Extensions and structural alterations
You’ll need Building Regulations approval for most extensions and any structural changes to your property. These types of projects often involve changes that affect the building’s safety, such as adding load-bearing supports, improving insulation, or altering ventilation and roofing.
Common examples include:
- Removing load-bearing walls and installing new beams
- Extending your home
- Adding new rooms
- Converting a carport into a garage
Are any extensions exempt?
Some small extensions may not need Building Regulations approval. To be exempt, they must:
- Be at ground level
- Have a floor area of no more than 30m²
- Fall into one of the following categories:
- A covered yard or covered way
- A carport that is open on at least two sides
- A conservatory or porch (only if separated from the main house by external-quality doors and the glazing meets Part K of the Building Regulations)
For full details on exemptions, visit our exemptions page.
Apply for building regulations approval
Planning permission
Check if your conversion project needs planning permission before starting work.