Building Regulation Architects
Ensuring Your Home is Safe, Compliant and Built to Last
Once planning approval is secured, the next step is to ensure your project meets the technical requirements needed to be built safely and legally. At ReFrame Studio, we prepare detailed Building Regulations drawings for homeowners undertaking extensions, renovations and new-build homes. We work with both Approved Inspectors and Local Authorities to guide your project through the approval process, developing fully coordinated technical information that complies with current regulations and supports a smooth transition from design to construction.
What Are Building Regulations Drawings?
Building Regulations drawings are detailed technical drawings that show exactly how your project will be constructed. Unlike planning drawings, which focus on the overall design, these drawings demonstrate how the building will meet current regulations - covering areas such as structure, insulation, fire safety, ventilation and drainage. They form the basis for approval and are essential for construction.
For larger or more complex projects, this information is developed further as part of our Tender & Construction Management service, forming a comprehensive technical package used for both Building Regulations approval and contractor pricing. By aligning these stages, we ensure the information issued to builders is clear, coordinated and buildable - supporting accurate tenders and a smoother, more controlled construction process.
Working with Approved Inspectors & Local Authorities
We work with both Approved Inspectors (Private Companies) and Local Authority Building Control to secure Building Regulations approval, guiding you through the process from submission to approval. Each route has its own benefits depending on the type and complexity of your project, and we can advise on the most suitable approach based on your priorities, programme and level of flexibility required.
We prepare and submit the full technical package on your behalf, liaising directly with the Building Control body throughout the process. This includes responding to any queries, providing additional information where needed and coordinating with consultants to ensure all aspects of the design meet current regulations.
Our experience working with both routes allows us to anticipate requirements early and address potential issues before they arise, helping to streamline approvals and avoid delays. This ensures your project progresses smoothly into construction with all necessary approvals in place.
Full Plans Application v Building Notice
There are two main routes to Building Regulations approval: a Full Plans application and a Building Notice. We will advise on the most appropriate option for your project, but in most cases we recommend the Full Plans route.
A Full Plans application involves submitting detailed drawings for review and approval before construction begins. This provides clarity and reassurance that the design complies with regulations, reduces risk on site and gives both you and your builder a clear, approved set of information to work from.
A Building Notice, on the other hand, allows work to start without prior approval of detailed drawings. While this can be suitable for smaller, straightforward projects, it carries more risk - as compliance is assessed during construction, which can sometimes lead to unexpected changes, delays or additional costs.
For most homeowners, particularly on larger or more complex projects, the Full Plans route offers greater certainty, better cost control and a smoother overall build process.
Building Regulation FAQs
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In most cases, yes. If you’re extending, renovating or building a new home, you will need Building Regulations approval to ensure the work meets current safety and performance standards.
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Planning drawings focus on the overall design and appearance of your project, while Building Regulations drawings provide the technical detail needed to construct it safely and in compliance with regulations.
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Starting work without approval is risky and not recommended. It can lead to delays, additional costs or issues when selling your property in the future.
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This can vary depending on the project and the approval route, but a Full Plans application typically takes a few weeks for review. We manage the process and keep you informed throughout.
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Retrospective approval (sometimes called regularisation) is when Building Regulations approval is obtained after work has already been carried out. This can happen if work was completed without formal approval at the time.
In these situations, Building Control will usually need to inspect the work, and occasionally some areas may need to be opened up to confirm how it has been constructed. While this process can take a bit more time and coordination, it is often possible to resolve.
Where possible, we always recommend obtaining approval before starting on site, as it tends to be simpler and more straightforward — but we’re also able to guide you through the retrospective process if needed.
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An Approved Inspector is a private company or individual authorised to carry out Building Regulations approval and inspections, as an alternative to the Local Authority. They perform a similar role — checking that your project complies with current regulations and carrying out site inspections during construction.
For homeowners, using an Approved Inspector can sometimes offer a more flexible and responsive service, depending on the project. We regularly work with both Approved Inspectors and Local Authority Building Control, and can advise on the most suitable option for your project.
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Building Regulations charges are fees paid to the Building Control body (either an Approved Inspector or Local Authority) to review your drawings and carry out site inspections during construction.
The cost will depend on the size and complexity of your project, but we will advise you on typical fees at the outset and help you choose the most suitable route. These charges are separate from our design fees and are usually paid directly to the Building Control provider.