Frequently Asked Questions




  • How can I contact the NHBC (National House Building Council)?
    You can contact them directly by phoning 0870 2414306.

  • What is the difference between Building Control and Planning?
    Building Control are concerned with the physical works on site in order to protect the health and safety of people in and about buildings. Planning (The Planning Department) control use of land, aesthetic appearance of proposed buildings and the general environmental affect on neighbouring properties.

  • Where can I buy or view a copy of the Approved Documents to the Building Regulations?
    Copies of the Approved Documents can be purchased from Her Majesty's Stationery Office (0870 600 5522) or through any good bookshop. They are available to view online and at your local library.

  • I require some technical guidance. When can I see a Building Control Surveyor?
    Building Control Surveyors are available at Seaclose Offices to give technical advice at the following times: 08:30 - 10:30 & 16:00 - 17:00 (16:30 Friday). No appointment necessary. However, it is advisable to phone in advance if you wish to see a specific individual.

  • What are the Building Regulations?
    The Building Regulations 2000 came into force on 1st January 2001. The function of the Building Regulations relates to the design and construction of buildings and the provision of services, fittings and equipment, in order to secure the health, safety, welfare and convenience of persons in or about buildings, and to conserve fuel and power.

  • What are the Approved Documents?
    The "Approved Documents" offer guidance as to how the Building Regulations can be satisfied. These documents tend to be quite lengthy, but are user friendly and are intended to assist everyone involved with the building operations. The Approved Documents are divided into differing parts recognisable by a prefix A - P. For example, Part A deals with structure, Part B with fire safety matters etc.

  • Who do I make my cheque payable to?
    All cheques in connection with Building Regulation Applications should be made payable to the ‘Isle of Wight Council’.

  • Can I view an archived Building Control application?
    Building Control records are not public documents and so access to plans is restricted. You will normally be asked to confirm what your interest in the property is, and a letter of consent from a third party (such as the original architect) may be required before permission to view the plans can be given.

  • What is an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) and where can I find out more information?
    An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives information on a building’s energy efficiency. From 6th April 2008 it will be law to provide an EPC for all new and newly built homes that are completed after that date. Sellers of some existing properties are also required to provide an EPC as part of their HIP (Home Information Pack).

  • How many copies of plans are required?
    In the case of a Building Notice, one set is required. In the case of a Full Plans application, two sets are required for domestic properties and three sets for non-domestic e.g hotels, shops etc. Three sets are necessary so that the Fire Officer can be consulted.

  • I require some advice in respect of disabled access. Does the Council have an Access Officer?
    No, the Council does not have an Access Officer. Queries of this nature should be directed to the local Building Control Surveyor.

  • Does the Council have an Access Officer?
    The Council does not currently have an Access Officer; however, the Building Control department may be able to assist with general enquiries in respect of access to buildings.

  • What is the Disability Discrimination Act 1995?
    The Disability Discrimination Act imposes, amongst other things, a duty on service providers to make reasonable adjustments to premises to avoid discrimination against people with disabilities. This applies to existing buildings as well as new premises from 1st October 2004. Further information is available from the following sources: The Disability Rights Commission - Tel. 08457 622633 Centre for Accessible Environments Tel. 02073 578182

  • Who enforces the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA)?
    Any person who considers that they have been discriminated against must bring a civil action against the persons responsible for the building. The DDA is not enforceable under Building Control legislation. Further information is available from the following sources: The Disability Rights Commission - Tel. 08457 622633 Centre for Accessible Environments Tel. 02073 578182

  • What is the Gas Safe Register?
    Gas Safe Register is the new hallmark for gas safety in Great Britain. From April 1st 2009, Gas Safe Register replaces CORGI gas registration as the official gas safety body. The Gas Safe Register will be operated by ‘Capita’. So, from 1st April, by law, only Gas Safe registered engineers should carry out work on gas appliances or installations in your home.

  • How do I obtain a copy of my Building Regulation Approval or Completion Certificate?
    You should apply in writing to the Building Control Department. Please provide as many details as possible i.e. approximate date, application number, type of work. A charge of £10.00 + VAT, per copy, is payable.

  • How much will it cost to submit a Building Regulation Application?
    The fee payable for a Building Regulation Application is based upon the type of work that you will be carrying out, but differs between domestic and non-domestic properties. For further information and to view our current charges please see the link below.

  • Are Building Control fees affected by the new VAT rate?
    Yes. Building Control fees will be adjusted up from 1st January 2011 to reflect the change in the VAT rate. All printed / online information available from 1st January will have been updated to reflect the new fees.