Retrospective approval
Sometimes, building work is done without approval. Problems can then arise when the property is sold. However, it’s possible to get retrospective approval.
We can consider appropriate works carried out and completed without the submission of plans and giving of notice. If the work was compliant with regulations applicable at the time then a regularisation certificate can be issued.
This power does not replace the enforcement powers already available to us and does not provide a shortcut for those who failed to follow the correct procedure.
Regularisation procedure
Regularisation is a procedure which property owners may follow where problems arise in the conveyance process. An owner is under no obligation to make an application for a regularisation certificate; equally, we are under no obligation to accept it. An application for a certificate can relate only to completed work. If the work carried out is within the timescale to take enforcement action, the submission of the regularisation application will not preclude the authority for taking enforcement action if it was considered appropriate to do so.
However, to assess whether compliance with building regulations has been achieved, we may need to carry out some intrusive inspections of the work and ask the applicant to expose work, such as foundations, drainage or roof works.
An application for a regularisation certificate can only be made when:
- The work started after 11 November 1985
- The work came within the scope of regulations, and
- No application was made at the time.
A completed application form and the relevant assessment fee must be received before any inspections can be made.
Contact us
We prefer enquiries to be emailed where possible.
Write to us: Leicester City Building Control, Phoenix House, 1 King Street, Leicester, LE1 6RN
Ring us: 0116 454 3160