Industry News
Building regulations sign-off: how to get your completion certificate
The completion certificate is the document that proves your work meets building regulations. Without it, selling or remortgaging can become difficult. Here is how the process works.
Two routes to approval
You can use your council's building control service or a registered building control approver (the private-sector route). Either way, there are two main types of application for most home projects:
- Full plans: detailed drawings are checked and approved before work starts. Recommended for extensions and lofts.
- Building notice: work can start sooner, with compliance checked on site. It suits small, simple jobs, but risks costly changes later.
Inspections during the build
Building control inspects key stages, typically foundations, damp-proof course, drainage, structural steel and insulation, and the finished work. Your builder should give notice of each stage so nothing is covered up before it is inspected.
Competent person schemes
Some work, such as electrical installations (Part P), gas appliances (Gas Safe registered engineers) and replacement windows (for example FENSA), can be self-certified by registered installers. Keep those certificates with your completion certificate.
The completion certificate
When the work is finished and building control is satisfied, it issues a completion certificate (or final certificate). Keep it safe: conveyancing solicitors will ask for it when you sell.
What if work was done without approval?
Councils can consider a regularisation application for work carried out without approval, which may require opening up finished work for inspection. It is far easier to get it right first time.
Sources: GOV.UK: Building regulations approval; Planning Portal building regulations guidance.
Frequently asked questions
Who issues a building regulations completion certificate?
Your council's building control service or the registered building control approver that oversaw the work issues it once they are satisfied the work complies.
Can I get building regulations approval after the work is done?
Councils can consider a regularisation application for unauthorised work, but it may require opening up finished work for inspection.
