Exempt buildings checklist

Class 1

Buildings controlled under other legislation

Such as buildings subject to the Explosives Acts 1875 and 1923.

Class 2

Buildings not frequented by people

Such as a building used to house plant or machinery, such as an electricity sub-station.

Class 3

Greenhouses and agricultural buildings

Buildings whose main use is a greenhouse (including an agricultural building or a building used for the non-retail keeping of animals) provided it is situated away from living accommodation, and has a fire exit.

Class 4

Temporary buildings

Buildings erected for less than 28 days.

Class 5

Ancillary buildings

To obtain a certificate to prove that the work you have undertaken, or will be undertaking, is exempt from the Building Regulations fill in the Application for Exemption form (PDF, 85KB) (please note a small fee is payable).

Exempt building and improvement projects detail

Find more information on regulation requirements on the Planning Portal.

Exemptions from building regulations

Some works are exempt from the Building Regulations in full or from certain aspects (please note planning permission may still be required).

Technical Requirement Exemptions

These are judged by two approaches:

1. Parts A to K and M to Q are judged against seven classes set out in Schedule 2 of the Building Regulations. (see table below)
2. Part L is judged against criteria set out in Regulation 21 of the Building Regulations. (see overview below)

Classes 1 to 7

This is a broad overview - if you are undertaking any work please contact the Building Regulations team for detailed advice and support.