Well, let’s take a look at that statement at face value.
You might think you can do what you want to a property because you own it. The truth is that building and renovation works are regulated in the UK and in many other countries too. It is unlikely that anyone will come after you from wielding a paintbrush, but it pays to be aware of what your responsibilities as a householder are.
I am au-fait with the regulations in the UK, because that is where my experience lies and specifically England and Wales. However, this post is applicable to most people irrespective of their location in the world, although, wherever you are, it is important to check the rules and regulations in your own jurisdiction. Even in the relatively small land mass of the UK, the rules in Scotland are different to those of England and Wales. To make life even more difficult there can also be regional variances, so it always a good idea to check in the specific geographical area where your property is located.
In the UK, property renovations are governed primarily by the Planning Departments and Building Control. Planning departments and Building Control each have different responsibilities and both are covered by different regulations. Simplistically, Planning considers whether proposals are complementary to the local environment and gives permission (or not!) for work to proceed. Building Control establishes the technical detail and whether what you propose complies with Construction Standards and Building Regulations. When they are satisfied, you can get started but be mindful; not before!
The regulations are also subject to change from time to time – sometimes it seems that no sooner have you become familiar with the current regulations than there is a rethink, which can be driven by the adoption of the latest government policy. Usually there is some lead-in time though if your project takes some time to obtain its permissions, the original architect specification might be out of date before you start work. This can be frustrating not just because the plans and the specification needs to be altered but it can lead to having to re-work cost calculations.
