For many homeowners and developers in Northumberland, navigating building regulations can feel like a complex and bureaucratic hurdle. But with the support of a local architect, the process becomes much clearer—and much smoother.
At Crawford Higgins, based in Hexham, we guide clients through every step of their building project, including compliance with the latest regulations. In this blog, we explain what building regulations are, why they matter, and how we help make the process hassle-free.
1. What Are Building Regulations?
Building regulations are a set of technical standards that ensure construction work is:
- Safe and structurally sound
- Energy efficient and sustainable
- Hygienic and accessible
They cover areas like insulation, fire safety, ventilation, drainage, electrical safety, and structural stability. Unlike planning permission, which is about how your building looks or fits in its context, building regulations deal with how it’s built.
2. When Are Building Regulations Required?
You’ll need to comply with building regulations for most construction projects, including:
- New builds and extensions
- Garage conversions and loft conversions
- Major internal reconfigurations
- Installing structural beams or removing load-bearing walls
Even some garden rooms, insulation upgrades, or window replacements may require approval depending on the scope.
3. Routes to Compliance
There are two main ways to gain building regulation approval in Northumberland:
- Full Plans Application – You submit detailed drawings and specifications, which are checked and approved before work begins. Ideal for larger or more complex projects.
- Building Notice – A faster, simpler route for smaller works, but with less pre-approval and more reliance on on-site inspections.
We typically recommend the Full Plans route, as it gives peace of mind and reduces the risk of delays or remedial work during construction.
4. How Crawford Higgins Supports Compliance
As your architect, we manage the building regulations process from start to finish. That includes:
- Producing detailed technical drawings and specifications
- Liaising with structural engineers for beam and foundation design
- Coordinating with energy assessors and ventilation designers if required
- Submitting the application to Northumberland Building Control or an approved inspector
- Answering any queries raised by inspectors
We also work closely with your builder during construction to ensure all elements are built to code.
5. Common Building Regulation Challenges (and How We Solve Them)
- Insulation standards: We design with thermal performance in mind from the outset, reducing heat loss and future bills.
- Fire safety: In lofts or multi-storey extensions, we help specify fire doors, smoke alarms, and escape windows that meet regulations.
- Drainage: We liaise with local authorities and civil engineers to ensure compliant connections and flow rates.
- Structural stability: We engage experienced engineers to detail all structural elements clearly and accurately.
6. Why Use a Local Architect?
Working with a local firm like Crawford Higgins means we’re familiar with:
- Northumberland County Council’s Building Control officers
- Local ground conditions and structural challenges
- Builders and tradespeople who deliver compliant work
This knowledge speeds up approvals and ensures a smoother construction phase with fewer surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I skip building regulations if I have planning permission?
No—planning and building regulations are two separate approvals. You must have both (where required) before and during construction.
Q: Who checks the work during construction?
Your chosen Building Control body (either the council or a private inspector) will make scheduled site visits to inspect foundations, insulation, drainage, and final fit-out.
Q: What happens if my builder ignores regulations?
You may be forced to redo work or face legal consequences. That’s why it’s critical to hire a professional team—including an architect and experienced builder—who value compliance and quality.
Final Thoughts
Building regulations are essential for protecting your safety, investment, and peace of mind. With an experienced, local architect like Crawford Higgins, you can be confident your project will meet every technical requirement—without the stress.
If you’re planning a project in Hexham, Corbridge, or the wider Northumberland region, we’re here to guide you through every stage, including full building regulations support.
