Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Thinking DIY? Don't forget about building regulations.
Work to a building’s structure will often need to meet building regulations - and failing to get your improvements ‘signed off’ by the local authority will make it harder to sell your home.

West Wiltshire District Council’s building control section is now urging anyone planning to do home improvements this year to check what permissions are needed, if any, before work begins.

Building control manager Glyn Jackson said: “Extensions, alterations, conversions or any change of use to the property need to be checked out - there are also regulations in place for replacement windows and new electrics. Whether you do the work yourself or you employ a builder, you are responsible for complying with the regulations. It is therefore best to ask for advice first so you are certain what applies and how much the work will cost.”

Loft conversions cause particular problems, as homeowners don’t realise that building regulations must be complied with - standards are in place that specify the structural strength of the proposed floors, the stability of the structure including the roof, whether there is safe escape in the event of a fire, if there are safely designed stairs, and if there is reasonable sound insulation between the conversion and the rooms below.

Mr. Jackson said: “We can issue enforcement notices if procedures have not been followed. In addition, not having the required documentation for any work that has been done can delay and sometimes stop house sales from going through.”

The District Council has a series of leaflets concerning building regulations, and officers are always happy to give advice over the phone. Further details can be found at WWDC web site or call 01225 770321.