Building Regs Do More Than Prevent Bathroom Leaks

The word may be "regulations", but for those involved in the construction industry, the word is abbreviated to simply "regs". Those who work daily with building regs must know them backwards and forwards, for their very livelihood depends on their knowledge of the requirements and the proper application of that knowledge at the worksite. An understanding of building regs is almost as essential to the craftsman as is their grasp of their building skills. But what about me? All I want is for my shower to work.

Generally speaking, the purpose of building regs is to establish standards for construction projects in England and Wales that ensure the health and safety of persons who live and work in those structures that are constructed, as well as those who may be outside them. Further, these same regulations have as their purpose the preservation of access and freedom of movement by those persons with physical disabilities, and the insurance that energy used is both conserved and used wisely in the building's operations.

Persons who elect to do their own construction work are responsible for making sure that their work complies with building regs that may apply. For builders, this responsibility is usually theirs, but this is something that should be clarified before the project begins and that may prevent disagreements later on. Even so, it is the owner of the building that may ultimately be held responsible for work that does not comply with the regulations. So how do you know that the latest building regs may apply in your situation?

It's always best, they say, to start at the beginning, and the starting point for construction projects in the UK lies with the Building Control Service (or BCS). You and your builder will have the option of using either your local authority BCS or an approved inspector's BCS, which are private sector companies or practitioners who are approved for carrying out the work of the BCS as an alternative to the local authority. Regardless of your choice, be prepared to pay for their services, but you will also find that the BCS may offer helpful suggestions and advice before your work gets started. All Approved Inspectors are registered with the Construction Industry Council, which is designated by the government as a body for approving inspectors.

Not every building project, though, is subject to the provisions of the BCS. For example, if your project involves only the installation of services or fittings (such as certain types of drains, fuel burning appliances, replacement windows, water closets, and showers) and you employ an installer that is registered with a relevant scheme designated in the UK Buildings Regulations , you will not need to involve the Building Control Service. Remember, however, that these compromises apply only to specific types of installations and not necessarily to your entire project.

Regardless of whether or not the uk building regulations may apply to your specific project, there are a few of things that are very important to keep in mind before the work actually begins. First, although your project may not amount to 'building work' as defined in the building regs, it may very well be subject to other statutory regulations and could create a dangerous situation for yourself or others. While there are generally no requirements to notify your neighbors or get their approval for that outdoor pond you want to create in the garden, it's always a good idea to do so to prevent any bad feelings or, even worse, civil action that could end your project before it gets off the ground. Finally, carefully consider the site where you are planning to extend to or build upon. Find out whether it has any history of contamination, especially if it is on or near an open drain, an existing or previous landfill site, or in an area where there could potentially be a build-up of radon gas. There may be some extra costs for mitigating these potential hazards if you find them, but as the saying goes, "Those who fail to plan are really planning to fail."

Let's face it. Building regs can seem cumbersome, onerous, and as restrictive as a set of leg irons. But, just like the rules of the road, you will arrive at your destination safely and with peace of mind if you allow them to do the driving.

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