If I want to convert my home into a shop or office, will the building regulations apply?

 

Department: Environment Services
Division: Environment Services/Building Control

NO - The regulations do not define this particular change of use as 'material'.  However, if your proposed project involves work which will affect the structure of the building, the means of escape, and other fire precautions, or affect the access and facilities for disabled people, the regulations will regard your work as a 'material alteration' (and therefore 'Building Work'), which must then comply with the regulations.  You should also check with the local Fire Authority, usually the LFEPA (London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority), on 020 7587 4800, to see what 'on-going' fire precautions legislation (such as the Fire Precautions Act 1971 and/or the Fire Precautions (Workplace) Regulations 1997) will apply when the building is in use. 

Please note that you may require planning permission and you are advised to contact our planning team on 020 8753 1081 for planning advice before commencing any building work.