Retrospective Building Control Approval - 2x Internal Walls

Question

- I am purchasing a 3-bed semi-detached house built in the 1930s.
- Two internal walls have been removed.
(i) Kitchen to Dining room
(ii) Dining room to living room
- One of the walls is load-bearing.
- Sellers do not have Completion Certificates or any form of Building Approval, or any knowledge of when work(s) was done, but the latest one was done over 1.5 years ago.

Q. As the buyer, upon transfer of property, what tradespeople do I need in order to secure Retrospective Building Approval? Also, what are the estimated costs for this?

Andrew · Accepted Answer

As the buyer, it's great that you're considering securing retrospective building approval for the modifications made to the house. While I'm not a professional in this field, I can provide some general information to guide you. It's important to consult with local authorities and professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. Here are some steps you can consider:

1. Consult with a Structural Engineer: Engaging a structural engineer is crucial to assess the load-bearing wall and determine the necessary measures to ensure its stability. They can also provide guidance on any required structural modifications.

2. Contact a Building Surveyor: A building surveyor can review the property, assess the modifications made, and advise on the necessary steps to obtain retrospective building approval. They will also guide you through the application process.

3. Building Regulations Application: Based on the recommendations of the structural engineer and building surveyor, you'll need to submit a building regulations application to the local authority. This application typically includes detailed plans, structural calculations, and other required documentation.

4. Building Control Inspections: Once the application is approved, building control inspections will be conducted to ensure the modifications comply with current building regulations. These inspections may involve multiple visits at various stages of the work.

5. Costs: The costs associated with securing retrospective building approval can vary depending on factors such as the extent of the modifications, the area you live in, and the professionals you engage. It's advisable to obtain quotes from structural engineers, building surveyors, and any other professionals involved to get an estimate of the costs involved.

Remember, it's essential to consult with local authorities and professionals who can provide accurate guidance based on your specific circumstances. They will be able to provide more detailed information regarding the process and estimated costs involved in obtaining retrospective building approval for the specific modifications made to your house

Tefade · Answer

we can help you with the project we can come and do inspection and give your report if okay or give you report what would be required to make things okay . we might make small hole on the wall if required 
our fee would be 550. but you can also buy insurance for the two items and care on with the project with our engaging structural engineer if the other part accepts it

Kyriaki · Answer

Internal wall changes are not so much a planning issue. It is however an issue for the state of the property if they have compromised the structural integrity of the property. Another common issue can arise if this is an ex Council property as it becomes a license issue and you would have contractual responsibility with the Council to reinstate it.

Charles · Answer

There is a time limit that dictates whether you need to apply for retrospective planning permission -  known as the 4-year rule or 10-year rule.

This means that retrospective planning permission may not be required if these time limits have been reached although clarification may be required from a structural surveyor if you are concerned about the safety of the alterations

If you do want to assess the work for safety concerns prior to purchase you would need to employ a structural surveyor and thereafter if retrospective planning is required there would be other costs (normally around £400 application fee plus architectural drawings. Potentially expensive so unless you have safety concerns wait for the 4 year rule to kick in.

Retrospective Building Control Approval - 2x Internal Walls

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