What Happens When Your Plans Are Reviewed?
Preparing plans for a building project involves more than deciding how the finished development will look.
The proposed design must also address the relevant requirements of the Building Regulations.
For homeowners, architects and developers, Building Regulations plan checking is an important part of the Building Control process.
Complete Building Control Ltd (CBC) provides professional Building Control services, including detailed plan examination where required.
What Is Building Regulations Plan Checking?
Plan checking involves examining submitted drawings and supporting design information against the relevant Building Regulations requirements.
CBC’s Registered Building Inspectors work with architects, designers and other members of the project team to consider how the proposed development demonstrates compliance.
The exact matters requiring examination will depend on the type and complexity of the project.
What Areas Can Be Considered During Plan Checking?
Different projects present different Building Regulations considerations.
CBC’s published Pre-Application Advice information identifies several important areas that may need consideration, including:
- Fire safety
- Thermal requirements
- Disabled access
Other matters will depend on the proposed building work and the relevant Approved Documents.
The purpose of reviewing plans is to identify issues that may need further consideration before or during the Building Control process.
Why Is Early Plan Checking Useful?
Identifying a potential compliance issue while a project is still being designed can be preferable to discovering it once construction has started.
CBC works collaboratively with design teams to identify relevant Building Regulations matters and provide practical feedback.
This can help architects and developers consider possible changes before work progresses on site.
Early discussions are particularly valuable where a project has more complex design requirements.
What Happens with More Complex Projects?
Not every development can be assessed through a straightforward application of the guidance in the Approved Documents.
CBC’s Building Control service explains that the Building Regulations allow flexibility in how compliance may be demonstrated.
For more complex projects, CBC’s Registered Building Inspectors work with the design team to consider practical approaches where appropriate.
The aim is to assess how the design can demonstrate compliance with the applicable requirements.
Can You Discuss Plans Before Making a Building Regulation Application?
Yes. CBC offers a dedicated Pre-Application Advice service, subject to appointment instruction.
This gives architects and developers the opportunity to discuss a proposed development before submitting a full Building Regulation Application.
CBC can provide practical interpretation of the relevant Approved Documents and discuss potential issues affecting the design.
Depending on the circumstances, discussions can take place by email, telephone or meetings with the design team.
What Happens After the Plans Have Been Considered?
Plan examination forms part of CBC’s wider Building Control service.
Depending on the project, this can also involve statutory consultations with the relevant authorities, site inspections during construction and the completion process.
CBC works with the design and site teams to provide continuity throughout these stages.
When the project has been successfully completed and the necessary paperwork and certification are in order, CBC can issue the Final Certificate.
Building Control Support for Your Project
Complete Building Control Ltd provides Building Control services for domestic and commercial developments across its areas of operation in England.
Whether you are preparing drawings for an extension, renovation, adaptation or commercial project, CBC can discuss your Building Control requirements.
Learn more about our Building Control services or request a Building Control quotation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CBC offer plan checking?
Yes. CBC can undertake detailed plan examinations where required as part of its Building Control service.
Can architects discuss plans before submitting an application?
Yes. CBC provides Pre-Application Advice, subject to appointment instruction.
Are the same requirements considered for every project?
No. The relevant requirements depend on the type and complexity of the development.
Does Building Control finish after plan checking?
No. The wider process may also include statutory consultations, site inspections and completion certification.