Building Reg - leave the application open or get completion certficate for work done so far?

user1168934

A few months ago I started a small extension work for a new bathroom at the back of the house. I made the Building Regulations application and they have been inspecting the work done so far. The roof for this new extension was done recently and building control have inspected it yesterday.

With high prices for materials and labour as well a potential move to abroad next year, I am thinking that it is not worth spening more money to complete the bathroom and I would like to stop this work now. The extension shell is complete so may be I can use it as a shed/storage for now. While talking to the inspector yesterday he mentioned the possibility. I tried getting in touch with the inspector over the phone this morning but I could not so I don't know details on how this will be done and also if I will be asked to carry out more work.

As I understand the application is valid for 3 years. So it might also be an option to leave it open and do nothing. Is this a good option? Any downsides to leaving this application open?

In my mind I think I would prefer to close this application here and get a completion certificate for the work done so far. Does anyone have any prior experience of something like this? How do I go about doing this?

FYI - I do not plan to sell the property (even if I move abroad) but my remortgage is approaching next year.

FreeBear

It doesn't really matter what the space ends up being used as, so get the completion certificate now. If you don't, it will get forgotten about and cause problems when you need to sell.

One the work has started, there is no time limit on completion - The three year thing relates to planning and starting construction.

user1168934

FreeBear said:

It doesn't really matter what the space ends up being used as

Thanks for the reply.
Right now there is no electricity or heating in there. I am concerned that if I say it will be a bathroom in future they will ask me to get electrics, heating, plastering etc done now. On the other hand if I say it is just going to be a storage shed then I don't really need electrics or heating (possibly not even plastering). I just want to stop spending any more money on this project.
Am I overthinking this? or will they ask me to get these things done regardless?

Also is an open application going to cause any issues for the remortgage?

FreeBear

Wouldn't hurt to have a radiator in there just to keep the chill off and prevent condensation. As a bathroom, building regs would require an extractor. Your inspector may well accept a variation to change the usage to a storeroom, so negate the requirement for an extractor - Discuss with BC, and see what they say.

When plans change and funds become available, you can revisit using the space as a bathroom - Electrics should be done by a registered electrician, and he/she will (hopefully) ensure that things like extractors are covered by the certificates they issue.

jonnydeppiwish!

I had a 2.5 years from commencement to completing various works on my last bungalow - no issue at all with building control sign off. This included a 12 month break in between extensions to the rear and front.

Doozergirl

You can leave your application open for as long as you like.  I really don't see the point in trying to sign off something that isn't ready to be signed off.  You'll end up paying twice. 

user1168934

Thanks folks. Will an open application (unfinished work) cause any problems for the remortgage?

jonnydeppiwish!

user1168934 said:

Thanks folks. Will an open application (unfinished work) cause any problems for the remortgage?

I don’t recall being asked specifically about works being done. Don’t forget you’ll need to let your insurance company know you’re doing works