Building Regulation Drawings

As a Chartered Architectural Technology practice, we often get questioned whether or not Building Regulation drawings are required. Some clients try to save in the wrong places. It is true that not all projects legally require them; however, they’re crucial for ensuring compliance with Part A through Part R of the Building Regulations 2010 (as amended).

Building Regulation Drawings go far beyond basic architectural plans. They’re detailed technical documents that specify critical elements like:

• Structural calculations and beam specifications
• Foundation depths and construction details
• Thermal efficiency calculations (Part L compliance)
• Fire safety measures and escape routes
• Ventilation systems and condensation control
• Drainage layouts and connection details
• Sound insulation specifications for party walls
• Detailed section drawings at 1:20 scale

So why leave this to your builder on site? We understand your builder has built extensions over and over again, but that does not mean they are equipped to design the whole scheme. For example, 100mm thick insulation does not have the same U-value between each manufacturer; therefore, you’re ending up with a specification made up by a builder which may, down the line, cause many issues.

Through our extensive experience, we’ve found that even when Building Regulation Drawings aren’t legally mandated, they prevent costly errors and disputes. For example, a recent kitchen extension project saved our client £12,000 in potential remedial works because our detailed drawings identified a drainage issue before construction began.

if you’re planning a conservatory, don’t assume you’re exempt. Our 2025 guide to conservatory building regulations and planning permission breaks down when approval is needed and what drawings are required to stay compliant.

For MCIAT professionals, these drawings serve as a vital communication tool between architects, structural engineers, contractors, and building control officers. They form part of the building contract and can protect you legally if construction disputes arise.

While some might suggest basic drawings suffice for smaller projects, our professional experience shows that comprehensive Building Regulation Drawings typically reduce construction costs by 5-15% through improved material specification and elimination of on-site decision making.

• Unlike basic plans, our Building Regulation Drawings include:
• U-value calculations for all thermal elements
• Detailed cavity tray and DPC positioning
• Precise specification of fire-rated materials
• Structural engineer’s calculations integration
• Full material specifications to building control standards

The real question isn’t whether you need Building Regulation Drawings, but rather what level of detail will best protect your investment and ensure full compliance with current regulations.

Yes. We employ qualified professionals using the same software and standards as traditional practices. Often, our quality control is better due to specialized focus and systematic processes.

Established online services have track records of successful approvals, customer testimonials, and professional qualifications. We offer guarantees and ongoing support throughout the process.

Yes, we can assist with various aspects of the planning process, including permitted development assessments and planning applications where required.

Typically, we complete detailed building regulations drawings within 5-10 working days, depending on project complexity. This includes full plans, floor plans, and all required drawings for local authority building control submission. This is significantly faster than traditional architectural services while maintaining cost effective pricing.

Our self-survey process involves detailed questionnaires, photograph requirements, and measurement guides that allow you to gather all necessary information without requiring a site visit from our surveyor or architectural designer team. We will also visit your site to take measurment

Staircase regulations under Part K are complex, covering rise, going, pitch, and safety requirements. For comprehensive guidance on all aspects of domestic staircase compliance, see our detailed guide to UK staircase building regulations Part K.