Retrospective Building Regs

DanAir

Before I start I must point out that I'm not here to invite criticism but to find the best solution for my predicament

I recently had my house renovated which involved removing chimney breasts, new bathroom, and new unvented hot water cyclinders together with the associated electrical wiring etc.

Now, I wasn't too clear on building regs at the time having never been involved in this type of work before and so I only applied to Building Control regarding the chimney breast removal as this was structural. However, my builder told me that I don't need to inform them about the other changes, which in retrospect seems to be completely wrong.

At the very least I will get the electrical work inspected by a competent electrician to confirm that it is safe. However I'm wondering how much hassle I'll be causing myself if I apply for retrospective approval from the local authority. To be fair the only part that is genuinely inaccessible is the electric underfloor heating. Would the council demand that I rip up the bathroom floor so that they can inspect? Other than that, how much trouble can they make? Does anyone have any experience?

Thanks in advance....

Debt_Free_Chick

I don't think that underfloor heating falls under local authority building control - but not sure

When was the work completed?

Electrical work can be signed off by a competent/qualified electrician or electrical engineer.

however, there could be much, much more that needs Building Regs approval e.g. soil pipes/drainage for new bathroom; ventilation etc.

I think you have two issues - electrical work, which does not involve Building Regs and other work, which does.

DanAir

Thanks D_F_C. I was under the impression that since '05 all but the most basic electrical installations required Building Regs approval under "Part P"?

Debt_Free_Chick

Yes - but the Part P certificate can be issued by an electrician, without the need to go through the Local Authority's building control (at least, that's my understanding).

However, I think you have other work i.e. non-electrical that, separately, needs sign off by the LA Building Control. At the very least, this would apply to the soil pipe for the loo in the new bathroom - but possibly much more.

Canucklehead

Good evening: Take a look at the house guide on the Planning Portal for info on all things related to building regulations etc...an excellent resource for the official lowdown http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/hhg/houseguide.html

HTH

Canucklehead