water or United Utilities who will then notifiy the Local Authority with any recommendations which will be fed back to the applicant or agent.
Q. Can I obtain copies of Building Regulations Approval Notices?
A. Yes, these are obtainable from these offices, there is a charge of £10.00 per Approval Notice, please send your request in writing along with a cheque made payable to Craven District Council for the relevant amount, please state the application number if known.
Q. How long is my approval valid for?
A. Full Plans are valid for three years from the date of approval and Building Notices are valid for three years from the date of receipt. If you still wish to carry out the work after the three years has expired then you will need to submit another application.
Q. What can I do if my neighbour builds over my boundary?
A. This is a civil matter between you and your neighbour. If you are aggrieved, we would suggest you discuss the matter with your neighbour in the first instance and should you be unable to resolve the problem, you should then seek legal advice from a solicitor. Your attention is also drawn to the Party Wall Act 1996.
Q. What happens if I haven’t applied for Building Regulations and the works have been completed?
A. Inevitably some work is carried out contrary to the Building Regulations where enforcement action needs to be taken. Wherever possible we will discuss these problems with you so that the work can be corrected quickly, with the least inconvenience to all concerned.Sometimes work is completed without our knowledge and requires retrospective approval. We will do all we can to help you, but you will need to submit an Application for a Regularisation Certificate and pay the appropriate fee. We will then inspect the property after all other stages have been completed and let you know if anything needs to be done for a Regularisation Certificate to be issued. Some parts may need to be opened up for inspection and we will advise you. We will try to keep this to a minimum.
Q. What are the Penalties for Contravening the Building Regulations?
A. If you contravene the Regulations by building without notifying the Local Authority or by carrying out work which does not comply, the Local Authority can prosecute. If you are convicted, you are liable to a penalty not exceeding £5,000 plus £50 for each day on which each individual contravention is not put right after you have been convicted. If you do not put the work right when asked to do so, the Local Authority have power to do it themselves and recover costs from you.