Building control completion certificates: what homeowners need to keep
Know which evidence to request at the end of notifiable building work.
Applies to: England focus; building-control bodies, project categories and devolved rules differ.
Last checked: 16 October 2026
Key points
• Building Regulations approval is separate from planning permission.
• Completion evidence may matter for insurance, future alterations or a property sale.
• Agree who will deal with building control before work starts.
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Why it matters
GOV.UK describes how building control applications and completion certificates work for relevant projects. The route differs according to the project and which building control body is responsible.
Checklist before you start
• Identify the building control body and reference number at the start.
• Keep approved drawings, inspections, changes and test certificates together.
• Ask the contractor who arranges final inspection and resolves any outstanding issues.
• Keep the issued certificate or correspondence showing why an alternative route applies.
What to do next
If a certificate is missing, contact the responsible building control body before assuming work was approved. Retrospective regularisation may be possible in some circumstances but is not automatic.
Official sources
Use these official sources for the current detail that applies to your job, contract or location.
BuildPair provides general information and signposting, not legal, structural, electrical, gas or building-control approval. Requirements can change and the right answer depends on the work, contract, location and facts.
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